Tips For A Fun And Frugal Fourth

No matter how you spend Independence Day weekend, it’s likely to cost money. Whether you will be traveling, entertaining or simply staying home with family, the Fourth of July is a time of celebration, and celebrations can be pricey.  But it doesn’t have to be! Here are some tips to cut costs without trimming the fun!

1. Keep The Guest List Small OR Go Potluck Style! Planning to have a barbecue? One simple way to keep your costs in check is to avoid inviting too many people. The more people you have over, the more food you need to buy, the more drinks you’ll need, etc. A smaller gathering might be more fun anyway, because it will give everyone more of a chance to talk and really enjoy one another’s company. But if you are a social butterfly and just can’t choose between friends, go the potluck route and have everyone attending pitch in!

2. Borrow Items You Need Short on punch bowls, dishes, tables, chairs, glasses or other party staples? Rather than rushing out and buying a whole bunch of stuff that could clutter your home, ask some of your guests to let you borrow those items for that evening.  Disposable plates and silverware can be convenient, but it can be pricey and fill up the landfill.  Borrowing these items will save your pocketbook and the environment…a win/win!

3. Stay Safe Don’t bother to spend money on potentially dangerous – and in some cases, illegal – fireworks. Even if the fireworks themselves don’t set you back too much, an unexpected trip to the emergency room could cost you hundreds if not thousands of dollars. Attend a free fireworks show in your area instead, or splurge on a few boxes of inexpensive sparklers for the kids. They’re just as much fun, anyway!

No matter how you celebrate Independence Day, having a safe, fun and festive holiday experience can be done on a budget. There is no need to go overboard! At the end of the day, the real fun is more about being with family and friends.

Don’t forget to follow Honor on Twitter @honorcu!  Tweet us and let us know what you want to hear us talk about on Mason Jar Monday next week using #askhonorcu!

To listen to 97.5 Y-Country’s Wild Bill and Honor’s Scott McFarland talk about frugality on the Fourth, listen to the Mason Jar Monday episode below.