Ring out the old, ring in the new! New Year’s Eve is a time to celebrate fresh beginnings, hope for the future, and reflect on the past year. Whether you’re flying solo or spending it with family and friends, there are plenty of ways to make the most of this special holiday.
Here are nine ideas to help you rock New Year’s Eve.
Plan a Karaoke Night
Let out your inner rock star and plan a karaoke night. Gather up your friends, choose your favorite songs, and get ready to sing your heart out. Don’t miss out on the snacks and drinks to keep everyone fueled throughout the night. And to make it picture-perfect, string up some twinkly lights and add some New Year’s Eve decorations.
Host a Grand Dinner
New Year’s night must be all things gooey, glitzy, and grand. If you want to pull out all the stops, hosting a dinner party is the way to go. Hire a private chef to cook a sumptuous meal. This way, you’ll get to dress and flaunt instead of making rounds in the kitchen. Plus, private chefs know how to make the ordinary extraordinary.
Finding a private chef is easy. Say you’re hosting a dinner in Los Angeles; just Google “private chef in Los Angeles” or “private chef near me,” and search results will find you a range of local chefs.
Organize a Game Night
Board games, charades, poker, whatever you’re into—make it a night to remember with your favorite people. Plan and design e-invites to get everyone in the festive spirit, and don’t forget the prizes for the winners. You can gift everyone festive socks, make your New Year’s Eve tiaras, or bake some delicious treats.
Take a Nighttime Stroll
Fireworks! Those magical light and sound displays always make for a memorable New Year’s Eve. There’s probably an organized show nearby if you live in a city. But even if you don’t, sparklers are always a fun way to ring in the new year. Wrap up warm, grab a friend or your entire squad, and enjoy the show. Don’t get late; you don’t want to spend your first few hours of the New Year stuck in traffic.
Have a Movie Marathon
Cuddle up with some popcorn and spend your night curled up on the couch with your favorite movies. Whether you want to watch classic New Year’s Eve flicks or just marathon your favorite TV show, it is a perfect me-and-myself kind of activity. You can also make it a fun drinking game by taking a sip whenever someone onscreen kisses someone at midnight.
Cook and Fondue the Night Away
Fondue is a classic New Year’s Eve dish, and it’s easy to see why. The sizzling sound of the oil, the smell of melted cheese, and the taste of fresh bread—what’s not to love? But if you’re in no mood to sweat over a hot stove, you can always order online from your favorite restaurant. Some must-try New Year’s Eve dishes include lobster, filet mignon, and champagne-flavored cupcakes. Don’t forget to sip on some sparkling wine or a festive cocktail as you countdown to midnight.
Attend an All-Night Concert
Neon flashlights, glow sticks, and confetti canon. An all-night concert is a perfect way to dance yourself into the New Year. With so many great artists touring around this time of year, you’re sure to find a show that’s perfect for you. Check out your favorite band’s website or a concert listing to see who’s playing near you. And if you can, book in advance to get the best seats in the house!
Spend Some Time with Nature
Reconnecting with nature is a soothing way to spend New Year’s Eve. It will help you reflect on the past year and set your intentions for the new one. Spend your night in the backyard or at a nearby park. Listen to the sounds of the animals and the rustling of the leaves. Inhale and let nature fill you with peace and calm. You can even walk in the woods or go for a hike. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can also spend the night camping under the stars.
Walk Around with Your Suitcase
Do you want the night to bring good luck for your future travels? Then try this old superstition: walk around your neighborhood with your suitcase three times on New Year’s Eve. It is believed to ensure a year full of adventures. And who wouldn’t like visiting the Bahamas, Australia, and Paris all in one year? Just keep your attitude positive, and anything is possible.