Absolutely FREE Lunch Combo at Macaroni Grill on Friday 9/28!

Visit the Macaroni Grill Facebook page and click on the Free Lunch Friday Tab to print your coupon (or show it on your mobile phone) for a FREE "Choose 2" Lunch Combination on Friday, September 28th, from 11am-4pm! The coupon is limited to the first 100,000 prints, so don't wait long!

The fine print: To redeem, print or display on your mobile phone. Valid for one free “Choose 2” Lunch Combination only. Dine-in only. Cannot be used with other coupons or discounts. One coupon per party, per table. O er valid September 28, 2012 from 11am – 4pm & cannot be used any other day or time. Taxes & gratuity not included. At participating locations. Excludes Montana, Hawaii, Puerto Rico and International locations.

Labor Day Weekend Freebees in Cleveland 2012

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Well, I haven't come across too many freebees for this weekend, unfortunately! There is a lot going on in Cleveland, though! Fox 8 has created an extensive list of events in the area (some are FREE), which include Oktoberfest, Navy Week, and the National Air Show, just to name a few. Check out the full list here for more information!

The freebees that I'm aware of are as follows:

• Block Party at Chick-fil-A (Great Northern Blvd, North Olmsted): Fun activities (featuring a bouncy house and more!) for the whole family on Friday, August 31st from 5-8pm. 
• FREE Lunch at Giant Eagle (Biddolph Rd, Brooklyn): Come to the Brooklyn Giant Eagle for Customer Appreciation Day on Sunday, September 2nd from 11am-3pm for a FREE lunch! Lunch is 1/person and includes a hot dog, bag of chips, and a Giant Eagle bottled water.
• If you know of any others, please leave a comment!

Some other FREE ideas to celebrate the end of summer:

• Have a cookout with family and friends
• Go on a picnic by the lake
• Visit the beach 
• Catch up on some sleep
• Have a movie day
• Start a new book
• Enjoy the outdoors by going on a hike or playing yard games

Whatever you decide to do, have a great Labor Day Weekend!

Make an "Eel Face" to Win Two FREE Tickets to the Greater Cleveland Aquarium

Set your pride aside and post your best "eel face" on the Greater Cleveland Aquarium's Facebook Page for a chance to win a spot on their Hauntaquarium promotional video and two FREE admission tickets to their adults-only Hauntaquarium Bash!

Photos must be posted by this Friday, August 24 at 5pm, and the winner will be announced on Monday morning. Applicants must also be available for a video shooting on Wednesday, August 29th from 6-7pm if chosen as the winner. Ages 21 and over.

I may or may not have submitted my own photo, so don't look too closely... ;)

Good luck!

Cleveland Beats & Eats Starts Tomorrow, 8/21!

Admission is FREE and open to the public! Cleveland Beats & Eats is an mid-day outdoor celebration of the diversity found in Cleveland, featuring local food (restaurants and vendors), live music, art, and culture. Come out an see the best of Cleveland!

Shark Weekend at the Greater Cleveland Aquarium

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Stop by the FREE Public Event, Shark Weekend--Draw the Line!, at the Greater Cleveland Aquarium on Saturday, July 28 & Sunday, July 29 from 10am-4pm in the parking lot adjacent to the aquarium. Watch volunteers create a chalk masterpiece detailing the plight of sharks worldwide. This event is free for the public to participate in, and participants receive 20% off aquarium admission following the event. If you've ever wanted to check out the aquarium at a discount, this sounds like your chance!

FREE 8 Count Nuggets at Chick-fil-A in Montrose on Thursday!

On Thursday, July 26th from 5-8pm, stop by the Chick-fil-A located in Montrose dressed as your favorite superhero and receive a FREE 8 count nugget!! The movie Captain America will be shown at 6pm. No age limit is specified, so moms and dads, feel free to participate, too!!

FREEbee Friday: Chick-fil-A, Starbucks, and Papa Johns!!

Tomorrow, Friday, July 13th, is a GREAT day for FREEbees! I apologize for not getting these up earlier in the week to give you more notice--it's been incredibly busy at my house!! Hopefully you will catch these in time to enjoy some of the offers.

Cow Appreciation Day 2012 at Chick-fil-A!

Chick-fil-A will give a FREE meal (breakfast, lunch, or dinner) tomorrow to any customer who comes into one of their restaurants fully dressed (from head to hoof) as a cow!! If you wear a partial costume, which could be as simple as a hat, you get a FREE entree. Visit their website for more details and to download your Cow Starter Kit!


FREE Refresher Beverage at Starbucks!


Visit your local participating Starbucks tomorrow from noon until 3pm to receive a FREE Tall (12oz.) handcrafted Starbucks Refreshers beverage, with your choice of Cool Lime or Very Berry Hibiscus. Limit 1 per person, no purchase necessary. While supplies last.


FREE Papa John's Pizza Offer!

Visit the Papa John's Facebook page and click on "Free Pizza Offer" for a FREE large 3-topping pizza, now through July 25th! You MUST order through their Facebook page and follow the instructions carefully to qualify for your free pizza. Once you complete your order of $10 or more (use the promo code p2anylg when ordering to get ANY large pizza for $10, including specialty pizzas!), you will receive 25 bonus Papa's Points in your account the following day, which you can use to redeem your free large pizza by July 25th. This promotion requires you to have a Papa's Points Rewards account, which is FREE to sign up for! See this previous post for more details. 


