A night in to celebrate 2021 can be just as fun as a night out. As more families make plans to stay at home this year, these ideas will help you ring in the new year with style even if it’s just you and your kids.
Keep food and drinks simple.
No one expects to be served a five-course meal at a party, but you still need some yummy bites to nosh on. Serve a variety of appetizers (spinach and artichoke dip and a cheese board are favorites) and offer a signature cocktail or two. Since it’s New Years, you should keep the champagne flowing, but it doesn’t have to be top shelf. This easy recipe for Champagne Margaritas will liven up your party and help stretch your bubbly budget.
Stay comfy.
Strappy dresses and heels are fun, but comfort is key when you’re partying at home. Dress down or, even better, have everyone wear their coziest PJs. You’re guaranteed to feel more comfortable than you would at a fancy party, plus there’s no pressure to buy an overpriced outfit for the occasion.
Make the night sparkle.
New Year’s Eve decorations don’t need to be elaborate, they just need to be fun! Make your home as festive as the ball in Times Square by hitting up a party store for glittery tablecloths, runners and anything with sequins. If you’ve removed your holiday decor by NYE, make sure to leave twinkly lights up to help keep the space bright and sparkly. And nothing says “change” like a clock does, so search the house for timepieces and scatter them throughout the party. You can also try these New Year’s Eve crafts.
Have a game night.
Break out the board games and let them go to town! A little friendly competition will help children stay entertained. Games are still a fun way to mix up the normal routine. Chicago-based Cards Against Humanity, Exploding Kittens and Codenames are a few faves.
Predict the future.
A lot can happen in a year. What’s in store for 2021? Only time will tell, but it’s fun to speculate! Have guests each jot down their biggest hopes and dreams for the new year on a piece of paper (pro tip: the more ridiculous, the better!). Throw the papers into a bowl, then take turns guessing which partygoer wrote each prediction.
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This post was originally published on Dec. 15, 2018. It has been updated with the most recent information.
