June 11, 2012 - - Temperatures are climbing, school is out, and everyone’s ready to get outside to enjoy the sunshine. However, keeping the kids (and yourself) entertained can put a strain on your wallet. Here are some ideas to have fun in the sun without breaking the bank.

Want to spend a day at the water park? For a family of four, admission alone can cost more than $100, and then you have to factor in concessions, parking, gas for travel, and so on. Rather than spending all that money for a day in the pool with hundreds of people, try organizing a neighborhood water park party. Each family that gets involved contributes something to the event: food, a slip n' slide, water guns/balloons, prizes, and whatever else you like. Keep it low-key and simple, or go all out with a grand theme; it's up to you.

How about going to a baseball game? Costs can really add up when you calculate admission, travel, concessions and other expenses. One alternative is to attend a minor league game rather than a major league match-up. Northwoods League game prices are usually less than $10, and you can cut down on the cost of concessions by tailgating or grilling out at home before the game.

What about the fair? State and county fairs and local carnivals are a lot of fun, but the expenses can add up quickly. Food, games, rides and souvenirs all factor into the total cost of the trip. To keep costs down, lay out a budget before you get to the fairgrounds. Allot specific amounts for games, concessions, and rides. You can also look through newspapers and online for coupons.

And remember to take advantage of events that are taking place locally. Explore Discoverwisconsin.com or the Bucky Book to see what your community has in store for the summer months. Making a few substitutions and taking the time to research best prices will help you have a fun, frugal summer.

Baylake Bank, a Baylake Corp company, serves its Wisconsin communities from 27 financial centers in Brown, Door, Green Lake, Kewaunee, Manitowoc, Outagamie, Waupaca, and Waushara counties and from its website at www.baylake.com. For more information call (920) 743-5551 or 1-800-267-3610.