How to plan (almost) FREE birthday parties!

I love to celebrate!  I am always looking for ways to save money on parties.  I have found a few ways to have almost free parties for my kids.  Here are a few tips:

1. Fire station:  Call your local fire station.  Our parish fire stations let people have parties at the station for FREE!  They even let us use their tables, chairs, and ice.  You can bring cake and decorations, but it is very cheap!  The kids had a blast climbing in the firetrucks and talking with the firemen.

2, Local Park: Parks are totally free.  Call your local Parks and Recreation to reserve a pavilion or table.  You can make it as inexpensive as you want.  You can just go and play or I've even had a friend have the ice cream truck meet at the park.  It turned out to be one of the most fun parties because the kids just love playing.

3. Donut Shop: We had my daughter's party at Dunkin' Donuts this year and it was so easy, inexpensive, and adorable!  My total bill was about $50 for donuts, juice, coffee, and the venue.  Of course, I added more, but it can be really inexpensive.  They were thrilled we had the party there and charged nothing for the use of the space.

4. Library: Have a little book worm?  Why not have a Dr. Seuss  or Fancy Nancy themed party?  The library is a great place.  Most libraries have community rooms you can reserve and some will even let you bring food! 

5. Home: I was reluctant to type "home" because it is the hardest place to have a party, in my opinion.  You have to clean twice (before and after), come up with games and food, and find a place for everyone.  It is FREE, but it is so much work!  It makes the "free list," though!