How to Save Money at the Movies

Go to the matinee with your friends and family. Matinee prices can cost as little as half as going to the night time show. Also, check your local listings for morning shows. During the week, some theatres run dollar specials for weekday mornings. The theatre still makes money on the concessions, so if they get any audience they are still ahead of the game.

Wait a month to go to the movie you want to see. Movies play in prime or "first run" theatres right when they release. However, that same movie usually changes houses to something called a "second run" theatre about four to six weeks later. Because these theatres show older movies and pay the studios less per ticket, the prices will be less than attending a movie at a first run theatre.

Bring your own snacks into the theatre. Some theatres have a "no outside food" policy. However, if you look around the theatre it is never strictly enforced. Call ahead and ask the theatre you are attending.

Buy the snacks in bulk and bring a paper bag. Many chain theatres offer specials if you buy the large popcorn and large soda combo. Not only will you save a buck or two, but you usually get free refills. So, if you're in a large group, buy the large, then divvy it up and go back for more.

Purchase tickets to your local theatre chain in bulk. Many of the nation's largest theatre chains offer ticket booklets in bulk. Usually you get a discount by buying 10 or more tickets. The more you buy, the more you save.

Win auctions on ebay.com or other auction sites. Many people win promotional tickets or receive tickets they cannot use.

Ask for discounts at the box office. When you go to buy your tickets, ask for student discounts, AAA discounts, senior discounts and more.