So with all these freebees, you should be covered for lunch, an afternoon beverage, and dinner tomorrow! Enjoy, and have a great weekend!!

Kids Eat FREE at IHOP in July!

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For the entire month of July, kids eat FREE at participating IHOP Restaurants from 4-10pm every day with the purchase of an adult meal. Kids may choose from the "Just For Kids" menu items. Call or visit the restaurant near you for more details!

FREE VBS Programs in Cleveland 2012

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Summer is now in full swing, and Vacation Bible School's all over the Greater Cleveland area are, as well! Attending a VBS is a great thing for children to do over the summer (and a much-needed break for parents, in some cases!). They are filled with teaching, music, games, prizes, crafts, snacks, and all kinds of fun activities, not to mention that most are completely FREE! There are far too many to list, but here's some to get you started:

Babylon: Daniel's Courage in Captivity
Walton Hills Church of Christ
7166 Dunham Rd, Walton Hills
June 25-29 from 6-8:30pm
Children preschool-Grade 6
Classes for adults
Cost: FREE
Call 440.439.4339 to Register!

VBS for ALL!
Redeemer Church
190 W. Streetsboro St. (Rt. 303), Hudson
June 25-29 from 6-8:30pm
Dinner 6-6:45pm
Program 6:45-8:30pm:
Nursery for ages 0-3
VBS for children ages 3-Grade 6
Bible Study for children Jr./Sr. High
Marriage Enrichment Seminar for Adults
Cost: FREE
Click here for the Registration From!

Adventures on Promise Land
Grace Missionary Baptist Church
3742 E. 131st St, Cleveland
July 9-13 from 6:45-9pm
Children of all ages welcome
Cost: ?
Preregister by calling 216.561.4030!

Gospel Light's Sonrise National Parks VBS
Parma Heights Baptist Church
8971 West Ridgewood Dr, Parma Heights
July 16-20 from 9:30am-Noon
Children ages 4-Grade 6
Activities for children age 0-3 if mom is on premises
Cost: FREE
Click here to Register!

Amazing Wonders: Encountering God's Awesome Power
New Life Christian Fellowship
580 N. State Rd, Medina
July 16-20 from 6:30-8:30pm
Children ages 3-Grade 6
Cost: FREE
Click here to Register!

Sky
Morning Star Baptist Church
10250 Shaker Blvd, Cleveland
July 23-27 from 6-9pm
Activities for teens and adults each day
Cost: FREE
Call 216.721.7300 for more information!

Bug Zone
Cedar Hill Baptist Church
12601 Cedar Rd, Cleveland Heights
July 30-August 3 from 7-8:30pm
Children ages 2-16
Cost: FREE
Contact them for more information!

Seaside Celebration
Zion Hill Missionary Baptist Church
16762 Findlay St, Chagrin Falls
August 13-17 from 6:30-8:30pm
Children of all ages
Cost: FREE
Call 440.247.6938 for more details!


Visit Moody Radio Cleveland for a more extensive list of local VBS's, including some further south in the Akron area and even some in PA. Also, drive around your local community and look at church signs. I was able to find four churches within five minutes of my house that are offering a VBS this summer! If you know of any great ones that aren't posted, please leave a comment!

FREE 16 oz Iced Coffee at Bruegger's on Thursday, June 21st!

I don't think there's anything better then a great cup of iced coffee on a hot day. Click here to print a coupon valid for one FREE 16 oz Iced Coffee per guest with coupon until 4pm on Thursday, June 21st ONLY! Like them on Facebook and print your coupon now!

FREE Book on Fatherhood for Active Duty Service Members

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Do you know a dad in the military, especially one who will not be home this Father's Day because he's serving our country? Here is an opportunity for him to get a FREE book on fatherhood! The book is Be A Better Dad Today: 10 Tools Every Father Needs, by Gregory W. Slayton. Now a National Bestseller, this book will provide fathers with 10 necessary tools to be better fathers and husbands. 100% of the proceeds will benefit fatherhood charities. Military members just need to click here and fill out the information. For more information about the book and to read chapter excerpts, click here.

Still looking for a last minute, but quality, Father's Day gift? This book can be purchased on Amazon, at Barnes & Noble, or on Christianbook for around $13.49.

Don't forget to check out all the other Father's Day FREEbees here!

Marine Week in Cleveland 2012

Have you had a chance to make it downtown for Marine Week yet? If not, you still have a chance!! Events are scheduled all the way through the weekend, ending on Sunday, June 17th at 5pm. Check it out! Click here for the schedule of events.

FREE Lunches All Summer for Children Age 18 and Under!!

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For the several years now, Grace Church in Old Brooklyn, Cleveland (located at 2503 Broadview Rd.), is partnering with the Cleveland Foodbank to provide FREE lunches to children 18 and under for the summer! This Ohio Summer Food Service Program will run Monday through Friday from 11:30am-1:30pm, starting Monday, June 11th through Friday, August 17th. The lunch menu for the month of June is as follows:

• June 13: Turkey and Cheese Sandwich
• June 14: Beef Lasagna
• June 15: Ham and Cheese Sandwich
• June 18: Sloppy Joes
• June 19: Chicken & Noodle
• June 20: Chicken Strips
• June 21: Chicken Sausage on a Bun
• June 22: Turkey, Ham & Cheese Sandwich
• June 25: Chicken & Gravy
• June 26: Beef & Peppers
• June 27: Turkey & Cheese Sandwich
• June 28: Taco Casserole
• June 29: Ham & Cheese Sandwich

All meals are served with a fruit, vegetable, milk, and sometimes a dessert. Adults will be served at 1pm (or earlier if it's a slow day) with the remaining food. There will also be a Nutrition Class for adults on Thursdays, starting June 21st at noon. Children can come and eat and then participate in a cooking lesson with Chef Micheal while the adults are learning about nutrition. More detailed information about this program and others will be coming soon!

