DCP provides tips to save on entertainment and recreation costs
Secretary Robert J. Rodriguez says there are countless free and affordable entertainment opportunities in New York state, and these creative tips show New Yorkers that people can cut down on spending and have fun.
“When saving money and sticking to a budget, entertainment expenses are typically one of the first places consumers look to cut back,” said Rodriguez. “There are countless free and affordable entertainment opportunities in our state, and these creative tips show New Yorkers that you can cut down on spending while still having a good time.”
New York state has many opportunities for free entertainment. Explore things to do throughout New York state with the I LOVE NY website, or download the mobile app for great activity ideas, including special sections dedicated to Winter in New York and celebrating Black History Month.
Check with your community for free events
Many counties, cities, towns and villages offer community movie nights, music in the park, recreation programs or other seasonal free community events.
Check out the New York State Fair
The first fair in the nation. Every year, New Yorkers come together to experience an affordable, 13-day celebration of delicious food, eye-opening agriculture exhibits, strolling performers, concerts and great family fun. The event also showcases thousands of animals and dozens of big-name entertainers. The 2023 Great New York State Fair kicks off Wednesday, Aug. 23 and continues through Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 4. Admission tickets are $6 for adults, and children (13 years old and younger) and senior citizens (adults 65 years and older) are admitted for free every day. Plus, there are also free days for special groups on select days.
Find a local county fair or food festival near you
All over New York state, you will find numerous local events that offer a variety of fun-filled activities – packed with amazing food, rides, parades, live entertainment, crafts and more. Enjoy a day filled with amazing attractions that won’t break the bank.
Connect to nature
Visit any of the 250 New York State Parks, historic sites, recreational trails and boat launches, or the millions of acres of public lands managed by the Department of Environmental Conservation that offer a variety of entertainment opportunities for all ages and interests. There are plenty of outdoor activities all year round (hiking, camping, boating, birding, etc.), nature centers, programs for the kids and more.
Visit museums
New York state has some of the world’s most iconic museums. Some museums offer free admission every day or on specific days. Some also offer events, festivals and concert series that are free in the summer or throughout the year.
Check out the library
Libraries offer a wealth of items that New Yorkers can borrow, ranging from movies, music and videogames to free or discounted entrance passes to local museums and attractions. Additionally, there are often free events held at libraries, including workshops, computer classes and more. New Yorkers can also get free access to LinkedIn Learning (formerly Lynda.com) with a NY Public Library account, which offers thousands of online educational courses and tutorials taught by industry experts in software, creative and business skills.
Enjoy your next vacation camping
New York’s 118 state campgrounds offer the perfect spot for a family getaway or reconnecting with friends. Located among some of the most breathtaking settings in North America, New York state campgrounds are an affordable vacation option for campers seeking variety, value and a place to create special memories that last a lifetime.
“DEC invites New Yorkers of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds to experience nature and the outdoors on our shared state lands,” said DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos said. “With five million acres across the state that include campgrounds and education centers, wildlife management areas, state forests, boat launches and fishing sites, DEC lands, waters and facilities offer everyone the opportunity to relax, rejuvenate and recreate.”
“With more than 250 state parks, historic sites, trails, and boat launches, New York state has something for everyone, and most are near where you live,” New York State Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Commissioner Erik Kulleseid said. “We encourage you to visit all there is to offer during any season – whether taking a simple stroll, hiking, camping, boating, visiting a playground or learning how New York has shaped our historic landscape. You’ll find these excursions to be rewarding and cost-effective for you and your family, and we know you’ll keep coming back.”
About the New York State Division of Consumer Protection
The New York State Division of Consumer Protection provides resources and education materials to consumers on product safety, as well as voluntary mediation services between consumers and businesses. The Consumer Assistance Helpline 800.697.1220 is available Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., excluding state holidays, and consumer complaints can be filed at any time at dos.ny.gov/consumer-protection. For more consumer protection tips, follow the Division on social media at Twitter: @NYSConsumer and Facebook: facebook.com/nysconsumer.
Follow the New York Department of State on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for “Tuesday’s Tips” – practical tips to educate and empower New York consumers on a variety of topics. Sign up to receive consumer alerts directly to your email or phone here.