[ManyHats]

We were planning to have DS's bday at the local McDonalds but due to unforeseen temporary financial constraints, we've had to change plans.
DH suggested a casual BBQ at the park with just direct family and close friends = 10 adults, 5 kids.
Now, our budget currently stands at $50-$100. Hoping to squeeze it into the lower spectrum of the scale. Bday cake has already been taken care of and is not included in the budget.
Any ideas on how we can make this work?

[jaluke]

I would have a few packets of chips and dips to begin with and then keep it simple with sausages, buns and salad. Maybe a few drinks (fizzy, juice depending on ages) and a few small lolly bags (again depending on ages of kids attending - if young maybe a few homemade biccies/muffins). We often hold BBQ's for special occassions and just tell people if they want fancy meat they need to bring it themselves (and our friends say the same when they are hosting)- no-one has ever had a problem with it. although to get fancy you could get a few prawns to BBQ and maybe some felafel (not sure of spelling) for any vegetarians. A park is a way better choice that McD's in my opinion - mainly due to the excessive noise factor in those party rooms. Have a fun day.

[jaluke]

also to make it a bit more fun you could have some egg and spoon, sack, and three-legged races. Might sound a bit naff but this can actually be fun for all ages and adults and kids can easily compete against each other. Maybe have some little prizes to give out.

[Pearson]

sausages, onion, bread, lettuce and tomato, sauces.
chips n salsa (you could make pico di gallo)
biscuits and cheese
BYO drinks
Big tub of cordial for the kids

I think the idea of the 3 legged races and egg n spoon are fantastic!
Pass the parcel with newspaper, and have the special gifts in there lollies

[zlca_mummy]

My Ds13 still talks about 'the best party I had' when he was 8 - he was obsessed by bikes (still is) and wanted to do a bike ride with his friends.
As a compromise, we invited his friends to bring their bikes to local park that has lots of paths around and a great playground. We did a sausage sizzle - literally sausages in bread with sauce, could of bowls of chips and dips, birthday cake and drinks.
The kids had a blast they were all too busy thundering about in their bikes to eat much and all the parents commented on what a relaxed afternoon it was!
Probably spent a total of $40 for 12 kids and 6 adults. We did this not because of financial constraints but that is what he wanted and it was great.
Just put on the invites come along for a sausage sizzle and fun!

[MrsShine]

Where do you live OP?

We have a Campbell's Cash n ' Carry near us, or even if you have a Costco? You can get really good deals on soft drinks & crackers, chips etc. and stock up on cheap paper plates & cups & sauces while you're there.

Also, not sure how much time you have but shop around for the meat - a lot of small independent butchers will do deals on pre ordered meat, especially since you'll prob be buying 2 dozen or so.

Same with bread, local bake houses often have lovely fresh bread (& even rolls) and a fraction of the cost the large supermarkets sell it for.

Talking of McDonald's, not sure if they still do this but they used to hire/loan those massive drink dispenser tubs for sports clubs etc. that would be reflect for cordial.

Borrow family & friends folding tables & chairs if you don't have any.

Grab balloons & streamers from a $2 shop

I love the idea of a cheap & cheerful BBQ - I'm sure it will be a great day!

[ManyHats]

Thanks so much everyone for the ideas! Much appreciated :)And you've certainly given me lots of ideas. The park has a playground and grassed area for the kids to play on so should be good. I'm starting to think that I should have gone for the park idea in the first place!

We will definitely do a sausage sizzle, loved them when I was a kid and still do now