Reindeer games
Santa is all over the place this time of year, but his reindeer make far fewer appearances. That makes their stops at Murdoch’s Ranch and Home Supply locations this week even more magical. On Saturday, Santa’s “hooved” helpers will be in Westminster from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Then, they “fly over” to Longmont from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. The next day, Sunday, they touch ground in Greeley from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and then Fort Morgan from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Finally, on Dec. 19, they pull into Littleton from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Parker from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Then, we suspect they’re heading back to the North Pole for a well-deserved rest before Christmas Eve.
Postage-paid
We’ve made it through Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Now, Free Shipping Day arrives on Friday. This cyber event marks the last possible 24-hour period when retailers can guarantee on-time delivery by Christmas Eve. With more than 700 online retailers offering free shipping deals, you’re sure to find the perfect last-minute gift. You might even consider shopping for yourself. After all, free shipping is always a welcome savings.
Get carded
With just about every national retailer and restaurant chain offering a gift card bonus this time of the year, now’s the time to “cash in” on those places you and your family frequent often. Gift cards do not need to be gifts. Consider pre-paying for meals and entertainment in 2016 now and pocket all the bonuses for yourself. For example, Applebee’s is offering a “mystery” bonus card (worth $5 to $25) with the purchase of a $25 gift card. Red Robin, Smashburger, Village Inn, IHOP and Famous Dave’s are among the many dealing out $5 bonus cards if you buy a $25 gift card. Each $25 Papa John’s gift card nets you a free large one-topping pizza. And Fandango is offering a free movie ticket with the purchase of a $75 gift card. It’s wise to make large gift card purchases in separate transactions that meet the minimum purchase requirement for more bonuses. Be sure to read the fine print on bonus cards for date and purchase restrictions, as they are not considered “gift cards.” tinyurl.com/giftcardbonuses
Cinema savings
If you’re a movie lover on a budget, make Sunday your weekly “movie day.” Regal Cinemas offers its Value Days promo every Sunday at two theaters — Greenwood Plaza Stadium 12 (8141 E. Arapahoe Rd., Englewood) and Meadows Stadium 12 (9355 Park Meadows Dr., Littleton.) Tickets are just $6 and $7 each, respectively. (Meadows 12 is priced higher because of its upgraded reclining seats.) The deal is even more of a blockbuster because the price includes new releases. However, there is an additional charge of $3.50 per ticket for 3-D films. The savings continue at the concession stand at both theaters on Sundays with $2 hot dogs and $3 nachos.
Every Saturday, Laura Daily and Bryan K. Chavez at compile “Cheap Checklist” to help smart shoppers find freebies, discounts and deals. Send tips to info@milehighonthecheap.com 10 to 14 days in advance.
