You don't have to travel to experience the great outdoors. Grab a cheap tent, hot dogs and a bag of marshmallows and enjoy a night of campfire sing-a-longs and ghost stories. An outdoor fireplace provides a safe way to enjoy campfire foods without risking the dangers of an open campfire in your backyard. Sleep under the stars, or if you have little ones who might be frightened by an evening in the dark, take the sleeping bags inside and enjoy the rest of the night in the living room.
A trip to the local video rental store can start a great adult family evening. Plan a Movie Awards Night featuring Oscar and Golden Globe winning movies. To narrow the theme, select winners from different decades, like Best Picture Winners from the '80s. Other variations on the theme include movies featuring Best Actor winners or movies honored for special effects. Add cold beverages, bowls of candy and freshly popped popcorn to complete the evening.
Sleepovers don't have to be just for kids. Invite another family over for the evening. Plan for some fun activities, like board games, enjoy good food and good company. Have everyone bring sleeping bags and camp out in the living room. In today's hectic world, it is hard for friends to find time to truly talk. Stay up late, discuss your thoughts and get reacquainted with people you've known for years.