Five ways to celebrate New Year

Although New Year’s Eve is going to be pretty different this time around for many people, there are still plenty of ways to make the most of the night, have fun and send 2020 packing. Everyone is sure to be missing house parties, restaurants, club nights and the good old pub, so here are five alternative ways to spend the evening, whether it’s with family, house mates or solo.

Watch a NYE-themed movie or special

There are plenty of excellent films and series episodes that include New Year’s Eve scenes that will make a great watch for the evening. When Harry Met Sally, everyone’s favourite romcom, culminates as the clock strikes 12  and About Time begins at a NYE party. Shows with special themed episodes include Friends, Gossip Girl, The Office, Peep Show, Modern Family and How I Met Your Mother. Since it’s not possible to go out and celebrate normally, watching it on screen is a good way to feel a part of the fun and look forward to 2021.

Have a dance

New Year’s Eve for many people means a late night of partying. However, just because the dance floor will be a lot emptier this year, it shouldn’t prevent those who love a boogie from doing so. Those who live with friends can create a party playlist and clear the living room to ensure hours of dancing and giggles. Those who live alone can video call friends and try and do the same. 

Host a Zoom quiz of the year

Though some people may be a bit Zoom quizzed-out this year, it could be a fun way to round up the end of a strange time and a chance to (virtually) see family and friends. Get everyone involved by asking them to each create a round and make it interactive and visual by designing power points to screen share. 2020 certainly wasn’t a year short on news or stories so there’s sure to be tonnes of content for a quiz to make it to the countdown.

Get dressed up

Regardless of what direction the night takes, NYE is a time to celebrate, so why not make the most of it and dress to the nines? Just because everyone is stuck at home, it doesn’t mean they have to stay in comfy clothes. Get out the gown being saved for a special occasion, wear the favourite shirt and use the night as a chance to feel good with a fun outfit. On the other hand, some might be relieved at the idea of not having to spend ages getting ready, so staying comfy is also a great way to celebrate the end of 2020 in true 2020 style. 

Join a virtual party, countdown or event

There are going to be loads of different NYE-themed virtual events to join and there’s sure to be one that will suit everyone. The Times Square ball drop is being virtually streamed this year for all to enjoy and there are plans for the London fireworks to go ahead virtually. Search your favourite musician to see if they have anything planned for the night or perhaps look up a well-loved club night.

Lilly Subbotin