If you’re the one designated to have the 4th of July barbecue or another get-together at your residence this summer, the cost can quickly add up. While it may not be easy, you can set up a plan to make sure that you throw an affordable party that is also fun and safe for everyone attending. If you are also a recovering alcoholic, the goal is to remain sober and avoid setbacks and relapse as often as possible. Here are just a few ways that you can keep your summer holiday party safe, within budget and get everyone involved in the fun.
Throw An Alcohol-Free Holiday Bash
One thing’s for certain, and that’s for many people, the holidays are a time to celebrate with family and friends. Along with celebratory events, alcohol is often involved. If you or your spouse are a recovering alcoholic and have also completed residential inpatient treatment, the temptation can be very daunting, especially if you’re experiencing a lot of stress and anxiety. It can be easy to slip off of the wagon. Make it known to guests that your party will be alcohol-free. Not only does this set a different tone for guests and make it more welcoming for children, it will also save you money. Another option may be to ask guests to bring their own alcohol-free drinks or mock cocktails to share with other party-goers.
Locate A Free Venue
If you can’t have the party in your own backyard, you’ll have to find a large enough area to accommodate all of your guests. Some suggestions that may be helpful include:
- *A local park with a pavilion and tables.
- *Your church banquet hall.
- *A friend or neighbor who is willing to let you utilize their backyard space.
Choosing a free or low-cost venue to have your party will shave a lot of money off the cost of renting a hall as well as catering equipment. It may be a good idea to choose an establishment that prohibits alcohol use. This will make it an alcohol-free environment so that the temptation isn’t there for those who may have urges to use alcohol. Also, these venues get scheduled fast so make reservations as early as possible.
Ask Friends And Family To Bring A Dish To Pass
Keeping your budget in check prior to the launch of your holiday party means not spending a lot of money on food. While you’re hosting the party and should supply the main dish, don’t be afraid to ask others to help. Set up a tentative meal that will coincide with your healthy main dish. Make a list of recommended sides and desserts. Ask each guest or family to bring a dish to pass from the list. Keep in mind, you may need to have backup food just in case the family can’t make it or are late on arrival. This will help avoid costs from getting out of control and ensure that there is enough food for everyone.
Set Up Fun And Cheap Games For Guests
While not every party needs games to keep the festivities lively, it does help to have something for guests to do while waiting for entertainment or fireworks. Try to avoid going out and spending a fortune on a croquet set, horseshoes or other commercial products. Come up with cheap games that are affordable and fun for all ages. Some examples include:
- *Lawn Twister—using old cans of spray paint to create a faux pattern on the grass.
- *Non-alcoholic giant pong using buckets and large rubber balls.
- *Beanbag ladder or Frisbee toss game with handmade bean bags.
- *Softball or football
- *Dodgeball
- *Pictionary
There are plenty of games, including cards that can be played without the addition of alcohol involved. Also, to keep things clean and fair, try to avoid gambling and playing games for money. Instead, visit your local dollar store and collect small prizes for your guests.
Keeping your summer party simple and alcohol-free creates a fun and safe environment for everyone, as well as a memorable event to remember.