*NEW* As of June 18th, Cleveland Recreation Centers will be offering FREE lunches to Cleveland Residents ages 1-18 every Monday through Friday, until August 17th. Click here to view the list of participating recreation centers, staffed playgrounds, public libraries, and various other non-profit agencies to find one near you! Times vary by location. Glenville Rec, Halloran Rink, Lonnie Burten, Zelma George, and Ken Johnson locations will also be serving breakfast, Monday through Friday from 10-10:30am. 

Weekend Giveaway: 2 FREE Issues of Family Fun Magazine!!

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How would you like to start off your summer break with some FREE magazines?? I have two new, unopened copies of Family Fun Magazine (the May issue and the June/July issue) that I'd like to give away to one lucky reader! 

The giveaway will start immediately and run until midnight on Sunday, June 10th. Each person can earn up to three entries. Here's how:

1.) Leave a comment on this post letting us know which post on Free As Can Bee is your favorite.

2.) Like us on Facebook and leave a separate comment on this post letting us know you did!

3.) Share this post on your Facebook page and encourage all your friends to check us out! Then leave a separate comment on this post letting us know you did.

One winner will be chosen at random and the results will be posted Monday evening, June 11th. The winners will have until Tuesday, June 12th at midnight to respond via email. Details to follow in the winners post!

Good luck!! :)

What's Going on This Weekend in CLE, June 8-10th, 2012

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Here's a roundup of this weekend's events and activities:

23rd Parade in the Circle and CircleVillage
Saturday, June 9th from 11am-4pm in Wade Oval
This "fabulous, fun, and FREE celebration" is entertaining and great for people of all ages! Come enjoy the parade, which begins at noon, and watch the colorful, animated display of floats, puppets, costumes, musicians, and dancers. Hang out in Wade Oval for an afternoon filled with live music, activities, and delicious food! For more information about the parade, click here!


7th Annual Fine Art Fair at Crocker Park
June 9-10th; Saturday 10am-8pm, Sunday 11am-6pm
Featuring more then 100 nationally and locally known fine art and crafts artists displaying a variety of mediums. In the past there has been a children's tent, where they can make their own arts and crafts project to take home! For more information about the Fine Art Fair, click here.


Cars, Crafts, & Strawberries Festival at Mapleside Farms
Sunday, June 10th from 10am-4pm
FREE Admission, Crafts exhibits, Classic cars, BBQ, Strawberries desserts galore! Fun for the whole family!

CanalWay Sunset Concert
Friday, June 8th from 7:30-9pm at the CanalWay Center
Come hear the Chardon Polka Band, and eight year old band that will not disappoint! Bring a chair or blanket.

Don't forget to check out the Father's Day Freebees and the Outdoor Concerts that are going on this weekend, as well!


Anything we missed? Please leave a comment!!

FREE Swimming Lessons in Cleveland 2012

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Did you know that there are many places around the Cleveland area where your kids can learn to swim for FREE?? That would save you an average of $40/session, but the free sessions will probably be more crowded. If you would rather avoid the crowds and pay, check with your local recreation center for their swimming schedule.

The City of Cleveland offers FREE Learn to Swim Classes for kids ages 8-17. There are youth an adult programs available. Click here to view the flyer and find a pool near you! Click here to view the complete schedules of local Recreation Centers and Pools in Cleveland.

Facebook FREEbees!

See the Free As Can Bee Facebook page for some pretty cool FREEbees tomorrow in Cleveland! Westfield Southpark Mall and the Westside Market have some fun things going on! Have a great weekend!

Don't forget to "Like" us (hover your mouse over the "Like" button and click "See in News Feed" to make sure you're not missing any of the great FREEbees that are posted!) and tell your friends!

Farmer's Markets in the Cleveland Area 2012

Farmers markets are FREE to attend, and a lot of them will offer free samples, tastings, demonstrations, and more! Buying local produce is not only better for you but is good for our local farmers and economy, so stop by one close to you! Here's a roundup of the markets in the area I'm aware of (special events are italicized):

Farmers Market at Farmpark

• Every Wednesday 3-6pm, May 18th-October 12th
• Located in the Lake Farmpark parking lot in Kirtland
• Featuring locally grown seasonal produce and products. Click here for a list of items, updated each week, that can be found at the market.

Geauga Fresh Farmers Market

• Every Saturday 9am-noon, rain or shine, starting May 19th
• Located at Rt. 306 and Bell St. in South Russell
• Featuring lots of fresh produce, herbs, flowering plants, honey and maple syrup, handmade soaps and lotions, meat, cheese, kettle corn, jewelry, crafts, and more!

Medina Farmers Market

• Every Saturday 9am-1pm, June 2nd-October
• Located in Medina Public Square
• Featuring fresh flowers, plants, herbs, produce, foccacia, cookies, pies, and more!

