5 Unsung Holiday Movies for the Whole Family

Getting the family together in one place is our favorite part of the holiday season, but we know it can be a difficult task. Movie nights? That’s the ticket! Before you plan your next in-home cinema experience with the same old classics, take a look at these holiday movies available with Cash Back at Ebates—because how many times can you really watch “A Christmas Story” in your lifetime? We have selections for tots, tweens and teens, as well as movies that celebrate a variety of traditions and cultures. Grab these flicks while saving a bundle with a holiday-sale promo code.

For All Ages:

“Jingle All the Way” (1996, PG)

This action-packed slapstick movie is all about a dad (Arnold Schwarzenegger) trying to get the hottest toy of the season—one day before Christmas. If you’re an imperfect parent who bends over backward for your kids when it counts, you know this story all too well.

“The Preacher’s Wife” (1996, PG)

The late, great Whitney Houston stars with Denzel Washington, who plays an angel who comes to earth to help a pastor struggling to keep his church open. It may be a rom-com, but your kids will love the soundtrack and the message of hope and holiday magic.

For Little Ones:

“Curious George: A Very Monkey Christmas” (2009, TV-G)

Fact: Young kids will watch anything animated. However, there is just something about a mischievous monkey that will make them go bananas. In this holiday tale, George and the Man in the Yellow Hat can’t decide which presents to get each other, and time is running out before the big day. It’s a suspenseful one, but—spoiler alert—they figure it all out and have the best Christmas ever.

“The Night Before Christmas & More Classic Holiday Tales” (2008, Not Rated)

If you’re looking for a great before-bedtime movie, this one is perfect. Celebrity narrators read seven Scholastic storybooks, including Gary Soto’s “Too Many Tamales” and tales about Hanukkah and Kwanzaa.

For Big Kids:

“Eight Crazy Nights” (2002, PG-13)

A tale of redemption is a classic holiday theme. Add to that some musical comedy in the stylings of funnyman Adam Sandler, and you’ve got a not-too-edgy classic your teens will actually put the phone down for.

March 16, 2016

How to Get Kids Reading Over Spring Break

When it’s spring break season, anything school-related can sound like “homework” to young ears. Like the joke goes: if you want to see a kid on vacation laugh, ask them if they’ve read any good books lately. But there are ways you can encourage your kids to read during their spring break, and when you shop top stores through Ebates, you can earn Cash Back and find great savings while you do it. Here are our top five tips for getting kids reading on spring break.

1. Make it Special

To encourage reading at home, create a unique reading space to make reading feel special. Whether it’s a nook behind the couch, a shady spot under a tree or the perfect spot where they can cuddle up in bed, having a special place or accessory related to reading gives it a sense of importance and encourages imagination. Find a great deal on comfy reading pillows and kids’ rugs at Kohl’s, some LED String Lights at Macy’s, or a fun kids’ lamp at Walmart. Search for a kids’ room promo code at Ebates for extra savings.

2. Set the Mood

If your kids are out and about during spring break, try matching the book to the ambiance instead of the other way around. For example, ghost stories are perfectly paired with camping, as are survival/adventure stories for the young adult set or even nature-related poetry for the advanced reader.

3. Set a Trend

Reading is an adventure, and when you go on an adventure, it’s always more fun when you bring a friend. Buy two copies of a book, one for your kid and one for them to give away. This will allow your child to read along with someone else and have someone to discuss the book with. Find big savings on the hottest titles in young adult fiction and get Cash Back at Ebates while saving even more with a children’s books promo code.

4. Embrace Technology

While good old fashioned paper can never be completely replaced, reading technology is changing the way we read. We have books that read to you, eReaders that put an entire library in your pocket and smart pens that digitize your handwritten notes. It’s almost enough to make up for still not having flying cars. Search for eBooks coupons and promo codes at Ebates and get insider savings on the latest in reading tech.

5. Buy It for Life

Although the digital age is great for gadgets, and the best keepsake of a good book is the memories, holding a copy of your favorite book can feel like shaking hands with an old friend. If your child finds a book or series they fall in love with, consider getting hardcover copies for their bookshelf. Although dog-eared paperbacks are the most likely to survive childhood and college, a well-bound book can last for generations and it puts your child’s formative reading experiences close at hand.

