How to Jazz Up Your Fourth of July Picnic on a Budget

Burgers, potato salad, sparklers, repeat. If you can’t tell one Fourth of July picnic from the next then check out these budget-friendly ways to jazz up your celebration, adding style without adding cost.

Serve Up Edible Eagles Tired of the same ole’ red, white and blue desserts? This year try serving up some Edible Eagles for a new take on patriotic sweets. The recipe is very affordable and requires basic ingredients like chocolate chips, large marshmallows, shredded coconut and Oreos. Use the simple instructions at familyfun.go.com to create your bald Eagle treats.

Go to Willie’s Picnic Instead
You can bet this will be a picnic to remember—for the 39th year in a row Willie Nelson will be throwing a Fourth of July picnic at the Fort Worth, Texas stockyards. Tickets are just $35 in advance for a full day of music and fun.

Add Flair to Favors, Drinks and Snacks
Boring summer staples look festive and fun when you throw in bakers twine and colorful party printables. Check out this free collection from FamilyFreshCooking.com that includes invitations and loads of gift tags.

Adopt a Vet
Make your picnic really count. Dedicate some of the money you saved by having a frugal gathering to helping those who have served our country. Through USAdoptavet.org you can buy a bracelet for $5, and the full donation will go towards supporting vets in your community and around the country.

Include a July 4th Bike Parade
Kids love parades and they’ll love being in one even more. Supply the family with streamers and small flags, and then let them transform their bicycles into USA on wheels. Score free clip art, spoke covers and other Fourth of July decorations from MarthaStewart.com. Ride in cavalcade to your picnic spot or jump on the decorated bikes once your meal is over for a little post-picnic cycle.

By Alison Storm

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