It’s not the best of economic times out there and it’s hard to stretch what few dollars you have left after paying for the essentials. To help you out, each week we’re highlighting five things you can do for free (or real cheap).

1. Get outside. Hamilton Children's Museum, 1072 Main Street East, has free Winterfest activities — Have you ever tried ice bowling, or snowshoeing? Would you like to be a snow detective? — and warm refreshments on Saturday from 9:30 a. m. to 3:30 p. m.

2. Checkup for your child. Check It Out sessions are run the first Tuesday of each month on the Mountain, alternating between Hill Park Secondary School and LimeRidge Mall. The next two sessions are Feb. 3 at Hill Park from 9:30-11:30 a. m. and March 3 at Limeridge from 10 a. m. until noon.

3. Watch your fingers. If you’ve never seen it before, check out the weekly shark feeding frenzy at Big Al’s Aquarium Services Warehouse Outlet in Stoney Creek (140 Centennial Pkwy.) — every Tuesday at 7 p. m.

4. Tax help. It’s that time of year again. At 1:30 p. m. Wednesday at Terryberry Branch, 100 Mohawk Road W., you can learn about how to claim medical expenses and the Disability Tax Credit from Canada Revenue Agency staff.

5. Go for a skate. Nothing beats free ice time and volunteers in your community probably have a rink up and running at a nearby park. If you enjoy the free skating, think about helping out with the maintenance. Your local recreation centre has details.

Do you have a suggestion for this space? E-mail editor@hamiltonmountainnews.com or call 905-308-7757 ext. 335.