Movies are expensive. Books are expensive. Babysitters are expensive. Enjoying yourself can be expensive. But there are ways to maximize your entertainment dollar.

1. Movies

Netflix and Blockbuster are doing brisk business, but not all movies should be viewed on TV. While prices have gone up on matinees and second-run theaters, they’re still your best option. You frequently can avoid crowds and teenagers at movies run before 6 p.m.

2. Live theater

Local theater companies may allow audiences to watch dress-rehearsals for free. Sunday matinee prices are always cheaper.

3. Buy in bulk

Prices tend to be cheaper when you can buy in bulk. MeetUp groups are a great way to find other single folks, single parents and married couples who share your entertainment interests. You can search the MeetUp website by area of interest and location.

4. Coupons

Entertainment books contain coupons for movies, dining, etc. Buy the books online or at local outlets. Online and mobile coupons are readily available for restaurants and other attractions.

5. Game nights

Hundreds of group board games are now available and have become hugely popular in recent years. “Settlers of Catan” is an excellent example. In this game, players try to be the dominant force on the island of Catan by building settlements, cities and roads. One of the most popular games is “Nuns on the Run,” in which players explore an abbey at night. BoardGameGeek is the clearing house for all things related to board games, including a forum divided by regions. You can find an already existing group or post about starting a group.

6. Community events

Subscribe to your local city, county and library newsletter lists for upcoming community events. Community calendars often list events that are either free or very cheap.

7. Cheap fare at the fair

Festivals offer inexpensive opportunities for a wide variety of reasons. Look for details on festivals for Cinco de Mayo, Native American powwows, sustainable-living fairs, art events, etc.

8. Public libraries

Modern libraries offer so much more than traditional books. If you commute, you’ll find audio books to entertain you. Children’s storytimes and movies are available, but many libraries have more adult offerings, such as travel lectures, historical re-enactments and poetry slams.

9. Pick-your-own farms

Pick-your-own farms allow you to pick fresh fruit and vegetables. Some farms will have corn mazes, hayrides, face painting and other family-friendly activities.

10. Treasure Hunts

Letterboxing is great for kids. Players with notebooks and stamps search for small boxes hidden in public places, each containing a notepad, ink pad and stamp. The idea is to follow clues and, when you find the box, stamp your notebook with the stamp in the box and stamp the notebook in the box with your stamp. Learn more at Letterboxing North America. Geocaching is a high-tech treasure hunting game played globally by adventure seekers with GPS devices (available as downloadable apps). The basic idea is to locate containers hidden outdoors, called geocaches, and share your experience online.