5 Ways to Save Money at the Movies

This article originally appeared on December 8, 2008.

MOVIE MONDAYS IN DECEMBER #1

My husband and I enjoy going to movies together, and try to make it out a couple times a month. Unfortunately, at nearly $20 just for tickets to a single show, and another $10 for food, the cost becomes somewhat prohibitive. Fortunately, there are many ways to save a little $$ when going to the movie theater.

Here are a few of the things we try, generally using these tips you can reduce the cost of going to the movies by over half, and it doesn’t have to involve sneaking in food in your purse or coat

1. Go to a matinee or a super matinee – you can save a couple dollars by going to an earlier showing or the first showing of the day, even on the weekends.
2. Join the theater’s club – Some theaters offer an MVP card: every time you purchase tickets or goods at the concession stand, points are added to the card. These points can then be redeemed for discounts and freebies. Check with your theatre.
3. Don’t be ashamed of your age – many theaters offer discounts for students up to 22, children, and seniors.
4. Discount, Dollar, or Cheap theaters – these theaters show movies usually a month after disappearing from the regular theaters, but at a discounted price.
5. Discount days – Wednesday’s seem to be a favorite around here. I’ve seen $1 admission at the cheap theatre and free 46 ounce popcorn at another theatre.

Stay tuned for more, or subscribe, because I’ll be posting more tips in the coming days!