Hosting a Fourth of July barbecue is the perfect way to soak in summer’s finest moments amid relaxation, enjoyment, and entertainment. Nevertheless, playing the host for such an event can sometimes feel dauntingly expensive and stressful. Remember, though, as the host, you too should enjoy the festivities! It’s perfectly possible to host a gathering for about 20 people for the rough cost of a restaurant meal for four, say around $50. Here’s how you can refreshingly cut costs for your summer grill party.
MAKE IT A POTLUCK
The most significant expense in any social gathering is the food. One solution to trim down this expenditure is arranging a potluck. Potlucks are popular and widely accepted,
especially during summer holidays. Utilize an invitation site like Evite to list out the required items and ask each guest to bring a side dish or dessert enough for about 7-10 people. This way, you can allocate your focus on the main course without worrying about the rest of the meal.
BUY IN BULK
If you are in charge of the main course, budget-friendly options like hot dogs or burgers are excellent picks. To save more, limit your choice to either of them. Prepare a tempting hot dog bar complete with a variety of toppings such as chili cheese, grilled onions, or the classic ketchup and mustard. For burgers, make bulk purchases at Costco for patties and buns, which tend to be cheaper than local supermarkets. You can keep the toppings to basics like lettuce, onions, and tomatoes.
BYOB
To further cut costs, insist on a BYOB event. Alcoholic beverages like beer can significantly inflate the party cost. You can offer to make one specialty mixed drink, like hard lemonade or sangria, and for those who prefer beer, they can bring their own.
DIY LAWN GAMES
While conversations form the backbone of most family and friend gatherings, adding simple lawn games can spice up your Fourth of July barbecue. Opt for basic games like bocce ball or cornhole, which you can put together using items you might already have. Traditional items like a pack of cards, Twister, or a volleyball net can be borrowed from friends or even created at home. Don’t forget that you can also download the Cards Against Humanity game for some adult-friendly entertainment.
What are your budget-friendly tips for hosting a summer barbecue? And how are you planning to celebrate the Fourth of July?
