July 01, 2009 Connect Special

    What would the summer be without a barbecue, some fireworks and a backyard full of family and friends to celebrate the country's independence?
    For many people July 4th (July 1st for Canada Day celebrants) is the official kick-off to the summer entertaining season, and they plan on making the most of the holiday by planning festive celebrations. But will the financial crunch of today's economy take a bite out of July bashes this year? It doesn't have to. There are plenty of ways to host a bang of an independence day party without spending too many bucks.
    * Barbecue foods are some of the most cost-conscious ones available. Hot dogs and hamburgers will satiate those on the guest list and are reasonably inexpensive, especially when you buy in bulk. For even more savings per burger, purchase flash-frozen hamburger patties instead of fresh from the meat counter. Supermarkets generally discount buns and condiments close to the July 4th weekend, so browse through sales circulars for the best deals. If money really is an object, have a BBQ pot luck, asking guests to bring one dish each.
    * Send out e-vites to guests and save on postage and paper invitations. They're fast, environmentally friendly, and best of all: inexpensive to send.
    * Entertainment can be simple. If kids will be attenting the festivities, they usually can be entertained by a day in the backyard swimming pool or by setting up a sprinkler to keep cool. Adults will make due with conversation and some music playing in the background. If budget allows, you can purchase some outdoor games, such as water balloons, a limbo stick and a pinata.
    * Visit a 99 cents store. For those with this type of store in their neighborhood, shopping for party supplies can be inexpensive. These stores stock everything from colored plates and napkins, balloons, decorations, and more for around one dollar each item. If you don't have a 99 cents store, wholesale-type stores may also stock inexpensive items, or look to online retailers like OrientalTrading.com.
    *Reign in the booze budget. Alcoholic beverages can take a bite out of a budget, so stick to one or two options, such as malt beverages and beer. Or you can create one signature mixed drink that fits in with the theme of the party. Have a non-alcoholic version available for the kids and those designated drivers.
    * Do dessert. On a hot day, and after spending hours in the yard, a cool dessert will be appreciated. A cost-effective treat is prepackaged ice cream cups. Or find out if you can arrange to have an ice cream truck pass by your home the day of the party and make dessert the guests' responsibility.
    * Watch someone else's fireworks display. Fireworks are expensive and illegal in some areas. So leave the display to someone else. Public parks, boardwalks and municipal areas tend to put on fireworks shows every year. The key is to track down a display nearby on the day of your party. Then just bring your own chairs and enjoy the show.

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