LEAVE YOUR WALET AT HOME TONIGHT

FIVE IDEAS FOR A FREE DATE:

#1.) ART GALLERY. Art gallery openings are often open to the public . . . and checking out big-ticket art won't FEEL free. The galleries usually serve free wine and snacks, and all the different art pieces will give you plenty to talk about afterwards.

#2.) WATCH AMATEUR SPORTS. Little leagues, local schools, and amateur sports leagues usually don't charge for spots in the bleachers. You can liven things up by making bets on little things like what the score will be by halftime, or which team will kick the first field goal.

#3.) HEAD OUTDOORS. Parks and other outdoor spots offer space to hang for free. So find out your date's favorite outdoor activity, whether it's hiking, frisbee, or just going for a stroll, and center your date around that.

#4.) COOKING COMPETITION. Restaurants can quickly cut into your paycheck, so try this cost-free alternative: both of you have to dig through the fridge and kitchen cabinets and concoct a meal based on whatever you find.

#5.) PLAY BOARD GAMES. With the right opponent, a few heated rounds of cards, chess, or Scrabble is more fun than going out. You can see whether your date has any brains, or show off your own, and get a sense of how the two of you handle competition. (Happen Magazine)