| When it comes to barbecuing, the 4th of July is | | | | one item for the party. Everyone understands |
| the biggest holiday of the year. Throwing a BBQ | | | | how much of an expense throwing a party can |
| in your own backyard, however, does not have | | | | be. Guests are usually so pleased to not just |
| to cost a fortune. You can still have a party that | | | | guests, they'll be happy to help make your hosting |
| stands out while also keeping within a reasonable | | | | duties easier. And if you just ask them to bring a |
| budget. All you have to do is keep things simple | | | | bag of chips, a bottle of soda, or a container of |
| but add some unique, cost-effective touches. All it | | | | potato salad, you're keeping the expense low for |
| takes is a few easy steps. | | | | them as well. |
| 1. Serve hot dogs. Hot dogs are a lot less | | | | 3. Make an easy dessert like cookies or cupcakes. |
| expensive than burgers, steaks, or chicken, yet | | | | These desserts are simple to make in large |
| they are always a crowd-pleaser. The way to | | | | quantities, and making them yourself is a lot |
| jazz them up is by offering a unique variety of | | | | cheaper than buying ready-made versions at the |
| toppings in addition to the standard ketchup, | | | | store. |
| mustard, and relish. Consider offering crispy onions | | | | 4. Dress up your party with easy decorations. |
| (the kind you find in a can at the grocery store), | | | | The Fourth of July makes decorating easier |
| chili, and cheese. Another idea is to prop up a sign | | | | because all you have to do is incorporate a red, |
| next to your buffet of hot dog condiments with | | | | white, and blue color scheme. String up red, white, |
| suggestions of flavor combinations your guests | | | | and blue streamers, set out blue tablecloths along |
| can try, such as New England-style (chopped | | | | with red cups, and white napkins and plates, or |
| fresh tomatoes, onions, mustard, and relish), | | | | buy a few inexpensive flags from your local dollar |
| Chicago-style (mustard, sweet pickle relish, | | | | store. |
| chopped onion, tomato wedges, pickle spears) and | | | | There's no need to spend tons of money on an |
| California-inspired (guacamole and salsa). | | | | elaborate Fourth of July celebration. Keep things |
| 2. Go potluck with your side dishes and drinks. It's | | | | simple, add in a few nice touches, and you'll have |
| perfectly acceptable to ask your guests to bring | | | | a great time! |