Summer fun that doesn't break the budget

Summer fun doesn't have to mean expensive vacations or costly outings. In this episode of Life Kit, host Mariel Segata shares a collection of low-cost or free ideas for enjoying the season, drawing on insights from positive psychology coach Emma Tempest, freelance writer Nicole Dow, and several Life Kit producers. The core message is that you can have fun almost in spite of constraints like money or time if you put your mind to it. The episode offers concrete suggestions organized by category—outdoors, arts and crafts, food, and miscellaneous—each grounded in the psychology of play, imagination, and social connection.

The Outdoors: Parks, Penny Dates, and Citizen Science

The episode begins with the simplest and most accessible option: public parks and beaches. You can fly a kite, ride a bike, or host a picnic. Life Kit producer Margaret Sereno describes gathering with friends in New York parks, laying out blankets, hammocking, snacking, crafting, and reading—a low-cost, hours-long social event. For a more active group outing, consider a field day with three-legged races, egg-and-spoon contests, or water balloon tosses.