Freebies, discounts, and ways to save money in September

It’s always good to save money. Whether you’re looking for a fun, low-cost outing with the family, or an excuse to grab a snack on the way home, here’s our list of the best discounts and freebies this month:

Free food

September 12^th: National Chocolate Milkshake Day

Dairy queen, McDonalds, Sonic, and Wendy’s have all been known to offer deals in the past. Check your local store for specifics and times.

September 15^th: National Cheese Toast Day

Stop by your local Sizzler for a free cheese toast! The day was created to celebrate the California-born treat that has become popular with so many. Multiple locations across the area are participating. View the full list of participating locations here.

September 16^th: National Guacamole Day

There aren’t many discounts specific to this day, but Qdoba does offer free guacamole year-round. If you’re looking to get lunch without spending too much for extra guacamole, Qdoba could be your best bet.  

September 19^th: International Talk Like a Pirate Day

Last year, Long John Silver’s gave away free deep fried twinkies to any customer who could talk like a pirate, and free Fish N’ Fry to those who dressed as one. Krispy Kreme has also been known to offer free glazed doughnuts to customers who talked like a pirate. Check with local branches as the date gets closer for more information.

September 29^th: National Coffee Day

Last year, Dunkin’ Donuts offered a buy-one get-one free, so you can pick up a coffee for yourself and a friend. Einstein Bros. Bagels and 7-11 both offered a free cup with purchase of a food item, while Krispy Kreme and Barnes & Noble cafes gave away small cups completely free. Check on company websites for current offers.

Free fun

Irvine Park Railroad Pumpkin Patch

Availability Dates: September 14^th – October 31^st

Enjoy free admission to the seasonal Irvine Park Pumpkin Patch. There are many activities families can try for absolutely no cost, from the hay maze to the picture stands, haunted house, and hay pyramid. There are also other activities available with purchase tickets, like carnival games and train rides. If you visit on September 21^st, you’ll catch the Great Pumpkin Weigh-Off, a contest between pumpkin growers to see who can grow the largest one. Vehicles are charged a small entrance fee for each visit, usually $3 on weekdays.

Admission to the Natural History Museum

Availability Dates: Tuesdays throughout September

For families with kids looking for a way to have fun and stay educational, check out the Natural History Museum. Admission is free on the first Tuesday of every month, but they offer free admission on every Tuesday during the month of October. Stop by one day and check it out.

Free Museum Day

Availability Date: September 21^st, 2019

This annual celebration allows anybody to receive free admission to the many participating museums across the country. There are some in our area participating, but you can view the full list and retrieve your tickets on the Smithsonian Magazine website.

Free National Park Day

Availability Date: September 28^th, 2019

Enter the beautiful landscapes of America’s national parks completely free this month. Check the National Park Service website for more details and to find a park nearest to you.

Free concerts

Availability dates: All month long

The summer season isn’t over yet, which means more outdoor concerts! There are e a number of places still hosting free weekend events, like KCRW Radio and Santa Monica Pier.

Upcoming discounts for first responders

Free Admission to Aquarium of the Pacific

Availability Date:  September 11^th, 2019

Firefighters, EMS, police officers, and 911 dispatchers are invited to come to the Aquarium of the Pacific free of charge. All you need to bring is an active employee ID or paycheck stub to receive free admission.

Medieval Times Special Discounted Show

Availability Date: September 12^th, 7 PM show

First Responders are welcome to join the Medieval Times crew for a special show on September 12^th. Tickets will only be $33. A valid ID is required to receive the offer.

20% off Columbia Sportswear

Availability Dates: Now through September 9^th, 2019

As a thank you to first responders and military, the Colombia Store in Citadel Outlets will be offering a special discount for active duty and retired personnel. A valid ID must be presented.

Enjoy gift cards and vouchers from Nuvision!

Availability Dates: September 11^th – 30^th, while supplies last

This month, Nuvision is handing out free movie tickets, In-n-Out gift cards, and spa vouchers to the first responders who come into our Edinger branch. We want to help the heroes in our community relax and feel appreciated for all they do. If you are a first responder, or know somebody who is, let them know!