4th of July Blowout - How to Host a Big Party with a Small Amount of Money

Throwing a big 4th of July party doesn't have to take a big chunk out of your wallet. You can host the best cookout and fireworks display for friends and family with little cash.

First of all, you need to plan a menu for your cookout. Hamburgers and hot dogs are the norm for any summer barbecue, however, keep an open mind. Fish Fry's are a must in the South. You can even catch the fish yourself to save the expense of purchasing them. After all, who doesn't love to fish? If you do plan on burgers and hot dogs, you can still save money on the side items and extras. Try using fresh vegetables from your garden, or if you don't grow a garden, buy vegetables and fruits (watermelon is a must for a cookout) from a produce stand nearby. The prices will be much lower than your local supermarket, and the taste of fresh fruits and veggies is always better than the store-bought variety.

Next, plan on spending a little on decorations. You can purchase plates, cups, tablecloths, etc., from your local dollar store or Wal-mart. These are very inexpensive, and you can choose decorated items, or even better, you can mix and match the red, white, and blue solid colors for even more savings. Normally printed and decorated items cost a little more. So buy red and white plates, and put a blue tablecloth on your table. See the pattern here? Also, let children help with the decorating. Buy construction paper, and have children make paper chains in red, white, and blue to hang on your porch or deck. If you really want to get into decorating, you can make paper lanterns to hang, also from construction paper. You can check out instructions here http://www.parents.org.uk/index.html?act_lanterns.htm&2. Also, small flags make great decorations, and are very inexpensive. Pick up a handful of these and place them on your table, deck, or put them in a vase or glass and use as a centerpiece for your table.

Now, you have the food and the decorations, you need the fireworks display. This is the most important aspect of your party. Plan to start your display when it gets totally dark, usually around 9 p.m. If you do it too early, your guests won't get the full benefit of your display. Also, plan to have something to occupy children, and some adults, to keep them from getting restless before the fireworks start. Sparklers or fountains are a great way for children to be part of the activities and these can be used at dusk prior to your "big" finale. Always make sure to provide adult supervision if children are playing with sparklers, or any other small fireworks. Let your guests know that your display will begin at the specified time, in case you have some that will only be coming for the fireworks. Plan on enough supplies to last about 45 minutes to an hour. Note that you can purchase fireworks from wholesale stores or from local suppliers. You can pick up packages for around $200 that will ensure at least 45 minutes of display. Prices vary, and packages vary, if you really want to wow your guests, you can opt for a more expensive package. These normally contain everything you need from the "big boomer's" to sparklers for kids. You can also purchase your fireworks separately to build the exact display that you want. The thing to remember is to have fun with it. Choose fireworks that will excite you and your guests. And, as always, be very careful when lighting and make sure that you are a safe distance away from buildings, trees, and people.

So, you see, planning a great 4th of July blowout doesn't have to be expensive. You can have a "pot luck" and have your guests each bring a dish to offset the cost. You can also have them bring their own fireworks to donate to the display. Everyone will enjoy the togetherness, and not having to crowd into a public firework display will be very inviting.

Have fun, be safe, and Happy 4th of July!!