Ideas For Backyard Entertaining on the Cheap

Whatever the calendar says, you know summer has arrived when people start wearing sandals and lighting up their barbecues. If you'd love to have friends over for a backyard party but fear what it might cost, here are some ideas for backyard entertaining on the cheap.

And, don't worry, it won't look like you skimped on anything.Use What You Already Have

Patio chairs looking a little dingy? Cover each one with a beach towel to instantly revive them and add a hit of colorful fun. A beach towel also makes a great table runner that's out-of-the-ordinary.

Use flowers from your own garden and vases you already own to help decorate the table(s).

Shop at the Dollar Store

You name it, Dollarama has your summer fun essentials and you won't find a better price anywhere.

A four-foot bamboo Tiki torch is just $2; you provide the oil.

Barbecue tools are just $2 or less. Find spatulas, non-stick vegetable grills, brochette baskets, bamboo skewers, and much more.

Citronella candles are helpful to keep bugs at bay, especially if you're entertaining at night. These are also $2 or less, depending on the size and the container they're in. (A fancier glass candle holder costs more than the Terra cotta ones.)

If you opt for place mats or a tablecloth, both are available at Dollarama. The round woven place mats are $1.25 each and flannel-backed vinyl tablecloths cost $2 each and come in two sizes; 60-inch round or 52 by 70-inches.

I always favor melamine dishes for the outdoors. Round dinner plates are just a buck each and the square ones cost $1.25 each. Acrylic glassware to add to what you might already have, are available for $1 for each large tumbler or $1.25 for wine and martini glasses.

Colorful melamine trays and other serving pieces range in price from a buck to two bucks.

While you're in the store, you'll see tons more stuff you may need, including an abundance of outdoor decorations to help dress up your yard.

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RELATED LINKS

It's Spring: Time to Clean Your Barbecue
Get BBQ Gear For Less at the Dollar Store
Find Many of Your Backyard Essentials at Dollarama
Instant DIY: Create an Amazing Outdoor Space


Marlene Alexander is a freelance writer and Dollar Store Diva. She writes tips and tricks for using the best that dollar stores have to offer.