The Cost Of: February break
Many families opt to entertain kids locally during February break, but even that can be costly.
February break doesn't necessarily mean down time if you have active kids looking for fun filled days. Many families opt for local entertainment, but even that can be costly.
Marshal Cohen is the Chief Retail Analyst at Circana and says there has been an increase in "staycation" activity since COVID. While it is not as pricey as a plane ticket and trip, he acknowledges staying put can still add up.
"It's almost like a novelty to go to a movie today and that will run you $11.50 on average per person for ticket kids get in for less. Then, of course, you've got to get the refreshments and those actually cost more than the ticket," said Cohen.
If you like being in the action more than watching it on the big screen, there are plenty of nearby options to please parents on a budget and kids with cabin fever.
"One of the things to take advantage of during the February break is go to some of the recreation centers, whether it's a trampoline park or an indoor baseball batting range, even indoor miniature golf," said Cohen. "Those run, on average, about $15 per person. So it's definitely an affordable way to spend some fun family time together."
With all the fun you have there, it may be tempting to indulge in the yearlong or season pass. Cohen says the math only works there if you are committed.
"I always find that unless you really are planning on utilizing that season value going by more than three or four times, it's better to pay by day than it is to pay for a yearly pass."
That is his also his advice for budgeting for your staycation. Take it day by day and dollar by dollar.
