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How to Budget for a Taco Night Block Party

How to · Event

How to Budget for a Taco Night Block Party

Throw the neighborhood event of the year in September without the immediate hit to your bank account.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $350 before anything else
Across the 0% window $19.44/mo 18 months, no interest

How we got that: $350 spread evenly across the 18-month introductory window on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

September is the sweet spot for a block party. The heat is fading and everyone is back from summer trips. We should start planning in July to lock in a date and get the neighbors on board before their fall schedules fill up. It is about timing the prep so you aren't stuck in the kitchen while everyone else is outside.

We can spread the $350 cost over several months to keep the budget light. Using the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card (Citi) gives you a long runway to pay for the carnitas and folding tables without interest getting in the way.

This 0% interest offer is a deadline, not a permanent discount. If you still have a balance when the 18 months are up, the standard interest rate will apply to whatever is left.

The steps

  1. 01

    Claim your date

    Send out a digital invite or drop flyers six weeks early. Ask for RSVPs to get a head count for tortillas and lime wedges. This helps you buy exactly what you need and skip the waste.

  2. 02

    Rent the gear

    You will need extra tables and a decent speaker. Book these by August to avoid last-minute rush fees. Local party supply shops usually have the best rates for a single day.

  3. 03

    Use the 18-month window

    Put the $350 total on your Citi Simplicity® Credit Card (Citi). You get 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening. This breaks the total down to $19.44 a month.

  4. 04

    Shop the bulk aisles

    Buy your dry goods and drinks two weeks out. Bulk stores are better for heavy items like soda and chips. You can store these in the garage so they stay out of the way until party day.

  5. 05

    Prep the fresh stuff

    Buy the meat and produce two days before the party. Marinate the proteins overnight so the flavors set. You will have less work to do when the neighbors actually arrive.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

    Every figure we publish for the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card carries the date a person verified it against Citi and a link to where they checked. Intro windows and APRs change without notice, so confirm the current terms before applying.

    See Citi Simplicity® Credit Card terms →

Common questions

Do I need a permit for a block party?

Usually, yes. Check with your city hall about a month early to see if you need to barricade the street or pay a small fee.

How much food should I buy per person?

Plan for three tacos per guest. It is always better to have leftover salsa than to run out of tortillas halfway through the night.

Is the interest rate really zero?

Yes, for the first 18 months. Just make sure you pay at least the minimum every month to keep the account in good standing.

What if I miss a payment?

This card does not charge late fees, but it is still better to stay on schedule. Paying late can still hurt your credit score even if it doesn't cost you a penalty.