The 4th of July is a holiday that every red-blooded American loves. If you’re like most people, the simple mention of the holiday conjures up images of backyard barbecues with friends, family and loved ones. Top all of that with the warm weather of early summer and you’ve got an amazing day on your hands.
When you’re planning your own 4th of July party though, it can be easy to lose sight of what’s really going to be fun because of the stress! Planning any sort of event, especially if you’ve got a large group coming, isn’t going to be easy.
Use this guide to help you reduce the stress of planning an amazing 4th of July event for the people you care about. You can do it in a way that’s fun for everybody without losing your mind and blowing your savings in the process.
Get a Head Count
Whenever you’re planning a party, you need to know how many people are going to come. Even casual affairs like 4th of July barbecues require a head count if you’re going to be buying food and doing simple things like making sure you have enough seating for everybody.
Have invited guests let you know if they’re coming or not at least a week ahead of time. Getting a head count will make planning the week of your event a whole lot easier.
Plan Food and Beverages Early
Hosting a 4th of July party means lots of food and drinks, and if you’re hosting, you’ll have to buy most of it. Start planning to buy food about three to four days before your event so you have everything you need.
Make sure you ask guests to bring side dishes if you’re having a more casual potluck type of event.
Provide Party Favors
Party favors might seem a bit childish for a party designed for adults, but they can really be a lot of fun, especially on the 4th of July. Items like hand held flags can also get people in the spirit of the 4th of July.
You don’t have to send people home with party favors if you don’t want to, but they can be a whole lot of fun to have at an outdoor barbecue or event. Even things like party hats can help adults loosen up and have a little bit of fun.