For many families, weekends look very different. Some use this time to relax, catch up on chores, and enjoy low-cost entertainment. Others dive into a whirlwind of activities that echo the upscale life they lead throughout the week.
Having spent time with both kinds of families, I saw a striking contrast—not in flashy cars or fancy homes, but in how they spend their weekends. Let’s explore five common weekend activities among wealthy families.
1. Private Lessons and Skill Development
Wealthy parents often focus on their children’s growth. Sociologist Annette Lareau calls this approach “concerted cultivation.” Wealthy families fill their kids’ schedules with lessons, whether it’s piano, tennis, or coding. They aim to build not just skills, but also confidence and connections.
In contrast, working-class families lean toward “natural growth,” giving kids more free time and fewer structured activities. This fosters creativity and independence, but the opportunities differ significantly.
I once attended a barbecue in L.A. where a young child effortlessly transitioned from soccer drills to violin practice. For that family, this was just another Saturday. For most working-class families, such lessons are often out of reach financially.
2. Weekend Getaways
For the wealthy, weekend trips to places like Aspen or Cabo are routine. It’s just another part of their weekend. Meanwhile, working-class families may need months to save for a simple trip. A vacation could mean driving a short distance and staying in a budget motel.
When I lived in New York, a family I knew casually mentioned they’d be in Paris that weekend. For them, it was just an extension of their weekend plans. For those on a tighter budget, travel feels limiting, often restricted to what’s affordable locally.
3. Fine Dining as a Family Norm
Dining out can be a special occasion for many families, often saved for birthdays. Yet, for the wealthy, a weekend might include a three-course meal at a Michelin-starred restaurant. For them, fine dining is part of life and teaches kids about culture and etiquette.
Working-class families might see these restaurants as distant dreams, visible only through social media.
4. Exclusive Club Activities
Country clubs and yacht clubs are out of reach for most. Membership costs can run thousands each year, serving as social filters for the rich. For them, these clubs aren’t just for recreation; they are networking hubs that foster connections and opportunities.
For working-class families, this idea can seem laughable. Their weekends might include swimming at a crowded public pool instead of a private club.
5. Wellness Retreats
Wealthy families often spend weekends at wellness retreats, enjoying yoga, meditation, and luxurious spa services. Health isn’t just about survival for them; it’s about optimization and self-care.
I once covered an artist’s weekend at a wellness resort. His family was there to “reset” with gourmet meals and personal trainers, a stark contrast to what many families might experience in their own homes.
The Bigger Picture
I share this not to glorify wealth but to highlight the stark differences in everyday life. While affluent families enjoy many luxuries, working-class families often cultivate strong community ties, creativity, and resilience.
Kids from working-class backgrounds learn valuable life skills without private lessons or lavish vacations. They often find joy in simpler experiences.
Recognizing these disparities helps us understand how money influences our perception of “normal.” It encourages us to reflect on the kinds of experiences we want to nurture, regardless of our financial situations.
As we think about our weekend plans, we can create our unique versions of normal that emphasize family, creativity, and connection over consumption.
