fun

July 14th is Cow Appreciation Day at Chick-fil-a!

Abby H.

Are you ready? Cow Appreciation Day at Chick-Fil-A is coming up on July 14th! The kids love it, so we are prepping to go. You can check out my past post here on how to DIY a quick costume using items you may already have around the house.

Every customer who dresses like a cow can receive one free entrée from the following list, subject to availability*:

Breakfast: Chick-fil-A® Chicken Biscuit (Original) or 4-count Chick-n-Minis®.
Lunch/Dinner: Chick-fil-A® Chicken Sandwich (Original or Spicy); 8-count Nuggets (Original or Grilled); or 3-count Chick-n-Strips.
Kids: A 5-count Nuggets Kids’ Meal (Original or Grilled), which includes a side, drink, and premium.

Please check with your local Chick-fil-A to confirm participation.

7/3/2026 Weekly Freebies and Deals

Abby H.

This week was pretty chill- Lots of time on my weighted hula hoop, finished my sewing “in-box”, altered shorts for my youngest, and fixed some holes in shirts.

And we’ve been eating a lot of shaved ice. If you are looking for a good electric shaved ice machine, this is the one. 

My Birthday Freebie list can be found here. The list mostly offers what you can find in Southern California.

If you live outside Southern California, check out this list: Free Birthday Stuff: Get The Best 100+ Freebies on Your Birthday!

Looking for some summer fun for you and the kids? Here is my list of frugal fun activities in San Diego County.

For free food resources, please refer to my comprehensive list, available here.  It is focused on San Diego County, but additional resources are available outside my area.

Freebies

FREE Sample of Cat Years Lickable Treats
FREE Planet Fitness Summer Pass for Teens
FREE Pizza Hut Pan Pizza with the Book It Program
FREE $25 at IKEA After Cash Back
FREE Smackin Garlic Parm Sunflower Seeds at Love’s Travel Stops
FREE Good & Gather Samples, FREE LoveShackFancy Tote Bag & More at Target
FREE Snack Product with Rebate – Up to a $21.99 Value
FREE Handcrafted Drink Every Monday at Capital One Cafe
FREE Zicam Allergy Relief Nasal Spray
FREE Amazon Prime for Students
FREE Full-Size Essential Canine Healing or Grooming Product
FREE Dog Toys
Fourth of July Freebies, Deals & More
FREE Reward Every Week with Panda Express Wok Wednesday
FREE Wireless Zone & TCC Backpack & School Supplies Giveaway on July 26th
FREE 6 pc. Chicken Rings at White Castle
Get Free Beauty Samples in the Mail From La Roche-Posay, Dove, Hermes, Giorgio Armani and Others
2 FREE Movie Tickets to Young Washington
FREE Sample of Elta MD UV Skin Recovery SPF 50
FREE Bug or Safari Animal Magnet Craft Kit at JCPenney + 10% Off Coupon
FREE Go Kart Workshop at Home Depot
FREE Full-Size Mochi Love Mini Clouds
FREE Fan Fanatics Banners & Bracelets Craft Event at Michaels
FREE NeilMed Sinus Rinse Kit or NasaFlo Neti Pot
The Best Free Skincare Samples to Request Right Now
FREE Star-Spangled Biscuit at Hardee’s
FREE $10 Off at JCPenney – Today Only
4 FREE Frozen Drinks at Casey’s Every Friday
FREE $20 Credit at Finish Line
FREE Sample of Pedigree Pouches Dog Food & Drizzlers Savory Sauce
Save Big on the Latest Titles with the 30-Day FREE Kindle Unlimited Trial (Lots of Titles! $12/mo Value)
FREE Stars & Stripes Sprinkle Cookie at Great American Cookies for Military & Veterans on July 1st – 4th
FREE Sample of Thayers pH Balancing Cleanser
FREE Beach Bucket Toy Set at Lowe’s on July 4th
Get Free Magazine Subscriptions: No Credit Card Needed
FREE Solo Cups & Lids, Olipop, Lip Oil & More for Target Circle 360 Members
2 FREE Retro Mini Prints at Walgreens
FREE MyLowe’s Money Day Giveaway at Lowe’s on July 11th & 12th
FREE Maxx Action Back-to-School Party Pack
FREE Bloomingdale’s Little Freebies Box
FREE $5 in Groupon Bucks – 1st 200,000
FREE Ice Cream Cup or Cone at Haagen-Dazs
Free Kids’ Magazines: A Gateway to Fun and Learning

