With the new year approaching fast, spirits are high and buzzing with joy. For some, 2020 went by like a strike of lightning; for others, it was an agonizingly slow year that had them counting down the days on the calendar. It seems like a lifetime ago that we were ringing in 2020, completely oblivious to what the year had in store for us. However, we can all agree that although it was a year for “unprecedented” circumstances, everyone was given the chance to slow down and take stock of what really matters.
So, before we bid farewell to the current year and usher in a new one, it’s customary to plan the perfect New Year’s event. While it is strongly advised that we all stay indoors for the holidays, that doesn’t mean that we can’t still have fun. New Year’s Eve at home can be just as exciting as going out to ring in the new year – you just have to get a little creative.
If you’re looking for ways to bring the New Year’s celebration to your home or virtually, then this ultimate guide to planning the perfect celebration is here to help! Who knows, you might even turn this cozy stay-at-home New Year’s Eve into a tradition long after the pandemic is over.
Get Dressed Up
Preparing for New Year’s Eve at home should follow the same protocols as New Year’s Eve anywhere else. Toss aside your comfy leggings or sweats; the odds are that you have grown way too attached to them over the past year anyways. New Year’s Eve is the perfect excuse to finally wear your best outfit, do your hair, and feel your best! Start the New Year off on the right foot.
Call Your Family and Friends
The holiday season is defined by the people you spend it with. It’s the time when family, distant relatives, old friends, and new friends come together to express their love for each other. This year, keep this custom going by scheduling Google Meets, Skype, or Zoom chats with your loved ones.
If you’re ringing in the New Year alone, set up a group video call right before midnight to countdown with your friends and family and raise a glass to 2021!
Shake Up Some New Year’s Cocktails
New Year’s Eve at home wouldn’t be the same without your favourite spirits. Break out your best cocktail glasses and home bar accessories, because the drink you toast at midnight matters! We suggest creating your own cocktail from Spirit of York’s collection, or, if you’ve perfected the art of cocktail making, share your knowledge with friends and family this New Year’s Eve at home by hosting your very own virtual cocktail making class. This way, you can all raise your glasses and toast to the new year together!
Create an Elaborate Snack Board
The odds are that you won’t be cooking a feast this New Year’s Eve, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t treat yourself by preparing an elaborate snack board. You can never go wrong with pairing appetizers and finger food with cocktails!
Get creative with styling the perfect charcuterie board – all you need is a variety of local cheese, cured meat, olives, pickled vegetables, dips, fresh fruit, crackers and bread! Just in case you make a surplus of delicacies, there are so many easy ways to reuse holiday leftovers.
Pop Confetti at Midnight
No extravagant firework display to admire this year? No problem! Stock up on confetti poppers, noisemaker party horns, and charming little sparklers to ring in the new year with just as much excitement and fervour as you normally would. Remember, it’s a celebration!
Let the Games Begin!
Let the good times roll with your family, partner, or roommates by hosting a board game night this New Year’s Eve at home. Whether it’s Monopoly Deal, Cards Against Humanity, or Twister, you’re bound to create long-lasting memories.
In the event that you’re celebrating with your loved ones through a video call, challenge them to a virtual games night. With loads of interactive options available online, it’s the perfect way to get everyone talking, drinking, and laughing.
Movie Night
Not all New Year’s Eve countdowns need to be ritzy and extravagant. Sometimes, a nice quiet night in with your favourite people is all you need to make the event special. Recreate the full cinematic experience complete with blankets, tons of pillows, a projector and pixie lights. Sit back and relax with a cocktail in hand, and your favourite snacks at your side.
Story Night
Wanting to take a step away from the big screen this New Year’s Eve at home? Cozying up to read a book, sharing stories with your partner, or recounting your fondest memories with your loved ones is just as fun! Go for a full-fledged slumber party style and let the stories take you to faraway places.
Watch Televised New Year’s Eve Countdown Events
No matter where you are in the world, you’re only a few clicks away from ringing in New Year’s Eve at home via a virtual countdown. Due to the ongoing pandemic, New York’s notorious ball drop event is still scheduled to happen, so use your device to stream this momentous event from the comfort of your own home.
Plan Your 2021
Spending New Year’s Eve at home can be seen as an opportunity to do some deep thinking and self-reflection. Put 2020 behind you and focus on the year ahead. Use this time to plan your New Year’s resolutions and set short and long-term goals. Set your 2021 up for success by manifesting positive energy to turn your dreams into reality.
Get Into the Holiday Spirit By Giving Back
New Year’s Eve at home presents an opportunity to establish new traditions. This year, by staying home and supporting your local distillery, you will be giving back to the community at the same time.
Spirit of York believes that the spirit knows no boundaries, and that’s why we strive to craft quality products that go above and beyond exceptional standards. Aside from creating exquisite world-class products, we believe in giving back to the community. In line with this, we are committed to dedicating 10% of profits to local and social-cultural groups within the Greater Toronto Area. Contact us today to book a tasting tour and to learn more about our community efforts.