Independence Day is not the only opportunity you have to throw a great summer party. You still have a few more weeks until the school bells ring to take advantage of the time you have by throwing you and your friends the PERFECT summer bash! Focus on the 3 basics that will make the event pop; Decorations, food/drinks, and games!

Decorations

Now I know you may think that Walmart is the best place to go for deals, but if you're looking for cheap, first stop by your nearest Dollar Tree. And for large quantities go to Party City or Costco.

Dollar Tree = Money Saver

-Streamers

-Balloons

-Water Balloons

-Table cloths

- Balloon weights

-Glow sticks

Party City = Quantity

-Cups

-Plates

-Silverware

Food/Drinks

You can't get away with having only fruit or chips. Sorry that's not how parties' role. Not saying you need to go all out and buy mass quantities but do plan on feeding your guests.

Tips for saving money;

1.) B.Y.O.B (Bring Your Own Beverage)

2.) Make it potluck style! Ask your guests to bring a tray of some sort so you're not spending extra moolah on meals and side dishes and dessert.

Games

Sure, sitting around and just chatting with people is fine, and it is acceptable if it's just a night with your closest friends, but I know you...And you want this to a summer party that will never be forgotten! At least for the rest of the year...So go all out buddy! There are plenty of easy and CHEAP DIY indoor and outdoor games that just gives your guests the opportunity to chat over a little competitive game of lawn Tic Tac Toe! I give you two easy and cheap game ideas below but if you're hungry for more then check out Pinterest!

Yard Tic Tac Toe

Supplies needed:

Washable paint

Bean bags (Or get really crazy and use frisbees!)

Donut Eating Contest

With your hands behind your back, reach to the donut above you and try to be the first to finish it without touching it.

Supplies needed:

String to tie to donut

Donut

Something to hang them from (Make it even more competitive and give them only a minute to eat the donut)

Good luck to you my fellow party hosts! One last piece of advice I can give you in order to throw the greatest summer bash ever, is to just have FUN! Put the stress away when the day gets here and enjoy the company! You deserve it!