Deals

Subway BOGO Deal: New Subway Coupons for July
Amazon Basics 2-Ply Paper Towels 12-Rolls ONLY $11.92 (Reg $23)
July 4th Clearance: Up to 70% Off
Oasis Beach Towels From $10.49 w/ Coupon (Reg $30)
SKIMS Discount Codes & Coupons: Up to 30% Off an Order of Panties, Bras and Shapewear
Wicked Caboodle ONLY $14.99 at ULTA (Reg $30)
H2OGO! Kids Tropical Outdoor Inflatable Mega Bouncer ONLY $148 (Reg $300)
School Supplies From 25¢ at Target
4th of July Clothing at Walmart – Prices as low as $1.00
20 Budget-Friendly Lululemon Dupes on Amazon That Perform Just as Well
Up to 75% Off Outdoor Furniture at Wayfair + Free Shipping
School Supplies as low as $0.35 Shipped at Walmart
Prime Members Save 50¢ Per Gallon on Gas – From July 2 Through July 5
Macy’s up to 70% Off Clearance
Yoo-hoo Chocolate Drink 40-Pack ONLY $10 on Amazon
Michael Kors Marilyn Medium Signature Tote Bag ONLY $67.32 (Reg $358)
Paper Mate Pink Pearl Large Erasers ONLY $5.90 (Reg $14)
All The Best Subway Coupons and Promo Codes: New for July 2026
The Best Handbag, Purse & Clutch Deals on Sale: Michael Kors, Kate Spade, MKF Collection & Coach Up to 84% Off
Coziest Pajama Coupons and Deals This Week from Macy’s, Kohl’s, Amazon, Walmart and More
JCPenney 4th of July Sale Up to 50% Off + Extra 30% Off w/ Coupon
Wonder Nation Backpacks ONLY $4.97 at Walmart

6/26/2026 Weekly Freebies and Deals

Abby H.

This week was incredibly busy for me. I delivered costumes for a play I partially costumed.

I also tie-dyed some cool stuff, worked through my alterations pile at home, and got back into using my weighted hula hoop.

My Birthday Freebie list can be found here. The list mostly offers what you can find in Southern California.

If you live outside Southern California, check out this list: Free Birthday Stuff: Get The Best 100+ Freebies on Your Birthday!

Looking for some summer fun for you and the kids? Here is my list of frugal fun activities in San Diego County.

For free food resources, please refer to my comprehensive list, available here.  It is focused on San Diego County, but additional resources are available outside my area.

