Summer is here and the Fourth of July is just around the corner. It’s exciting to get a day off in the middle of the week and take some time to celebrate our freedom. The fourth of July can be a time of fun and festivities but if you’re not careful, it can add up quick. Here are some budget-friendly ideas for celebrating the Fourth of July on the cheap.

1. Have a picnic in the park

Get your friends together and have a picnic in the park. Ask everyone to bring a different dish, bring a blanket, and relax in the sun with friends. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to enjoy time with friends. What better day than a holiday when most people have off to get the gang together? For your part, scout the deals at the grocery store and buy in bulk if it makes sense.

2. Head to the beach

The beach is a standard go-to on the Fourth of July. If you don’t mind some crowds, it’s a budget-friendly way to spend the day. You get sun, sand and water and don’t have to spend an arm and a leg. Many beaches have firework displays at night, so get there early to get a good spot. Ahead of time, scout free parking in the area or take public transportation there to save on exorbitant parking fees. Pack a lunch and some snacks, sunscreen, your towel, a book and maybe some cash for ice cream. The beach is a classic way to enjoy the Fourth of July and won’t cost you a ton.

3. Host an adult slumber party

When’s the last time you had a slumber party? If you’re having a hard time remembering, perhaps it’s time to host an adult slumber party. Host one of your own 4th of July parties! Get your girlfriends together and enjoy all of your favorite summer movies. You can watch your favorite flix or watch something like Independence Day to celebrate the day.

Aside from watching movies, talk to your friends about everything you’re grateful for when it comes to your freedom. If you can’t see fireworks where you are, watch some on TV. Hosting a slumber party is a fun way to get your friends together and relax and enjoy the day.

4. Do nothing

Have you ever thought, “Okay, this holiday I’m going to catch up on laundry, cleaning, X, Y, Z…”. Yeah, we’ve all been there. How about instead of pressuring yourself with a never-ending to-do list on your day off, why not do nothing? Yes, nothing. Make no plans. Have no schedule. No place to be. Enjoy the day off with your inbox quiet and without the nagging feeling of your to-do list. Spend the day as you please. Watch Netflix. Sleep until noon. Read a book. Do whatever you please and take a full day off adulting to do whatever you want. Because you can.

5. Enjoy free festivities

The good thing about the fourth of July is that many cities have free festivities. There may be free concerts, 4th of July parties, free parades or fairs in the city to attend. Many have free firework shows, you just need to find a good spot. Find out what free festivities are happening in your area by typing “July Fourth activities in [your city]”. Check Facebook events, the newspaper, online events calendar, and Eventbrite.

These free festivities help you take advantage of your city and enjoy what it has to offer. You can be out and about with others at your own pace and leisure.

Final word

This Fourth of July commit to your financial freedom too and don’t spend a ton on this one day. You can use these five suggestions to have fun on the cheap. If you want additional help in getting your financial life free, get in touch with us to meet your new B.F.F.

5 Ways to Celebrate the Fourth of July on the Cheap