Independence Day is not just about fireworks. For most, it is a good day to celebrate togetherness with family and friends, and it heralds the start of summer. It's a time to get patriotic and look back at our country's history. What it also can be: a time to save without skipping the festivities. Here's how.

1. Look for deals around town. If you're feeling sluggish, wake yourself up with a tall cup of Starbucks coffee—maybe for free. They gave away free cups of coffee last year and chances are they will again. There are also restaurants that offer special promotions, like the Applebee's Kids Eat Free on Independence Day weekend. Check out local stores and restaurants or stalk their Facebook pages for announcements on money-saving deals.

2. Stock up on coupons. The 4th of July is a coupon-loving time. Local businesses are in fierce competition for your dollars, so there are often lot of coupons flying around—coupons that will save you as much as 25 percent on appliances, coffee, pet supplies, food, hotel rooms and summer clothes.

3. Have a picnic. Why not have a simple picnic in the park instead of an all-out sunset barbecue party? Family and friends can enjoy a simple barbecue dinner, with beer for the adults while the kids have some outdoor fun. Pick a good vantage point where you can see the fireworks, but away from the crowds. If you're celebrating with other families, save more my having eveone go potluck.

4. Check out free events in your area. Just about every city, county and state in the U.S. hosts a variety of free events on July 4 or the days leading up to it. These may be musical concerts, county fairs and other events. They alos may include fireworks displays. Just search online, and your bound to find cool, free events nearby.

5. Go DIY. If you are hosting a party, make the decorations yourself. You can easily create an eye-catching and stunning table centerpiece with materials you have lying around. For example, if you have uncooked rice, food coloring, mason glass jars and tealight candles, you can make these centerpieces. Or try out these lanterns made with stickers and a little paint. Finally, check out what people are pinning on Pinterest to get more ideas on how to spruce and liven up your July 4 festivities.