Freebies

FREE FIFA World Cup Scarf at Home Depot on June 27th
FREE Skin Checks for World Skin Health Day on July 8th
FREE Handcrafted Drink Every Monday at Capital One Cafe
How to Score Sticker Freebies – Sticker Mule, Keds, Netflix and More
FREE 2027 Limited-Edition American Diabetes Association Calendar
FREE Full-Size Belle Aroma ScenTrio Petite Wax Warmer
FREE Beach Bucket Toy Giveaway at Lowe’s on July 4th
Get Free Samples by Mail: List of Legitimate Freebies & Free Samples From Brand Name Companies
FREE Sample of Zesty Paws Dog Supplements
FREE Coca-Cola or Levi’s Koozie Giveaway & More at Target
FREE Fourth of July Collection Donut at Krispy Kreme
FREE Vicks DayQuil & NyQuil Cold & Flu Medicine
FREE Stars & Stripes Sprinkle Cookie at Great American Cookies for Military & Veterans on July 1st – 4th
FREE Grabie Craft & Create Party Pack
FREE EXIT: The Enchanted Forest Party Pack
FREE Creed Aventus Fragrance Sample
FREE Copy of the Jiffy Mix Recipe Booklet
4 FREE Frozen Drinks at Casey’s Every Friday
FREE Frazil Slushie Every Friday in June
FREE $15 on Saltair Items at Target After Cash Back
FREE Fragrance Samples from Macy’s
FREE Original Glazed Donut at Krispy Kreme on July 4th
FREE Sample of Peak Health Digestive Enzymes Supplements
FREE Reward Every Week with Panda Express Wok Wednesday
FREE $25 at CVS After Cash Back
Here Are 6 Ways To Get Free Baby Formula Samples
Get Tons Of Free Stickers Online: Updated Monthly
FREE 6 Months of Amazon Prime for Young Adults Trial + Tons of Free Perks
4 FREE MiLB Tickets for Military, Veterans & USAA Members
FREE Olight Keychain Flashlight + FREE Shipping
FREE 15-Day Riversol Skincare Kit + FREE Shipping

Deals:

Get 50% Off an Annual Walmart+ Membership
Mario Badescu Lip Mask ONLY $7 (Reg $14)
Target Deal Days – Big Savings for Circle Members | Ends Tonight!
Wavytalk Dual Voltage Hair Dryer Brush ONLY $36.98 on Amazon (Reg $60)
Ryobi ONE+ 18V Cordless 3/8 in. Drill/Driver Kit ONLY $39.88 at Home Depot (Reg $139)
Walmart Deals & More – BIG Savings on Kitchen, Electronics and More!

Tryazon- New Crafting Opportunity with Grabie Art!

Abby H.

I’ve been a fan of Tryazon for about 7 years. It’s an amazing company that works with manufacturers of toys, games, food, and recreational/sporting goods. Manufacturers supply their goods to consumers to try out and review for free.

The kids and I have received toys, games, craft kits, and art supplies to test and have fun with.

Right now, Tryazon has a fun toy sampling opportunity to apply for!

Bring home over $250 worth of art supplies and kits with this Tryazon Featured Party opportunity, from Grabie Art! The idea for Grabie started during the pandemic when they experienced the healing powers of creative expression through art. Grabie is dedicated to creating supplies that are fun, innovative, accessible, and supportive for mental health. This party pack includes a wide variety of engaging art projects with everything needed to create a finished project. Art kits include: Magnet Painting Bundle, Drop to Puff 3D Sponge Kits, Mini Diamond Art Cards, Wood Painting Kits, and Shrink to Sparkles Craft Kits! Get creative with Grabie Art this summer!

Tryazon has 100 hosting spots open for this opportunity! Those selected get to receive a party pack for free with a variety of Grabie Art Kits to share with friends and family!

Learn more and apply here.

Have a Fun, Frugal Daycation with ResortPass!

Abby H.

Are you looking to try something new without packing the family up for the weekend and heading out of town or spending a ton of money?

I recently discovered ResortPass through a friend who was telling me about their “daycation”.

They got a Day Room, and for less than $250, the family got access to the pool (which included water slides!), a room to shower/relax in. It sounded amazing!

Whether you want to relax poolside, rent a cabana, or get a day room, there are all sorts of hotels and resorts worldwide that are part of ResortPass.

LEGO® Life Magazine – FREE Subscription

Abby H.

This is my kids’ favorite freebie- EVER. Both of my kids received this magazine for YEARS.

And this freebie is available again! Sign up and receive FREE LEGO® Life Magazine subscription.

    • Perfect for kids aged 5-9, this printed magazine is sent directly to your home five times a year. Completely free of charge.
    • Each issue is packed full of cool activities, fun comics, creative builds, posters, and so much more.
  • Featuring all your child’s favorite LEGO® sets and characters.