North Coast Harbor Farmers Market

• Every Thursday 11:30am-2:30pm, June 2nd-September 8th
• Located on the E 9th Street Pier
• Features produce, cheese, flowers, canned items, jewelry, clothing, cooking demonstrations, and much more!
• FREE parking

North Union Farmers Markets

• One of the top 20 Farmers Markets in the US and voted "Best Farmers Market" in Cleveland
• There are many North Union markets in the area:
• Shaker Square Market, Saturdays 8am-noon, April 7th-December 22nd. This will be followed by the Shaker Square Winter Indoor Market.
• Crocker Park Market, Saturdays 9am-1pm, April 14th-December 22nd
• Crocker Park Evening Market, Thursdays 4-7pm, June 14th-August 30th
• Chagrin Falls Market, Sundays 10am-1pm, June 3rd-October 21st
• Cleveland Clinic Main Campus Market, Wednesdays 10:30am-1:30pm, June 6th-October 24th
• Cleveland State University Market, Thursdays 11am-2pm, June 7th-September 27th
• Cleveland Clinic Beachwood Market, Wednesdays 11am-2pm, July 25th-September 26th
• Click each link for more information about each market, including location, vendors, and more!
• Flower Days at the Market on Saturday, May 19th from 9am-1pm at Crocker Park and again on Saturday, May 26th from 8am-noon at Shaker Square. It's an event focused on getting your garden and yard ready for summer. Win a FREE Troy-Bilt Lawnmower! Click here for more details.

Tremont Farmers Market

• Every Tuesday 4-7pm, May 1st-October 30th
• Located in Lincoln Park in Tremont
• Featuring eggs, cheese, produce, spices, coffee, tea, honey, meat, bread, salsa, local artisans, musicians, and more!
• Visit their website for more information on vendors and other weekly happenings at the market
• Flower Power Dance Workshop on Tuesday, June 5th from 5:00-5:45pm for ages 3-7. Children can participate in a FREE creative movement dance class with Tremont Moves. Wear play clothes and tennis shoes. Click here for more details. 

Don't see your local Farmers Market listed? Click here for an extensive list of Ohio Farmers Markets to find one near you! Enjoy!

Father's Day FREEbees in Cleveland 2012

Here's a list of all the FREE stuff for Dad on or before Father's Day in the Cleveland area.

Home Depot: Build an Organizer for DAD! Saturday, June 2nd from 9am-12pm at the location near you.

Lowe's: Build a Monkey Powered Plane just like in the Madagascar movies! Saturday, June 9th at 10 am and Sunday, June 10th at 2pm. Click here to register and find the location near you.

Pat Catans: Duck Tape Wallets for Dad. See how easy it is to create with duck tape! Saturday, June 9th and Sunday, June 10th from 11am-3pm. Find a participating location near you!

Michael's: Choose from several Father's Day Make It Take It Events! All are designed for children ages 3 and up. Check with the store near you to see if they are participating!

• Father's Day Frame (with purchase of frame), Saturday, June 9th from 10am-noon
• Father's Day Keychain (FREE), Sunday, June 10th from 1-3pm
• Father's Day Mug (with purchase of mug), Tuesday, June 12th from 6-8pm
• Father's Day Duck Tape Wallet (FREE), Friday, June 15th from 6-8pm
• Father's Day T-shirt/Tie (with purchase of shirt/tie), Saturday, June 16th from 10am-noon

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo: Dads receive half-priced admission to the Zoo on Father's Day, June 17th, from 10am-7pm.

Avon Heritage Duck Tape Festival: For the 9th year, this unique festival will take place on Father's Day weekend, June 15-17th, in Veteran's Memorial Park (located on Detroit Rd. in Avon). There will be a Duck Tape Parade Saturday, June 16th at 10am. For the complete schedule, hours, and other details, click here.

FREE Family Fun Father's Day Weekend: Located at Medina County Fairgrounds. "The Medina County Antique Power Association invites the community to attend our 37th Annual Engine & Power Show from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Father's Day weekend (June 16th & 17th). There will be antique cars, trucks, lawn & garden equipment and tractors & engines on display. Throughout the weekend, our club will be demonstrating how some of the old farm equipment is operated (rock crusher, corn meal grinder, etc.). There will also be a kids' corner, flea market, bake sale and food concessions. On Sunday, there will be a truck and tractor pull starting at 10 am. There is something for everyone to do at our show. ADMISSION IS FREE!! Please enter off Smith Road. For more information please call our club president, Lanny Mostoller, at (330) 336-3181." *NEW* (Thanks, Amy!)

TCBY: Dad gets a FREE frozen yogurt (cup or cone) on Father's Day, June 17th. Click here to find a location near you.

A Summer in Ohio: A Father's Day Cabaret!: Enjoy a musical performance of showtunes old and new. Perfect for all ages! This special event will be held on Sunday, June 17th at 2pm at the Beachwood branch of the CCPL. FREE tickets are required for admission and are available at the branch.

FREE Book on Fatherhood for Active Duty Service Members *NEW*

Restaurant Deals for Dad: Does anyone know of any? Discounted meals for dad or gift card promotions? If so, please leave a comment!

Enjoy!

Art in the Village at Legacy Village, June 2 & 3

Saturday, June 2, 10am-8pm 
Sunday, June 3, 10am-6pm

Come and see this unique and talented display of artist, handpicked by experts from hundreds of applicants. All artwork is original and made in the United States. There will be live music throughout the event featuring several different styles of music. Visit the Kid's Art Zone from noon-4pm Saturday and Sunday where children can create a piece of art to take home! There will be a special wine tasting from noon-6pm both days, food, shopping, and more! Admission and parking are FREE. For more information click here.

