Cheap Checklist
Punkin Chunkin returns to Arapahoe Park Racetrack (26000 E. Quincy Ave.) in Aurora on Oct. 7 and 8. Whether it’s a sport or mechanical challenge, it’s a hoot to watch large slingshots, catapults, centrifuges, trebuchets and pneumatic air cannons hurl pumpkins through the air. Hours are Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Each day also includes a pumpkin patch with carving station, obstacle course, scarecrow making, fall market, car show, food vendors, beer garden, live music and children’s activities. Admission is $5 each day. Children 4 and under are free, as is parking. Some activities cost extra.
PATTY CAKE
Can you put birthday candles on a hamburger? Hamburger Stand is celebrating 35 years of serving burgers and fries. On Oct. 8, from noon to 5 p.m., get a regular hamburger for 35 cents. With a limit five per person, get five burgers for under $2. A family could easily have a burger feast for a little more than $5. (Fifteen burgers would cost $5.25 in total … plus tax.) Take the bargain burgers home and enjoy with sides and drinks already in your kitchen. Just remember, because of the limit, each family member may have to buy their burgers separately. All six Colorado locations are participating — Aurora, Denver, Englewood, Lakewood, Thornton and Westminster.
CANDY LAND
It may not be Halloween quite yet, but Friday the 13th sounds like the perfect night for treats and surprises. Northfield Stapleton (8340 Northfield Blvd.) in Denver is hosting a free, family-friendly Candy Crawl Halloween Event on Oct. 13 from 6 to 8 p.m. Little ghouls and goblins, along with their parents, can enjoy candy, hay rides, crafts, contests and more. Plus, the event will come alive with a face painter, fire dancer and more thrilling entertainment. Organizers request no scary costumes as the event is designed for kids.
OCTOBER SPIRITS
As part of its customer appreciation month, Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar is serving margaritas for just $1 each. Known as the Dollarita, the discounted margaritas are available every day in October. Through Oct. 31, famished frugal diners can pair the bargain beverage with the chain’s popular 2 for $20 meal deal for maximum savings. It’s the perfect time for a cheap date night. Combine the deals for an appetizer, two entrées and drinks for under $25. applebees.com
BIRTHDAY ANIMAL
Here’s the perfect way to go wild on your birthday, courtesy of the Denver Zoo. The popular attraction offers complimentary admission and treats on your birthday. The offer is only valid on your birthday and requires advance registration on its website. Go to denverzoo.org, click on “Tickets” and look for the “It’s My Birthday” banner. (The free entry only applies to the birthday guy or gal.) Once registered, receive an admission ticket for the date of your birthday via email. (A photo ID will also be required.) Bring the ticket to the box office on your birthday to receive your celebratory coupons, including free daytime admission, souvenir button, ice cream cone, one Conservation Carousel ride and 10 percent off a gift shop purchase. Given ticket prices range from $12 to $17, it’s quite the birthday present. denverzoo.org