How to Save Money on Canada Day
Celebrate Our Home and Native Land Without Breaking the Bank
Jun 9, 2009
Canada Day is the perfect time to get together with your loved ones. But with all of the expenses, you might spend more than what you originally planned. Here, you'll discover ways you can save some dough for your family while having a good time.
BBQ Savings
If you're getting the family and friends together, this could get a little costly. These tips may require a little bit of work (ahem — you may have to wash extra dishes!), but in the end, you'll save some bucks.
- Reuse Your Dishes: Don't purchase disposable cutlery and plates. Instead, reuse any plastic dishes you have in the home. Sure, you'll have to wash them afterward, however, think of the money you can save for your family later on. If you do want to purchase some disposable or plastic dishes, then reuse them at the next family gathering.
- Say 'No' to Chips: When you're grocery shopping, don't spend money on potato chips or cheesies — even if they're very tempting! Instead, invest in some fresh vegetable sticks like carrots and celery. Get some hummus and you've got a healthy substitute to chips and dip. (Take note that spending money on chips AND vegetables doesn't count! Just pick up the vegetables and nix the chips completely.)
- Organize a Potluck: If you're hosting the event, don't feel like you have to serve ALL of the food. Ask each family or individual to bring a dish and/or drink. If you want to ensure that there's a good mix, organize an evite and have everyone choose what they want to bring from a list.
Carpooling Matters
Save gas and be eco-friendly by carpooling. Have each family chip in for a little bit of gas, which will still be cheaper than each individual or family driving on their own. Take turns driving, drive safe and don't drink and drive.
Kids' Crafts for Canada Day
If you think the kids are gong to get bored at the barbecue, don't spend money on new toys. Instead, search your home for crafty ideas. As suggested in the Suite101 article "Canada Day Preschool Crafts: Simple Ideas for Preschoolers and Toddlers to Make for July 1 Event" by Angela Krueger, June 10, 2008, get some paper bags and cut out some construction-papered shapes. This will keep the kids busy making Canada Day puppets; just don't forget the glue, markers, pencil crayons and tape!
Overall, Canada Day doesn't need to be expensive. You can keep the kids busy and save money on food, drinks and fuel. Keeping cash in your wallet may take some effort, but in the long run think about how much money you'll save for the family. Cheers!
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