FREE and Cheap Summer Movies in Cleveland 2012

Here's a roundup of all the FREE and cheap summer movie programs and events in the greater Cleveland area this summer.

Regal Cinemas Summer Movie Express
Select theaters offer G or PG movies for only $1/person on Tuesday and Wednesday Mornings at 10am from June 19th through August 15th. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Will Rogers Institute. The two participating theaters in the Cleveland area are:

COBBLESTONE SQUARE STADIUM 20
5500 Cobblestone Road
Elyria OH440-934-3355

MEDINA STADIUM 16
200 West Reagan Pkwy
Medina OH
330-721-7056   

To find a theater close to you or to view movie dates/times, click here.


Cleveland Cinemas FREE Summer Kids Fest *NEW* (Thanks, Rochelle!)
Select Cleveland Cinemas locations will be presenting a series of 6 FREE family films this summer. Seating is on a first-come first-served basis. Doors open at 9:30 AM. Films will play at 10AM at these locations on the following weekdays:

Plaza Cinemas at Chapel Hill - Tuesdays
Chagrin Cinemas - Wednesdays
Solon Cinemas - Thursdays
Capitol Theatre - Fridays

The films in the series are:
PUSS IN BOOTS (PG) - June 19 - 22
MONSTERS VS. ALIENS (PG) - June 26 - 29
THE ADVENTURES OF TINTIN (PG) - July 3 - 6
THE SPIDERWICK CHRONICLES (PG) - July 10 - 13
KUNG FU PANDA 2 (PG) - July 17 - 20
OVER THE HEDGE (PG) - July 24 - 17

**Pick up a Marquee Rewards Card at any Cleveland Cinemas location for FREE. Simply register your card online (earning a free 20 points when you do!) and immediately start earning points towards great rewards like free popcorn, fountain drinks, and movie tickets! Earn one Marquee Rewards Point for every dollar spent at the box office or concession stand. Click here for more details or to register your card. Rewards Cardholders also get a free 32 oz popcorn with paid admission on Tuesdays!

Cinemark Summer Movie Clubhouse

Fun films for kids, and all are rated G or PG. Get 10 shows for $5 if purchased in advance or $1/show at the door. Shows are on Tuesdays and Wednesdays and start at 9:30am, and they run from June 12 & 13 through August 14 & 15. Local theaters include:

• Aurora, Cinemark 10
• Macedonia Cinemark
• North Canton Cinemark Movies 10
• Strongsville Southpark Cinemark

To find more information about the theater near your or to view movie schedule, click here!


Movies in the Park at Crocker Park
Movies will be shown every Thursday evening at 9pm starting June 7th through August 30th in the West Park, behind Game Stop. Movies will end around 10:30pm. The films will cover all ages and genres. There's something for everyone! And best of all, it's FREE!! Click here for the complete schedule.


Moonlight Movies at Legacy Village
Movies will be shown on the third Wednesday of each month during the summer from 9-11pm on the Lawn (located between Bar Louie and California Pizza Kitchen). They are FREE! The dates for the summer are:

• June 20th (feature presentation is The Muppets)
• July 18th
• August 15th

There will be movie-themed kids activities on the Lawn with Radio Disney from 7-9pm before the movie begins. If the event is cancelled due to weather, it will be rescheduled for June 27th. For more information, click here. 

Keep an eye out for local community movie nights, as well! If you know of any that aren't mentioned, please comment and let us know! Enjoy.

Little Italy Art Walk, June 1, 2, & 3

Friday, June 1 from Noon to 9 PM
Saturday, June 2 from Noon to 9PM
Sunday, June 3 from Noon to 6PM
(Hours may vary by gallery.
Call your favorite spot to verify hours)

Valet Parking during Art Walk
hours on Mayfield Rd.

Over 100 visiting and local artists, unique art, one-of-a-kind stores, and fabulous food all characterize this event. Stop by and see what it's all about! Visit their website for more details!

FREE Doughnuts on National Doughnut Day, Friday, June 1st

Make the rounds on Friday, June 1st, and get a handful of doughnuts for FREE in honor of National Doughnut Day!! Here are the local places that are offering freebees:

Krispy Kreme: Get a FREE complimentary doughnut of your choice, all day at participating locations. Sign up for their e-Club to get a reminder and other details.

Dunkin Donuts: Visit any participating location and receive a FREE doughnut with any beverage purchase.

Giant Eagle: Get a FREE doughnut with any hot or cold dispensed beverage purchase, while supplies last.

Jack Frost Donuts (4960 Pearl Rd., Cleveland): Get a FREE donut with any purchase.

Enjoy!

FREE Magazine Subscriptions: Never Pay For One Again!!

