New Year’s Eve this year will likely feel rather different from the NYE celebrations that came before. We are saying goodbye to the year from hell, but we are also ushering in 2021 as quickly as possible. Granted, a turn of the calendar doesn’t magically rid us of the scary news that enters each of our bubbles. But even the illusion of hope, the faint promise of a coming year that could be an improvement on the horrors of 2020 — that is worth celebrating.
Given the bizarro lives we lead today, we decided to put together a list of some great, safe ways to ring in the New Year with your family. Celebrate, toast to good health, and recognize the gifts and blessings we have all around us.
1. Make a Festive Cocktail
Undoubtedly, some of us have been utilizing the quarantine and shelter-in-place lifestyle as a vessel to explore all things alcoholic. But December 31st is a special night, and a special night calls for extra special cocktails, be it a champagne margarita, a mimosa float, mulled wine, or apple cider old fashioned. Tap into your inner mixologist and give your tastebuds an adventure!
2. Host a Video Call with Loved Ones
Zoom, Skype, Google Meet, and FaceTime have allowed family and friends to maintain some semblance of normalcy in this crazy year. Why not throw together one final shebang, as we all breathe a collective sigh of relief.
3. Watch the Ball Drop
For the first time since the inception of the famed ball drop in New York city’s Times Square, the event will happen without spectators. But don’t let the lack of crowds deter you from watching, the ball drop is nearly as American as Apple Pie! Besides, is it really a NYE party if you don’t count down?
4. Virtual Toast with Your Friends
Raise a glass to surviving 2020, toast to those that passed — a virtual toast is a fantastic way to kiss 2020 goodbye. Schedule one with your family, another with your friends, and ring in the new year virtually.
5. Watch Movies All Night Long
A festive celebration isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but fortunately, a movie marathon is always a great way to spend the night. So break out the popcorn and snacks, and cozy up under the blanket. Watch something that makes you feel good, something that reminds you of happier times, or choose a film that gives you all the feels.
6. Dance Party
Get your groove on this Thursday night! Cut some rug with your pets in tow, throw in a slow dance for good measure, or just throw all caution to the wind. Sayonara 2020!
7. Create a Delectable Charcuterie Board
Even if your fancy meat and cheese spread is only enjoyed by a select few, developing the perfect Charcuterie concoction is half the fun. Throw in some tasty crackers and nuts for good measure, and fly your Master Chef flag high.
8. Whip Up a Decadent Dessert
Body goals can wait for 2021. Treat yourself this New Year’s Eve, and give yourself a tasty treat to look forward to as we close out the year. Two scoops? Make it 3, you’re not driving. (nobody is)
9. Play a Board Game (or two, or three)
Board games offer a welcome respite from the world, and there are so many to choose from! A poker game is always a hit, while Cards Against Humanity activates the dark humor fans in your audience. Apples to Apples is perfect for the little ones, while Scattergories is fun for all ages. A personal, recent favorite? Just One (trust me).
10. Karaoke
Few things bring a group together like a night of karaoke. Whether you have a fancy machine or just your favorite songs and some voices to belt them — singing your lungs out can be a truly cathartic experience unlike any other. Go crazy with it with costumes and props!
We hope this list helps you cook up some fun ideas for celebrating the end of 2020 and the beginning of 2021. What do you plan to do to ring in the New Year?
Contributor, designer & admin for JohnHart Gazette.
