I love any occasion that calls for food, family, friends, and fireworks, so the Fourth of July is pretty high up on my list of favorite holidays. To me, it signals the real start of summer and sunshine-filled afternoons. Holidays are about having fun and celebrating, not necessarily splurging. There are plenty of ways to save a little extra money, even if you find yourself responsible for party-planning this weekend. Check out a few of the tips listed below to keep the festivities budget-friendly…
1. Host a potluck. Stocking up on groceries and preparing tons of food can be expensive and time-consuming. Invite friends and family over and ask them to bring something to contribute – a side dish, dessert, plates and napkins, etc. It’s always nice to have an assortment, especially when you don’t have to do all of the work!
2. Skip the booze. Alcohol can definitely liven up a party, but it doesn’t necessarily mix well with outdoor grilling and fireworks. You’ll save money by eliminating it from your shopping list, or by having a limited selection available (think a bottle or two of wine or a case of beer).
3. Decorate for cheap. The dollar store is my favorite place to get cheap decorations. You can find anything from festive plates and glasses to streamers and table centerpieces. And you guessed it… it won’t cost you more than a buck a piece! It’s also not necessary to go overboard. Save even more by limiting your decor to themed napkins, paper plates, and cups.
4. Check out fireworks for free. Many local parks don’t charge admission to watch their fireworks show. If you live close enough, you can probably even see them from the comfort of your own home! We also love to check out different vantage points around town that will give you the best view – parking your car on a street nearby won’t cost you a thing, and you’ll avoid the crowds.
5. Other ways to save – sales galore! Stores almost always use holidays as prime sale times. If you’re in the market for a larger purchase, or even items like clothing and housewares, it could be a good idea to scope out prices. Spending money seems contradictory when you’re trying to spend less, but you could save more in the long run if you buy when the price is right.
Will you be hosting a bash on a budget? How do you keep things simple and fun without overspending? Share your tricks with us!