Do you love reading magazines or even just enjoy having them on the coffee table for guests? Did you know that you can get a subscription to many different magazines for FREE? These are the ones I currently have a free subscription to: Popular Science (for the hubby), Martha Stewart Living, Everyday with Rachael Ray, and Everyday Food. I have a hard time keeping up with all those, so I recently passed along Better Homes & Gardens and Whole Living to family members. Lucky them, huh?!? :)

There are a couple different sites that routinely offer FREE magazine deals. Here's some to get you started:

• Rewards Gold: All you have to do is sign up, refer some friends, and answer a few survey questions with 25 words. Then you've got yourself a FREE subscription! This might not seem like a legitimate site or offer, but it is--that's where my Martha Stewart Living and Everyday Food subscriptions came from! I have several email accounts, so I referred myself, and I would recommend using a "junk" email account to sign up because you might receive spam. Click here to view the current available magazines (MSL is one of them!!!). If you don't see one you like now, just save your points until you do.

• Recyclebank: A website that encourages green living, where you can watch video clips, take quizzes, & make pledges to earn points. Points can be redeemed for a variety of rewards, one of them currently being Everyday Food for 115 points. Earning is easy and quick. Start now and you'll have your free magazine in no time! 

Other magazines I've seen for FREE:

• Redbook
• Women's Day
• Good Housekeeping
• Family Fun
• Field&Stream
• Working Mother
• Outdoor Life
• Shape
• Family Circle
• And more!!

When I come across any of these deals in the future, I'll pass them on!

75 {Mostly} FREE Things to Do with Kids in the Summer!

Are you ever stuck wondering, "what should we do today?" during the summer?? Look no further! Below is a list courtesy of Freebies2Deals that will make any summer fun and full of memories!

Something that my kids and I like to do when the weather is nice is sit outside and play the "Car Game." This gives the kids (well, my husband and I play, too!) something to do when you're sitting in the front yard, riding bikes, or having a picnic. It goes like this:

• The object of the game is to correctly guess what color car will drive down the road next.
• Everyone gets a chance to pick a different color, and whoever guesses the color of the car correctly (by pure luck) gets to choose the color of their car first for the next round. 
• The colors can be as simple (red, blue, green, etc.) or as complicated (navy blue, teal, tan, etc.) as you'd like!
• Whoever guesses the most correctly, wins!

This is a game that can be played anywhere, anytime, and doesn't require anything but participation. Hopefully you will have better luck then my daughter, who always guesses pink... Bless her heart, but she never wins!!! 

Here's a link to the 75 Kids Activities for Spring and Summer, and have a safe and happy summer!!

FREE Admission to Blue Star Museums for Active Military Starting May 28th

Blue Star Museums offers FREE admission to active military personnel and their families to more then 1,500 Museums across America. These benefits start on Memorial Day, May 28th and run through Labor Day, Sepetember 3, 2012.

The participating Museums in the greater Cleveland area include:

• Akron Art Museum
• The Summit County Historical Society in Akron
• Cleveland Botanical Garden
• Cleveland Museum of Natural History
• Cleveland Sculpture Center

Click here for a complete list of participating Ohio Museums. Visit the website for more details!

FREE Events on Memorial Day Weekend in Cleveland 2012

Lots of fun and FREE activities in Cleveland on Memorial Day weekend!


Tremont Greek Fest
Greek Orthodox Church of the Annunication, 2187 West 14th, Cleveland 44113
May 25-27th, 11am-11pm; May 28th, 11am-7pm
Enjoy authentic Greek food, pastries, dancing, and a Greek marketplace and beer tent! The festival is held over Memorial Weekend each year, and admission is free! Food and beer extra.

Chagrin Falls Blossom Time Festival
Riverside Park, Chagrin Falls
Thursday, May 24th - Monday, May 28th; check schedule of events for details.
What a great line-up of family-friendly events for the weekend! Carnival rides, pie eating contests, fair food, hot air balloons, and more! Come out on Saturday from from 9:30am-noon at the Big Top Tent for Kids Day, and make sure to catch one of the Heinen's Hot Air Balloon Races, held Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 6:30-8:00pm.

Berea's National Rib Cook-off
Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds, Berea
May 25th-28th; Friday noon-11pm, Sat & Sun 11am-11pm, Monday 11am-9pm
What is a holiday weekend in the summer without some great BBQ??? Offering a mechanical bull, inflatables, and a rock climbing wall, this event couldn't be more family friendly. Enjoy FREE admission all day on Friday only. Parking is FREE, as well, and kids ages 12 and under get free admission all weekend. Admission is $5/person (ages 12+) the rest of the weekend, and tickets can be purchased at the gate. Food and beverages are extra, of course, but worth every penny!

Outdoor Summer Concert Series Begin Friday, May 25th
Outdoor concerts start all over the Cleveland area on Memorial Day weekend. Some of the top locations include Mapleside Farms, Crocker Park, Legacy Village, Medina Square, and more! See this post for all the details!

Memorial Day Parades on Monday, May 28th
Make some memories by attending a parade in your local community this Memorial Day! Whatever you decide to do, please remember all the brave men and women who have fought, and who continue to fight, for the freedoms you are enjoying today!! For a complete list of local parades click here.

FREE Slider at Max & Erma's Restaurants on Memorial Day
In honor of National Hamburger Day on May 28th, Max & Erma's restaurants are giving away a FREE Slider to each person that comes in! One per person with beverage purchase, valid May 28th only.

Pools and Splash Pads open for the season!
Just another thing to keep in mind for Memorial Day weekend, especially if the weather is sunny and warm! Community pools and splash pads will open for the summer starting Memorial Day (when the weather hits 80 degrees) and will remain open through Labor Day. Information about Splash Pads in the area can be found in this previous post here.

Happy Memorial Day!!!

