There’s no question that going “out to the movies” can be an expensive proposition. Nationwide, the average cost of an adult movie ticket is about $7.25 ($12.00 in major urban areas). Figure in the cost of a box of popcorn and a soda at your typical highway robbery concession stand, and it’s no wonder that anyone on a budget must consider a rental DVD or—gasp!—network television as a more responsible entertainment alternative.
But sometimes you want to see a current hit movie you can discuss with your friends, or you just want to get out of the house. If so, here are some ways to save money and still enjoy the theatrical movie experience:
* Go to Matinees. Most theaters offer discount prices for late morning and early afternoon shows. Some theaters even keep these discounts in effect until 5:00 or 6:00 p.m. Discounts can be as much as 30 to 40 percent off the cost of a regular evening ticket.
* Buy Discount Tickets in Advance. Membership warehouse chains like COSTCO often sell discount-priced movie tickets that can be used at any time, even on opening weekends of major blockbusters. Discount-priced tickets are also available through the Entertainment coupon book service, available in most major cities. The only catch with these sources is you have to pay $40 or so to join the warehouse store or buy the coupon book, so unless you’re planning to use these sources for other purchases—or you see a lot of movies—it may not be worth the investment.
* Join Theater “Frequent Buyer” Clubs. Today, many major theater chains offer free “club cards” you can use when you buy tickets, cards that build points toward free or deeply discounted drinks, popcorn, candy and even movie tickets. Keep a close eye on any special or short-term discounts these cards may offer as well.
* Locate Any “Second-Run” Theaters in Your Area. Some communities have “second run” or “discount” theaters that show movies that have already been out for two or three months, but have yet to be released on home video. Tickets at these theaters tend to run just a few bucks, as most of the theater’s profits are—as in all movie houses—made at the concession stand. Which brings us to our last cost-saving tip…
* Bring Your Own Snacks. Concession stand food and drinks are outrageously expensive, and can easily account for 50% or more of the movie experience cost. Bringing your own snacks can save you a small fortune, especially if you like to go to the movies frequently. (A bag of nuts or munchable candy is easily stored in a jacket pocket or purse…popcorn not so much.)
Just because you’re on a budget doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy an occasional night out at the movies. A little advance planning can save you big bucks at the big screen!