Reading is one of life’s great pleasures and when you make it an engaging activity for your child early on, you will make a reader for life. As a bonus to our top tips for encouraging your child to read on spring break, here are eight classic children’s book titles that are perfectly good books to read for first-time independent readers (ages 8-10). You can find these titles and more at BooksAMillion, Abebooks, The Book Depository, and Better World Books. Plus when you search for a children’s books promo code at Ebates, you can find great spring savings!

February 25, 2016

6 Easy Ways to Save Big on Going to the Movies

It’s only February and there are already a ton of fabulous films out there in this year’s spring lineup. Whether you’re into lighthearted romantic comedies, superhero flicks or even scream-inducing horror movies, theaters are packed right now with star-studded titles that are just waiting for you. While this is exciting news for any movie buff, if your bank account has you trying to pick and choose which ones you’ll be able to see, you may be singing the budget blues rather than movie theme songs. Don’t start singing your sad tune just yet, we’ve got some good news for you! There are a bunch of super easy ways to save money when it comes to buying movie tickets, including finding an exclusive promo code on Ebates so you can get your tickets for less. Here are some fabulous insider tips that will help you find great deals so you can pick out movie dates for months to come. Check out these tips and get going to the movies and earn Cash Back at Ebates!

1. Cash in on Matinees and Saver Days at Your Theater

Have a flexible schedule or some time off midweek? If you’re searching for savings, midweek is the perfect time to catch a great deal on that movie you have been waiting to see. Can’t do midweek? You can get a great deal on weekend matinees, too! Most movie theaters offer special discount pricing for weekend matinees or movies playing during the day, Monday through Friday. The real bonus is that the theater will probably be free from rowdy kids and crowds so you won’t have to fight to find a great seat. You can just kick back and relax in peace while you enjoy your popcorn and movie!

2. Wait to Watch and Catch a Late Run Show

While it’s fun to catch a movie during its opening night or even during the first week, it usually also means that you are going to get caught in a line with the throngs of folks that also have the same great idea. While some folks may live for the midnight showings of the latest blockbuster, if you can wait a couple weeks to catch a screening, there’s a good chance you’ll save a few bucks. Aside from avoiding the crowd, waiting to see new movies can mean serious savings for your entertainment budget. Many theaters offer awesome discount movie tickets several weeks after the movie first premieres. Waiting also means that you can find out which movies get the best box office and critic reviews before you spend your money to see them. Win-win!

3. Skip the Shows With Extra Frills and Avoid Added Costs

Going to a movie in IMAX or 3D can be fun, but it will almost certainly mean paying extra to watch a movie. If you are willing to forego the fancy viewing experience, it can mean some major savings for you and your movie budget. Skipping out on the IMAX and 3D options is also a great choice if your family has young children that struggle with keeping the special 3D glasses on for the entire show.

4. Sign up for Theater Loyalty Programs

If you absolutely love movies, you’re in for a treat when you sign up for movie theater company loyalty programs. Big theater chains like AMC and Cinemark have awesome loyalty programs that will give you rewards points for every movie ticket purchase. If you live in an area with only a couple theaters or there is one special theater that you go to every time, loyalty program rewards will add up faster than you can believe. Cash your rewards in for awesome benefits like movie coupon codes for free tickets. Some programs even offer free upgrades at the concession stand on popcorn and fountain drinks.

5. Cash in on Price Club Discounts or Buy in Bulk

Did you know that if you’re a member of a shopping club like Costco or Sam’s Club, you can get great deals on discount movie tickets? It’s true! Big discount clubs will often have bundles of movie theater gift cards or discount tickets available at a fantastic price. Even if you’re not a member of a discount club, you can still get a great price on movie tickets for the whole gang when you buy in bulk. Check online or talk to your local theater to find out just how much you can save when you buy movie tickets in bulk.

