For the first time in a long time, so many people have something to look forward to, and it's because we finally have the chance to wish 2020 away. With news of vaccines slowly being approved around the world and a light that has appeared at the end of a tunnel, we still have a ways to go but now, there's a promise for a better future. New Year's Eve has a much more emotionally-charged meaning this year because it's literally, and metaphorically, a way to keep the past in the past and move forward once the clock strikes midnight.
Most of us will be at home this year and while it might not feel very festive, that doesn't mean it can't be.
Plan A New Year's Day Brunch
For many people, planning something in the future helps quell the thoughts of the present. Therefore, planning a day-after brunch, even if it's only for the people in your household or 'bubble,' can be something to look forward to in the New Year.
A brunch is a perfect way to usher in a new year while celebrating over some great food and maybe some sparkly drinks. If nothing else, it'll keep us busy with cooking or baking and allow us to start off with some positivity... and full bellies.
Set Up Enough Snacks To Last The Entire Night Through
There's no sense in denying it - one of the best parts of New Year's Eve are the appetizers that get us through the night. Whether you choose to go fancy with some stuffed mushrooms and caviar or keep it simple with sandwiches and dips, there's no wrong way to set up food for a New Year's Eve celebration.
While gatherings are restricted this year and many states are not allowing inter-household socializing, there's no reason why you can't make food for one, a roommate, family, or a significant other. Another way to spread the joy via food is by baking enough appetizers and small plates to deliver to your family and friends as a socially-distant gift, then celebrate virtually while indulging later on.
Turn The Living Room Into A Campsite
Granted, we can't travel or stay overnight anywhere glamorous this year... but that's okay! It doesn't mean we can't technically sleep 'somewhere else,' especially if you take the time to transform one room in your house into a stellar space.
Add some fairy lights, make some paper lanterns, hang a disco ball, and create a fort or super comfy bed set up on the floor. It might not feel like the Hilton, but it'll be comfy, cozy, and different.
Take Advantage Of The Digital Age With Zoom Or Group Movie-Watching
Streaming services such as Netflix now offer ways to host virtual movie nights so that multiple people can watch the same TV show or movie at the same time and chat while doing it.
This is a fun way to pass the time and will make it feel as though the distance isn't all that far, especially if you're watching something that's loved by everyone. Alternatively, Zoom has expanded its time limit on video calls, so you could theoretically celebrate the final few hours of 2020 with loved ones and watch the ball drop together.
Plan A Virtual Murder Mystery Party Or Game Night
This year, My Murder Mystery is offering virtual murder mystery games that can be played as a group. They come with PDF guides, dialogues, and instructions, making these games easy and fun. Each one has its own theme and this is a fun way to still get dressed up, do something social, and pass the time until midnight.
Other games, such as Jackbox or the newest addition to the online multiplayer world, Among Us, offer ways to stay connected via game space. There are options for both PC and console, and streaming platforms such as Twitch make this even easier.
Get Dressed Up And Drink Fancy Drinks Anyway
Who says that you can't dress up anyway even if you're not going out? New Year's Eve was created to be fancy and making cocktails at home is much safer, anyway.
Not going anywhere just means that shoes are optional and the drinks are cheaper! For some extra motivation, set up a camera on a tripod and plan a photoshoot to say goodbye to 2020. Purchase some cheap New Year's Eve signs and go crazy!
Focus On What's To Come And Plan Out 2021
Resolutions are always part of New Year's Eve but why put more pressure on yourself when 2020 has already been such a stressful year? Rather than writing out resolutions, focus on motivational DIY projects that require no accountability, such as a memory jar or box. At the start of 2021, start writing down your favorite memories, printing out your favorite photos, and saving sentimental items to place in the jar or box so you can look back on them at the end of the year.