Slash Summer Barbecue Expenses with These Creative Tips

Throwing a Fourth of July barbecue is a fantastic way to enjoy the best parts of summer with a laid-back vibe. However, hosting can sometimes seem daunting because of the costs and stress involved. Don’t forget, as the host, you’re meant to relax and have fun, too! You can definitely throw a party for about 20 people for the price of a nice dinner for four at a restaurant, roughly $50. Here’s how to keep things affordable:

GO FOR A POTLUCK
Food is usually the biggest part of the budget for any get-together. You can save a lot by organizing a potluck. Potlucks are a big hit, especially during summer events. Use an invitation site like Evite to create a list of necessary dishes and ask each guest to bring a side or dessert that can serve about 7-10 people. This way, you can focus on the main dish while others help with the rest of the meal.

BUY IN BULK
If you’re handling the main dish, think about cost-effective choices like hot dogs or burgers. To save even more, stick to just one of them. Set up a tempting hot dog bar with a range of toppings like chili cheese, grilled onions, or the traditional ketchup and mustard. For burgers, you can buy patties and buns in bulk at Costco, as it often comes out cheaper than local grocery stores. Keep toppings simple with basics like lettuce, onions, and tomatoes.

BYOB
To cut costs further, go for a BYOB format. Alcohol can really drive up the cost of the party. Offering just one signature cocktail, like a hard lemonade or sangria, could be a nice touch, while guests who want beer can bring their own.

DIY LAWN GAMES
Although good conversations are a key part of gatherings with family and friends, adding some simple lawn games can make your Fourth of July barbecue more fun. Consider easy games like bocce ball or cornhole, which you might be able to put together with things you already have. Classic games like a card deck, Twister, or a volleyball net can be borrowed or homemade. Plus, you might want to download the Cards Against Humanity game for some grown-up laughs.

Do you have any budget-friendly ideas for a summer barbecue? How do you plan to celebrate the Fourth of July?