6. Double Check for Specialty Discounts

If you’re a student, a senior citizen or a member of the military, then this tip is for you! Before you book your tickets, double check to see if your favorite theater offers discount movie tickets for these groups. Even if the movie ticket price only gets reduced a dollar or so, after about a dozen movies, you’ll have saved enough for a full ticket. Just don’t forget to have your ID ready when you head to the theater!

Now that you have our handy guide for saving a little extra on your entertainment budget, which movie will you and your friends go see first?

Prices and Cash Back percentages are subject to change.

February 24, 2016

How to Save on Entertainment and Event Tickets

Looking for great entertainment on a tight budget? Ebates has you covered! Check out these awesome insider savings tips to get out and see the shows you love at a price that won’t break the bank. Check out these sites that offer Cash Back and the best prices on entertainment tickets.

Fandango

Fandango’s movie ticket booking site offers all the latest and hottest cinematic features. With an incredible number of up-to-date movie listings and deals, Fandango is a fantastic place to score the movie tickets you want at a great price.

Savings Tips:
• Get freebies after you book by scrolling through the movie’s listing page. Some films offer free songs or other content downloads with your purchase.
• Check out a few different theaters and show times to cash in on special matinee prices.
• Have a movie coupon to use? Not all shows are eligible for movie coupons so double check before you plan your movie night!

Ticketmaster

When it comes to getting the best deals on the hottest event tickets, Ticketmaster is the place to go. Whether you’re looking for cheap tickets to go see your favorite comedian or that awesome indie band you’ve loved for years, Ticketmaster has the tickets you want at an awesome price.

Savings Tips:
• Head to the Deals section to check out the hottest sales and offers on event tickets all in one handy place!

Superstar Tickets

Whether you are looking for big league sports event tickets or cheap tickets to top concerts and theater events, Superstar Tickets has them all!

Savings Tips:
• Watch for special online savings, like a promo code for 10% off your next purchase.
• Looking for a show close to home? Save on travel when you check out Superstar’s helpful listings by location.

Entertainment.com

The name says it all! For over 50 years, Entertainment.com has specialized in providing remarkable savings on movie tickets, getaways, activities and attractions.

Savings Tips:
• Partnering with thousands of local and national brands and stores, Entertainment.com offers merchant promotions and money-saving promo codes so you can save up to 50% every day on the things you love to do.

Ticket Liquidator

Searching for tickets even after a show has sold out? Head to Ticket Liquidator to get access to the most sought after event tickets online!

Savings Tips:
• Sign up for Ticket Liquidator’s mobile club and get an instant coupon for $25 off your next purchase!
• Subscribe to the Ticket Liquidator email newsletter and get special deals and event ticket info delivered straight to your inbox.

ScoreBig.com

With prices too low to publish, you won’t believe how much you can save on event tickets online at ScoreBig.com. Get ready to unlock cheap event tickets when you shop shows and entertainment online at ScoreBig.com.

Savings Tips:
• Save up to 60% off when you name a price on the tickets you want! If they accept your price, you can score some serious savings.
• Keep an eye out for an unbelievable ScoreBig promo code and cash in on super cheap tickets online at ScoreBig.com.

Razor Gator

When you shop online at Razor Gator, you’ll be on the edge of your seat cheering for more before you know it. Featuring great deals on event tickets for sports, concerts, theater and more, you’ll get the tickets you want when you shop online at Razor Gator.

Savings Tips:
• Head to the Razor Gator blog for exclusive deals on tickets.
• Shop with confidence at Razor Gator thanks to their 100% authenticity and on-time guarantee.

With these tips, you’ll get top-notch entertainment for less. You can count on Ebates to help you find that special promo code for tickets and give you extra savings with Cash Back, so you can have a ball within budget.

Prices and Cash Back percentages are subject to change.

November 13, 2015

Top Toys You Have to Shop on Cyber Monday

If you haven’t already kicked off your holiday online shopping, Cyber Monday is a great time to start, especially when it comes to shopping daily deals on kids’ toys. To get your inspirational juices flowing, we’ve tracked down some of the hottest top toys so you won’t even have to ask your little ones what they desire most. Chances are, it is already on this list! Whether you’re holding out for Cyber Monday Toys R Us toys deals or prefer shopping at other big names like Walmart, Kohl’s or Best Buy, we’ve got you covered with this ultimate guide to holiday toy must-haves.

