Take it outside

Summer’s just around the corner, and there’s little need to spend much time inside (that’s what winter is for). We love the idea of ushering in the warm weather with a good party, but shelling out big bucks for things you may use once is just silly. Head to one of Chicago’s many Family Dollar or Dollar Tree locations to stock up on party goods—and spend more cash where it really matters: on food and booze.

1 Don’t let the bees and flies devour your food. These stylish food tents, with floral patterns and neon colors, keep the critters at bay. $1 at Dollar Tree

2 Battery-operated hanging lamps illuminate your table after the sun sets. $1 at Dollar Tree

3 Coordinate your tabletop presentation with napkins, plastic cutlery—even heavy-duty soak-proof plates—in assorted colors. $1 at Dollar Tree

4 Keep things chilled with these truly frozen plastic margarita glasses; pop ’em in the freezer the night before for optimum effect. $1 at Dollar Tree

5 Whimsical serving trays make eating chips and salsa even more fun. $1 at Dollar Tree

6 Keep sodas, juice and other beverages chilled and easy to serve in two-quart plastic pitchers. $1 at Dollar Tree

7 Don’t let ice melt in a plastic bag; colorful 208-ounce ice buckets keep it all together. $1 at Dollar Tree

8 No need to lug around a massive grill; this 18-inch charcoal burner has 200 square inches of grilling space and even has its own stand. $10 at Family Dollar

9 Don’t bother wiping down the table—just fold and toss these plastic table covers when the party’s over. $1 each in assorted colors at Family Dollar

This party costs just $23!

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