Stress Free Kid’s Parties at Michaels!

Abby H.

Y’all know I love a craft party. And my kids are no different. They love to create stuff and express their creativity in different ways.

I found out this morning that you can host your kid’s birthday party at Michaels. All of the fun and creativity without any of the mess.

Starting at $149, you get:

  • 2 Hours
  • 8 Guests (including Guest of Honor)
  • All project supplies
  • A dedicated space that’s perfect for crafting and hosting
  • Team Member to lead craft activities

And right now they have three different party themes:

Beads and Bag Charms– Come make cute bracelets and bag charms for the perfect accessories.

 

Paint Party- Join our colorful paint party. Use stickers, gems, and other popular templates to create unique art.

 

Tie Dye Party- Come create your own custom tie dye. All the fun, none of the mess. Then make a stack of bracelets to fit the color scheme of your shirt.

 

To me, this is the perfect party for kids that may be too big for indoor play places, or who are not interested in bowling or arcades. The cost starts at about $18 per guest and includes something for them to take home.

Two hours is a great amount of time for a party, and gives you time to create, have snacks, and cake, and then you’re done!

I’m considering this for my youngest kid’s birthday party next year.

And if you are looking for some fun, free crafting and creating events for you or your kids this summer, check out Michaels Kids Club and Makebreak events here.

 

Tryazon- New Strategy Game Night Opportunity from Roxley!

Abby H.

I’ve been a fan of Tryazon for about 7 years. It’s an amazing company that works with manufacturers of toys, games, food, and recreational/sporting goods. Manufacturers supply their goods to consumers to try out and review for free.

The kids and I have received toys, games, craft kits, and art supplies to test and have fun with.

Right now, Tryazon has a fun toy sampling opportunity to apply for!

 

Get ready to elevate your next game night with this Tryazon Featured Party opportunity featuring Skyrise from Roxley Games – a stunning strategy game where players compete to build a breathtaking city in the clouds. Through clever bidding, tactical placement, and a little bluffing, you’ll shape the skyline while pursuing secret objectives and earning the favor of the city’s patrons.

If your group enjoys strategic decision-making, friendly competition, and gorgeous tabletop experiences, this is one opportunity you won’t want to miss!

They have 75 hosting spots open for this opportunity! Those selected will receive a free Roxley Games party pack to sample and play with friends and family.

Learn more and apply here.

 

6/12/2026 Friday Freebies and Deals

Abby H.

It’s officially summer break! WOO HOO!

Today is our “day of sloth”. I’m not doing much- just catching up on laundry, making cookies, and doing some blogging.

I  updated my birthday freebies for 2026- You can find the post here. The list mostly offers what you can find in Southern California.

If you live outside Southern California, check out this list: Free Birthday Stuff: Get The Best 100+ Freebies on Your Birthday!

Looking for some summer fun for you and the kids? Here is my list of frugal fun activities in San Diego County.

For free food resources, please refer to my comprehensive list, available here.  It is focused on San Diego County, but additional resources are available outside my area.

