If the New Year’s Eve celebration is in your home, and you’re trying to find a way to host an inexpensive party, there are lots of ways to have fun without looking like you’re on a budget.
While everyone has done the luau theme to death, there are rumours of tiki parties coming back from the reaches of kitsch-land. Here are some options that differ from the “Tacky Shirt” variety of party.
There is something comforting about pulling out the now long gone flip-flops, and tossing on lei, especially since spring seems so far away. You don’t have to build your own tiki bar, but you can decorate the room with (unlit) tiki torches, kitschy tiki cups, and provide a tropical theme to the evening with kabobs for finger foods.
Pyjama Party New Year
It could be amusing to see your nearest and dearest in their comfiest of sleepwear, but this might not be the best option if there are children present. A sleepover pajama party is a terrific nostalgic kick, and it does reduce the possibilities of drinking and driving: Hide the hard partier’s outerwear, and suggest they just sleep in your home, since they already have their jammies and a sleeping bag.
Board Game/Parlour Games for New Year
Have every guest bring his or her favourite board game or parlour game. If you have more guests than each game allows, break the party into groups of four (or whatever number your party can be most easily divided by without excluding anyone.) Rotate the groups, and make sure that everyone has their name and address on their game.
Safari Parties
There are different versions of this idea: you can make it a costume party, where guests can dress up like the Crocodile Hunter, or like a naturalist, with prizes for the best celebrity environmentalist costume. Make guests team up for a scavenger hunt, with stuffed animal prizes and various clues or questions revolving around endangered animals.
Fortune Telling Parties
Buy or make zodiac-themed piñatas decorations that can be knocked open later for entertainment: fill them with party favours for children and adults alike. String dollar store beaded curtains, and chose candles to set the mood: Follow up on your tarot, or buy a kit (usually a set of cards and an interpretive book) if you’re the one telling the fortunes.
Movie Theme Party
Choosing one film that everyone likes is a feat that is darn near impossible. Among a small group of friends, narrow it down by providing a short list in your invitation. You might be able to decide the evening with a quick emailed vote between a choice of three films. Rent or borrow the DVD, and have guests come in costume as their favourite character. Have foods that would be typical of the style of food eaten in the film.
Send in your ideas for an offbeat New Year’s Eve party! We’d love to hear from you!