FREE Outdoor Concert Series in Cleveland for Summer 2012

Here is a round-up of all the great, local outdoor concert series that are starting for the summer! They start THIS WEEKEND and most run through early September. Hopefully you will take time to enjoy some of them! :)

Concerts Over the Valley at Mapleside Farm

(Photo Credit: Mapleside Farms)

• Every Friday night from May 25-September 28, 6-9:30pm (gates open at 5pm)
• Concerts feature a wide variety of genres and styles
• Admission is FREE, with the exception of June 15th, July 20th, August 31st (these are Premium Concerts and cost $2/person or $5/Family of 3 or more)
• Wine, beer, and food are available for purchase
• Bring your own chair or blanket, relax, and enjoy the view! 
• For the complete concert schedule, click here. 

Legacy Live at Legacy Village

• Every Friday & Saturday night from May 25-September 15, 6-9:30pm
• Concerts feature a wide variety of genres and styles
• Concerts take place on the Lawn, located between California Pizza Kitchen and Bar Louie
• Subject to change/cancellation due to weather when applicable
• For the concert schedule through June 30th, click here.

Music in the Park at Crocker Park

(Photo Credit: Crocker Park)

• Every Friday & Saturday from May 25-September 1, 6-8:30pm
• Enjoy a variety of musical talents
• Concerts take place behind GameStop by the large grassy area (off the roundabout)
• For the complete concert schedule, click here. 

Rally in the Alley in Medina Square

(Photo Credit: Main Street Cafe)

• Every Friday night starting May 25th and ending with a large event the entire Labor Day Weekend (September 1 & 2)
• Admission is FREE with the exception of Saturday and Sunday Labor Day weekend
• Wine, beer, spirits, and food are available for purchase
• For the complete concert schedule and other details, click here. 

Summer Concert Series at Shaker Square

• Every Saturday night from June 23-August 18, 6-9pm
• Admission is FREE
• Bring a chair or blanket, or you can listen from a restaurant patio while you enjoy dinner!
• There is currently no concert schedule posted

First & Main Music Nights in Hudson

• This concert series takes place on the Green at First & Main in Hudson
• Concerts run from July-August on Fridays and Saturdays, 7-9pm
• Schedule and more details will be posted when they become available

Quick Giveaway: Baker's Square Kids Eat FREE Coupons!!

This is the first ever giveaway on Free As Can Bee!! It seemed only fitting to start off by giving away something that had to do with families and FREE. Two lucky readers will win two coupons each for a Free Kids Entree with Any Adult Entree Purchase at Bakers Square! 


The giveaway will start immediately and run until 5:00 pm tomorrow, Tuesday, May 22nd. Each person can earn up to three entries. Here's how:

1.) Leave a comment on this post letting us know which post on Free As Can Bee is your favorite.

2.) Like us on Facebook and leave a separate comment on this post letting us know you did!

3.) Share this post on your Facebook page and encourage all your friends to check us out! Then leave a separate comment on this post letting us know you did.

The two winners will be chosen at random and the results will be posted Wednesday evening. The winners will have until Thursday at 5:00 pm to respond via email. Details to follow in the winners post!

Good luck!! :)

**Fine print on the coupon: Side dishes, kid's meals, beverages and pies are not considered an adult entree. Valid at participating locations. Not valid with any other offers/promotions/discounts. Not valid with Pie Rush Wednesday. Dine-in only. One coupon per person per visit (so two adults would have no problem using the two coupons). Tax and gratuity not included. Expires 6/2/12

FREE Fun in the Water at Splash Pads in Cleveland

(Photo Credit: Crocker Park)

There are several Splash Pads in the Greater Cleveland area, and they are a free, safe way to have fun in the water this summer! They are open for the season starting Memorial Day (when the temperature reaches 80 degrees) and close on Labor Day. These are the ones that I'm aware of, and the details are as follows:

North Ridgeville Splash Pad, located in South Central Park. This splash park is completely fenced in and good for small children. Open daily from 10am-9pm, Memorial Day to Labor Day. Click here for more details. As of this summer in 2012, this splash pad is now open only to residents of North Ridgeville.

Medina Splash Pad, located in Fred Greenwood Park on West Sturbridge Drive across from A.I. Root Middle School. Open 11am-8pm, Memorial Day to Labor Day. Click here for more details.

Lake Ridge Academy Splash Zone in Westlake, located in Crocker Park off the roundabout right behind Game Stop. Open Memorial Day to Labor Day, from 10am-4pm and again from 7pm-10pm every day (Sunday hours are 11am-4pm only). Children must wear shoes.

Old Brooklyn Splash Pad, located in Loew Park. Newly constructed in 2011. Splash pad and 3 ft. pool open daily at 12pm.

There are many other Splash Pads located in parks throughout the Cleveland area. They are open when the weather hits 80 degrees from 11am-6pm, Memorial Day thru Labor Day. The parks are listed below:

Arthur Johnston Park (E. 147th & Seville)
Carol McClendon (East 98 & Union)
Charles Orr (Ansel & Lamont)
Easton (E. 88th & Union)
Emery (West 130 & I - 71)
Fairview Park (W. 38th & Franklin)
Grant (E. 38th & Central)
Halloran Park (West 117th & Linnet)
Irma (E. 74th & Irma)
Lincoln Park (Tremont)
Mercedes Cotner (W. 95th & Maywood)
Moulton/Scoutway (E. 115th & Moulton)
R.J. Taylor (Melville Rd. & Nottingham)
Regent (E. 70th & Regent)
Roberto Clemente (West 38th & Seymour)
Rockefeller Park (East 105 & MLK Blvd)
Trent (W. 40th & Trent)
Village Green (Olmsted Falls)

Enjoy!

