I have a friend who threw a fairly elaborate party last week. Wish I could have gone. He had a children's area with a petting farm, a clown , a magician, and his game room was playing kid's movies. He provided a lot of food as well as both adult and children's drinks, dj playing dance music, dance floor, and a live band. He spent around $6,000USD. He was savvy and got a good deal of everything. I imagine it would have been a 12-15,000USD party if he paid regular price on every service. The party was roughly 25% of his monthly salary...
Wow, that sounds like a lot of fun. It wouldn't work in Illinois with the outside activities...too cold.
I think, people nowadays are more money conscious. Most I know, will spend tomorrow's evening at home with a circle of friends. Including me.
Too many intoxicated drivers out there and no police in sight.