Freebies

Free Frazil Slushies every Friday in June!
FREE Full-Size Pure & Cimple Serum, Night Oil or Moisturizer
FREE Go Kart Workshop at Home Depot
4 FREE Frozen Drinks at Casey’s Every Friday
FREE Red Bull at Love’s Travel Stops – Today Only
FREE Sample of Maison Francis Kurkdjian Paris Gentle Fluidity Fragrance
The Best Birthday Freebies and Free Stuff for Seniors
The Best Baby Registry Websites — Get Baby Freebies and Must-Haves
FREE Frazil Slushie Every Friday in June
FREE Starbucks Sweet Cream Now At Home Chatterbuy or House Party Kit
FREE Tea at McAlister’s Deli on July 16th
Get The Top 17 Free Baby Boxes in 2026: Walmart, Target, Amazon
FREE Sample of Chomps Original Chicken
FREE Bottle of Oh Yuk Wall & Baseboard Cleaner
FREE Sample of TERPS PLUS Fertilizer Enhancer
Free Chick-fil-A Birthday Item Every Year
Get Started on Your Wellness Goals with Free Supplement Samples
FREE Clear Whey Protein Kits on June 17th & June 21st
How to Get Free Beauty Samples Without Spending a Dime
FREE $25 Purchase at Old Navy After Cash Back
FREE L’Occitane Amande Sublime Resurfacing Body Serum
How I Get Free Samples with Free Shipping
FREE Full-Size Pura Self Organic Hair Growth Oil
Get Your Free Teeth Whitening Samples: A Brighter Smile Awaits
2 FREE Movie Tickets to Young Washington
FREE Limited Edition Tote Bag for National Outlet Shopping Day
Free Chick-fil-A: The Chick-fil-A Hacks You Need to Know – Yes, It Includes FREE Chicken!
FREE IMMORTAL Wellness Shot at Sprouts
FREE Sample of Cat Years Lickable Treats
FREE Sample of L’Oreal Age Perfect Le Duo Serum
FREE Heelys PR Box
FREE Pollinator Flower Seed Packet from National Geographic
FREE Gamer Supps GG Energy Sample Pack
FREE $30 on Select Categories at Target
FREE Lunar Lemonade at Planet Smoothie on June 21st
FREE Froyo for Dads at TCBY on June 21st
FREE LEGO Disney Sunglasses, Activity Booklet Giveaway & More at Target

Deals

How to Buy Unclaimed Packages for $1 From Amazon, Walmart and More (And Save Up to 80%)
Michaels Coupons: Our Favorite Coupons for 40% Off & More Deals
Babylist Universal Baby Registry: The Only Baby Registry You Need
Tzumi Puree Warming Coffee Mug ONLY $29.99 at Macy’s (Reg $58)
3-Speed Vinyl Record Player ONLY $37.99 on Amazon (Reg $60)
What Is a Raincheck at the Grocery Store & How To Use Them?
Women’s Sandals Starting at $16 at JCPenney
Nostalgia 32-Ounce Heated Electric Lunch Box ONLY $19.99 (Reg $35)
DEWALT 20V MAX 2-Tool Power Tool Combo Kit ONLY $169 (Reg $249)
Wonder Nation Backpacks ONLY $4.97 at Walmart
DAKIMOE Weekender Bag ONLY $10 at Walmart (Reg $19)
Shark Navigator Swivel Pro Upright Vacuum ONLY $98 at Walmart (Reg $179)
Urban Outfitters Satin Mini Dress ONLY $9.95 (Reg $69)
Carote 22-Piece Ceramic Cookware Set ONLY $39.99 (Reg $90)

2026 Summer Fun with Kids on a Budget

Abby H.1 Comment

Today is the last Monday of school for my little kid.

I know a lot of you have kids who are out of school already, and you may be wondering how you can keep them busy without going broke.

I’ve got some things planned- different from other years, now that my posse is older. Here are some of the ways we’re having fun and staying cool.

Kids Bowl Free (only my younger kid qualifies, but it’s still a great program).

Summer Reading Programs. Between the City and County libraries, and Bookit, it’s going to be awesome!

Discount Summer Movies– It’s all second-run movies, but some of these are my kids’ favorites. Plus movie theatre popcorn and AC!

Balboa Park still offers Free Tuesdays at various museums in the park. If you or your kids have an EBT card, check out Museums for All. 

Both the City of San Diego and County of San Diego Library systems have fun events planned for kids and adults.  Some of the events my gang is looking forward to:

If you are looking to beat the heat and need something free, check out the Waterfront Park downtown. They have a great splash pad area for kids, a really fun playground, and a big grassy area for picnics. The only downside is the lack of shade trees.

There are a bunch of municipal pools in San Diego that have open swim times, and a couple that have splash pads!

If you are looking for free summer food for kids and families, check out my post here. 

And beyond that, if you are looking for free and low-cost food resources, check my page here.