FREE Redbox Rental Codes!

If you're a regular Redbox user, or even once in a while, this post is for you!! There are a handful of codes that can be used at any Redbox kiosk for a FREE one-night DVD rental. The codes with no expiration are as follows:

BREAKROOM

DVDONME

DVDONUS

RENTONME

Codes valid only at Walgreens locations:

DVDATWAG

BREAKDOWN

WALGREENS

Codes valid only at Sonic locations:

DRIVEIN

DVDATSONI

Rental codes can be used one time per credit card. Remember to return the DVD by 9pm the following day to avoid additonal charges! 

Also, you can join the Redbox Text Club to receive a FREE rental code on the first Monday of every month, valid that day only. 

Enjoy!

FREE Festivals in Cleveland This Weekend, May 19-20th

Well, summer is almost here and so are the wonderful, FREE festivals that come with it each year! Here are a few to get you started this weekend:

Pop UP Pearl
Located in the Old Brooklyn area of Cleveland on Pearl Rd, just south of the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. Come out and see all the unique, beautiful crafts by Images in Bloom and enjoy some amazing food and music at the Grace Church Blues and BBQ tent, just to name a few!




6th Annual Chalk Art Festival
Come out and see professional artists create beautiful chalk masterpieces, or sign up for your own space and create one yourself! This festival goes from 9am-5pm on May 19th and is located in Downtown Medina on the Square.

Hessler Street Fair
This street fair is an annual community arts and music event in University Circle, boasting to be one of Cleveland's most successful festivals! This family-friendly event will be celebrating is 43rd year and features a wide variety of local food, artists, musicians, and poets. This year’s fair will be held Saturday May 19 and Sunday May 20, 2012 from 11 am to dusk, rain or shine.

The Hessler Street Fair Committee
11326 Hessler Road
Cleveland, OH 44106

Cleveland Metroparks Annual Children's Fishing Derbies

If your kids (ages 4-15) like to fish, or if they've always wanted to try it, this annual fishing derby is for you! Bait (red worms, maggots and corn) will be available at no charge for derby participants. Bring a rod, tackle and a cooler with ice to store the “catch of the day.” While supplies last, loaner rods (fully rigged for bait fishing) are available for children who do not have their own. Rain or shine. Participation is FREE!

Saturday, May 19
Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation, Cuyahoga Heights

Sunday, May 20
Wallace Lake Mill Stream Run Reservation, Berea

Fishing Sessions:
Ages: 4-8 • 9 a.m. to noon (one rod per child)
Ages: 9-15 • 1 to 4 p.m. (one rod per child)

FREE Admission to the Cleveland Botanical Gardens, May 11th (tomorrow) ONLY!

Celebrate National Public Gardens Day at the Cleveland Botanical Gardens, for FREE!! Visit the Better Homes and Gardens website here to print out your coupon now! This coupon is valid tomorrow, May 11th only. Print out one for your family and friends, too! The other participating Ohio gardens are listed here. Enjoy!

FREE Cannoli at Mapleside Farms, TODAY only!

Today is the Grand Opening of Corbo's Bakery at Mapleside Farms, and to celebrate they are giving away a FREE CANNOLI to every customer who stops by! They are open tonight until 7pm. Enjoy!

FREE Easter Egg Hunts in Cleveland in 2012

Easter is almost here! With about two weeks left until Easter Sunday, here are some of the FREE Easter Egg Hunts in the Cleveland area:

March 31st

Broadview Heights, 9543 Broadview Rd, 10 am
Annual Broadview Egg Hunt is open to children up to age 10. Children will join together at Broadview Center to look for eggs and meet the Easter Bunny, who made an appearance last year on a fire engine! Free refreshments are available for adults.


Westlake, City Recreation Center (outdoor playground area), 28955 Hilliard Blvd, 1 & 1:30 pm
Annual Easter Egg Hunt and candy scramble hosted by Westlake Town Criers. There will be two candy scrambles: 1pm, ages 4-6, and 1:30pm, ages 7-10. Children ages 3 and under can participate in a separate egg hunt. Eggs are redeemable for stuffed animals and special prizes. Balloons and refreshments will be provided, and there will be a special visit from Peter Cottontail! Call 440.888.6783 for information.

Westlake, Crocker Park, March 31st @ 11am & April 1st @ 2pm
Come to the 2nd Annual Easter Egg Hunt at Crocker Park to collect candies and coupons and hunt for the golden egg! *Bring your own basket!*


Old Brooklyn, Grace Church, 2503 Broadview Rd., 1-3pm
Come for the FREE Annual Easter Egg Hunt at Grace Church in Old Brooklyn. There will be about 2,000 eggs to hunt for as well as an appearance by the Easter Bunny, crafts, and a message about the true meaning of Easter. Ages 0-10. *Bring your own basket!*


April 7th

Granger Township, Fire and Rescue Dept, 3737 Ridge Rd, 1pm

The Easter Party for Granger Children will feature the Easter Bunny, who arrived in style on a helicopter last year!! He will arrive promptly at 1pm, and his arrival will be followed by a candy scramble. There will be FREE candy, prizes and refreshments.