Throw a Great Fourth of July Party on a Budget

The economy is in a slump and everyone is looking for ways to save money right now, here are some great ideas to throw a great 4^th of July party while staying on budget.

Skip the Fireworks at Home

I live in Texas which allows a proliferation of fireworks stands at both the 4^th of July and New Years Day in most areas. My husband is a veritable pyromaniac and loves the fact that he can explode things. This allows him to bask in the oohs and aahs of both children and adult guests when he puts on a massive display in our yard.

Unfortunately, he would spend hundreds of dollars at the fireworks stand if he could. This year we will be strictly avoiding the fireworks stands and watching the community displays only. We are lucky that we can see two shows from our house but you can make a nice evening of going to your local event if you can't see it from your house.

Limit Your Guests

The easiest way to cut down on the cost of an event is to invite fewer people. Ask yourself who you really want to invite. You might stick to just family or close friends and make it more low key. If you know your guests well, this will also helps when you follow my next tip and ask them to bring something.

Call for a Potluck

When you issue your invitations, in person, by phone or email, you can ask people to bring something. Most people are perfectly willing to bring a side dish, drinks or other specific food item if you ask. If it is difficult for you ask, you can start by saying something like, "We are providing the hamburgers and you can bring something if you want...so and so is bringing sodas...."

Most people will take the hint and offer to bring something else. This way you still mostly control the menu but don't have to do it all yourself. Above all, make it clear that the party is BYOB. You are not buying the beer or other libations as the tab runs up quickly.

Look for Your Meat on Sale

Several weeks prior to the 4^th of July, most grocery stores run sales on jumbo meat packs. For example, at my grocery store right now bulk packs of pork loin and ribs only cost $1/pound. I can buy several now and freeze it. If you wait until the week of the 4^th, the sales may be over so shop early and freeze.

Cook Hamburgers and Hot Dogs Instead

You can get jumbo packs of hamburger and hot dogs fairly inexpensively and you can ask others to bring buns and fixings. This may be a much cheaper alternative to ribs and brisket if you can't find it cheaply.

Stay Away from Themed Plates and Napkins

It is much cheaper to buy plain plates, napkins and cups than it is to buy fancy decorated ones. No one will remember your plates or decorations so skip it. This can also be something one of your guests can bring if they offer.

The main point about having a get-together is a great time, not spending a lot of money. By following these ideas and adding your own, you can have a great time on the cheap!