The holiday season in Astoria is beautiful, but it can be expensive. Between gifts and travel, your budget might feel tight. You still want to make memories, and one of the best ways to enjoy the season affordably is by visiting Astoria movie theatres. Seeing a film gets you out of the rain and into a warm, cozy room. With a little planning, you can enjoy the magic of the big screen while keeping your wallet happy.
Here are some practical tips for making your trip to the movies affordable and fun this holiday season.
Choose Your Showtimes Carefully
Timing is everything when you want to save money. Most venues offer different ticket prices depending on the time of day.
Look for Matinees
Afternoon shows, known as matinees, are usually cheaper than evening performances. Taking the family to a 2:00 PM show instead of a 7:00 PM show can save you a significant amount per ticket. This is also a great option for families with young children who might get tired late at night. You get the full experience for a fraction of the price.
Check for Weekday Specials
Weekends are the busiest times for entertainment. Because of this, some local Astoria movie theatres and venues might offer lower prices or special deals on weekdays. If you have time off during the holiday break, consider going to a show on a Tuesday or Wednesday. You will likely face smaller crowds and might find better seating options, too.
Focus on the Experience, Not Just the Blockbusters
New release movies often come with the highest ticket prices. However, the holiday season offers unique opportunities to see different kinds of entertainment that can be more budget-friendly.
Watch Holiday Classics
Many venues bring back classic holiday films during December. These older movies often have lower ticket prices than brand-new releases. Watching a favorite seasonal movie on the big screen is a nostalgic and heartwarming experience. It often feels more special than watching a new action movie because it connects you to holiday traditions.
Community Screenings
Keep an eye out for community events. Sometimes, local organizations host screenings that are open to the public for a reduced rate. These events are a great way to support the local arts scene while enjoying a night out.
Plan Your Snacks and Drinks
Concessions are a big part of the movie experience, but they can add up quickly. If you are on a strict budget, plan your food around the movie.
Eat a filling meal before you head to the theatre. This way, you will not be hungry when you arrive. If you do want a treat, set a limit before you go inside. Maybe you decide to share a large popcorn instead of buying individual snacks for everyone.
However, remember that buying concessions helps support the venue. Many Astoria movie theatres and historic halls rely on concession sales to keep their lights on. If you can afford a small item, like a hot cocoa or a bag of popcorn, it is a great way to contribute to the preservation of these buildings.
Sign Up for Newsletters and Alerts
The best deals are often sent directly to your inbox. Most venues have email lists or newsletters. By signing up, you get access to information that the general public might miss.
You might receive notifications about flash sales, upcoming discount days, or special family packages. This is the easiest way to stay informed about what is happening at Astoria movie theatres without having to search for information constantly. Joining the list lets you know exactly when tickets become available, giving you the chance to snag the best-priced seats before they’re gone.
Combine the Movie with Free Activities
You can make the movie the centerpiece of a larger, budget-friendly day out. Astoria is full of free things to see and do.
- Walk the Riverwalk: Before the show, take a walk along the Columbia River to see the ships.
- See the Lights: After the movie, drive or walk around downtown to look at the holiday light displays.
- Window Shop: Stroll past the local shops to see their festive window decorations.
By pairing the ticketed event with free activities, you create a full day of entertainment while only paying for the movie.
Further Reading:
- Why You Should See Classic Movies in Astoria Theatres
- How to Support Astoria Theatres Without Spending Money
Affordable Entertainment at the Liberty Theatre
If you are looking for Astoria movie theatres that offer value, history, and comfort, the Liberty Theatre is the perfect choice. As a non-profit organization, we are dedicated to making the arts accessible to our community. Our historic Venetian-style theatre offers a stunning backdrop for films and events that you cannot get at a standard multiplex.
Make your holiday budget go further by choosing a venue that cares about the community. Check our schedule online to see our upcoming film screenings and performances. Make the Liberty Theatre your favorite destination among Astoria movie theatres for affordable, memorable family fun.
