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We've been using the Entertainment coupon books since we were married in 1985. (In Utah they are often referred to as “Happenings books.”) As struggling students the only way we could spring for a real night out on the town, was if we got a deep discount. (Seriously, if you've been in graduate school with children, you know what I'm talking about!) These coupon books gave us the bargains we needed then, and they are still an easy way to save lots of money.

Last night I got a notice that the 2011 coupon books are on sale for 17 short hours at 52% off plus free shipping! Until midnight on St. Patrick's Day (March 17), you can get the current book for only $17 and pay no shipping. [Note: I do not know what time zone will be applied, so don't wait until the last minute and miss the deal.] Just go to the Entertainment site and enter your zip code to find your local savings book.

The coupon books offer steep discounts at restaurants, amusement parks, theaters, sporting venues, tourist attractions, general shopping (Old Navy, Target, Petsmart, Sherwin-Williams, Borders, etc.). There are loads of 50% off coupons and the buy one get one free is standard fare. Some are for explicit dollar values, such as $10 off your next purchase. If you go to the explicit book you'll be ordering, you can see exact details of the included coupons.

If you'll be traveling, these books are a great way to reduce vacation costs, too. On one trip to Hawaii, I purchased the Hawaii coupon book. We literally saved over a thousand dollars food, attractions, shopping, and even on our hotel! (You can't go to Hawaii and miss Hilo Hattie's. Yes, there's 25% off coupon for that.)

Whether you are looking for bargains in your home town or trying to make your vacation more affordable, check out the Entertainment coupon books. And get in on the 17-hour sale before it ends!

Alison Moore Smith is a 61-year-old entrepreneur who graduated from BYU in 1987. She has been (very happily) married to Samuel M. Smith for 40 years. They are parents of six incredible children and grandparents to two astounding grandsons. She is the author of The 7 Success Habits of Homeschoolers.