Toys for Babies and Toddlers

These top toys for your littlest ones promote learning through play and feature beloved characters like Doc McStuffins, Mickey Mouse and Thomas the Tank Engine! Find awesome toys for girls and boys who love to build or the best learning tablets to make the most out of screen time. Or, if you prefer no screen time at all but love the idea of interactive learning, the Smart Toy Bear is perfect. Flexing their muscles is just as important as exercising their minds. Encourage movement and time outdoors with a super cool Thomas Tricycle.

Toys for Tweens and Teens

Choosing top toys for older kids can seem a little more difficult but it helps to stay on top of what’s popular in their worlds. The release of Star Wars: Episode VII is bringing about some coveted The Force Awakens toys for boys and girls who are just discovering this timeless franchise. Popular Netflix kids’ shows like Project Mc2 also have a line of toys sure to fly off the shelves. Don’t forget about Barbie! She always has new accessories that Barbie-loves can’t resist, like her Saddle ‘N Ride Horse. The hottest video games are always an easy win when it comes to putting smiles on little faces come Christmas morning. Guitar Hero is making a comeback with a new release and Lego video games are as popular as ever.

Which of these top toys are you hunting down for the kids on your shopping list? Remember, whatever you’re looking for, you can always get it with Cash Back at Ebates and save big with toy coupons and toy promo codes this season. Let us know with a comment below!

Prices and Cash Back Percentages are subject to change.

September 8, 2015

Ebates Spotlight: Our All-Time Favorite Childhood Books

“A book is a gift you can open again and again.” – Garrison Keillor

Teach a child to read, and you give them a gift that lasts a lifetime. Today is International Literacy Day and we at Ebates decided to honor it with a little trip down memory lane. Some of our wonderful employees told us about their absolute favorite childhood books, ranging from classic fairy tales to modern spoofs of those timeless stories. Take a look at what books we rounded up and let us know all about your favorite children’s book in the comments, whether it’s one from your own childhood or a new favorite you read to your little ones.

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What are some of your favorite childhood books? Let us know in the comments!

Prices and Cash Back Percentages are subject to change.

November 25, 2014

Holiday Gift Guide for the Bookworm

For those shopping for avid bookworms this seasons, we’ve arranged seven great items for gifts. Besides a book or e-reader, a cozy blanket, tea, or book-inspired necklace (this reminds of us the White Rabbit’s pocket watch from Alice in Wonderland) make for a creative and thoughtful present for the bookworm.

Prices and Cash Back Percentages are subject to change.

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February 11, 2014

Favorite Cinematic Couples

With Valentine’s Day coming up so soon we have epic love on the mind. Nothing shows the ups and downs of love better then the cinema, but we were unable to pick a single favorite fictional couple. Our list is by no means comprehensive, but it covers a variety of fictional love:

Moonrise Kingdom told the story of first love. It was quirky, fun, and entertaining. The young couple, Sam and Suzy, decide to run away together. We find it impossible not to enjoy this young love.

Pretty in Pink. We couldn’t really make this list without including a John Hughes film. The young couple, Andi and Blane are considered an unfit match due to different social classes. Andi, played by Molly Ringwald, is from the ‘wrong side of the tracks.’

Casablanca. While our classic film knowledge is a bit limited, this love is undeniably epic. The backdrop of 1940s Casablanca, this love story unfolds dramatically, but is doomed to fail.

Romeo and Juliet. We know that this is a painfully obvious choice, but we had to include it. Whatever version suits your fancy, this love story is as old as it is timeless.

Lady and the Tramp. This animated classic makes us nostalgic for the Disney films of our childhood. Like the aforementioned Pretty in Pink, this couple endures despite the pressure of societal norms.

The Notebook. This is a modern day classic. If you haven’t seen it (c’mon, who are we kidding, everyone has seen it), stop what you are doing and watch it now. It tells the story of a love that endures a lifetime with the highest highs and lowest lows.

What films would you include on this list?