As much as I love getting dolled up in sequins, and trust me, I LOVE sequins and all things that sparkle, there is just something refreshing about ditching the hoopla of going out on NYE!
Living in Minnesota, you can always guarantee that NYE will be insanely cold. So I decided to ditch the sparkly get up, overpriced drinks, and cover charges to spend it at home with my loved ones.
Going on 5 years, my boyfriend Eric & I have our own tradition of having a relaxing night in so I thought it’d be fun to share some things of what we do and some new ideas of things you can do. All of these work great with family, friends, & significant others too!
A Year in Review Playlist
Spotify does an amazing job of giving you your 2018 top songs playlist but creating your own is fun too! Think back on any concerts, road trips or fun memories from 2018 and add as many songs as you like! Here’s a look into my 2018 Spotify playlist below!
https://open.spotify.com/user/122695785/playlist/0xailyNrCVZSB70zrrhvf2
Pillowfort + Pj’s
Yes, you may think this one is for the kids but honestly, I LOVE doing this every year (and so does Eric!). Who doesn’t love feeling like a kiddo in comfies all night?! Just make space in front of your couch and take off the back cushions and line them on the floor against the couch. Then layer with tons of pillows and blankets of all sizes. Voilá!
Balloon Pop Countdown
Cater this one to your audience! Take balloons and blow them up for each hour or half hour as a countdown. Before inflating, write either a memory, resolution, or game on a small piece of paper and stick inside the balloon. Pop one every 30-60 mins to reveal what’s inside! If you don’t have balloons on hand, use an envelope. And, if you need some game ideas, google some “Minute to Win-it games.” This will definitely keep the night going!
If this is too much work for you (yes, I know some of you won’t do this) just have a traditional game night! It’s one of our favorite things to do. Whip out some Catch Phrase, Yahtzee, Scattergories, or even Monopoly.
Snacks on Snacks on Snacks
If you’re staying up all night and starting early, you’re going to need some fuel. I look forward to this night because I just buy a ton of snacks that are quick and easy to munch on all night.
Some of my go-to’s are below:
- Shrimp Cocktail
- Meatballs
- Charcuterie Board
- Chips + Dip/Salsa
- Ham + Pickle Rolls ups (Definitely a midwest thing!)
- Veggie & Fruit Tray
For a completely different route, try cooking a nice meal together with friends or family! We love to do Steak & Lobster too.
Champagne Toast
Since it’s NYE, after all, you can’t forget a champagne toast! Whether you get a $5 bottle of Cooks or a nice bottle of Veuve Clicquot nothing seals the deal of end of the year without a glass of champagne.
What is your favorite thing to do on NYE? I hope you enjoyed some of these quick ideas and have a safe and cozy NYE, whatever you do!
You’re so cute!!!!