The 4^th of July is when Americans celebrate the birth of their nation. Because it is essentially America’s birthday, it is cause for celebration! Sometimes the word “celebration” alone is enough to make you nervous enough to double-check your bank account, but you’ll be glad to know that there are plenty of frugal ways to celebrate Independence Day in style.

1. Throw a Frugal BBQ Party
   Nothing says the 4^th of July like a good old-fashioned cookout. You don’t have to spend a small fortune on food, either! Stock up on bulk essentials like burgers and hot dogs at your local warehouse club then ask friends and family to contribute a side dish or dessert. No matter what you end up eating, you’ll be enjoying the holiday with the people you love and that’s all that really matters.

2. Hit the Dollar Store for Decorations
   Liven up your household with some Independence Day-themed decorations without breaking the bank! Check your local dollar store or the discount section at Target for some red, white, and blue-themed decorations then make it a family activity to put them up. Don’t be afraid to get creative – you can even create your own decorations using construction paper and other craft items you already have on hand.

3. Be Smart with Beverages
   No cookout would be complete without a cooler full of cold drinks but watch what you spend because alcohol can get pricey pretty quick! If you’re serving wine, choose a boxed variety and pour it into a carafe if you’re worried about looking cheap. If mixed drinks are more your style, throw together a summery punch with inexpensive vodka, fruit-flavored schnapps, and sliced fruit. Pour in a little juice to top things off and you’re good to go!

4. Watch a Local Fireworks Display
   You don’t necessarily have to plan anything big to celebrate the 4^th. Have a simple dinner with the family at home or pack a picnic and head out to find a local fireworks display. Set out a blanket and spend some quality time together as a family while you wait for it to get dark. Nothing is better than free entertainment, and fireworks really take the cake!

5. Create Your Own Tradition
   If you don’t already have a 4^th of July tradition in place, create one! Maybe you can get the family together for an in-home screening of the movie Independence Day or have your own little cookout in the kitchen. Whip up a batch of sugar cookies and decorate them with red, white, and blue icing or make a batch of your favorite cupcakes!

6. Go to Your Local Parade
   Most cities and towns have some kind of celebration for Independence Day and many host parades! Gather up the family and put on your favorite red, white, and blue outfits and head out to see the parade. If you’re really feeling festive, grab some sparklers and decorate the kids’ faces with red, white, and blue face paint!

There’s no right or wrong way to celebrate the 4^th of July – all that matters it that you spend it with the people who are most important to you. Have a happy holiday!