Although most of us will be glad to see the end of 2020, we can’t exactly see it out in style. For most of us, we’re forced to celebrate New Year’s Eve the same we spent most of the year – from the comfort of our own home.
After what can only be described as a train wreck of a year, the Christmas holidays came as a time for us be with friends and family, and just feel that little bit more normal than previous months have felt. Well, that’s what the November lock down was for, right? But after the ‘Tier 4’ bomb was dropped earlier this week, Christmas seemed well and truly cancelled (I can hear the Grinch laughing from here.) It seemed that with demotion of Christmas to just a day where you eat a fancier than usual roast, all other festive celebrations have gone out the window.
But it’s not all doom and gloom! For those who were never a fan of the nightclub New Year’s Eve (those of you who are – I’m sorry), are more than used to bringing in the new year from the comfort of your own sofa. And those who preferred a party round a friend’s house, there are still some ways to spend New Year’s together (without breaking lockdown rules.)
1) Have a New Year’s Brunch!
Why not start the last day of the year off in the right way – with a special brunch! What better time to indulge yourself with pancakes than NYE? And why not make them more decadent with festive flavours like chocolate and orange? Oh, and don’t forget the one thing every good brunch needs; Mimosas (and it’s never too early for champagne on New Year’s).
2) Get Dressed Up!
Just because we’re stuck at home, doesn’t mean we can’t make ourselves look fabulous! How else are you supposed to try out the new clothes and make-up you got as presents? Besides half the fun of going out is the getting ready stage, so you’re just cutting out the aggro of actually leaving the house.
3) Play a Game
Whether you decide to whip out the old family monopoly board, or jump on discord for a few rounds of Among Us with your friends, I can’t think of a better way to pass time than playing a game. Besides, what would NYE be without some friendly arguments?
4) Watch a Film
You’ve probably blown through the entirety of Netflix’s catalogue in the myriad of lockdowns we’ve had this year. But why not cosy up on the sofa and revisit one of your all time favourites? Light some candles, get the popcorn in the microwave, and grab a glass of wine!
5) Have a Festive Dinner
Who said that decadent roasts were just for Christmas day? Besides, pigs in blankets are too good to just be enjoyed once. Turkey, however, isn’t everyone’s first choice dinner meat, so take NYE dinner as a way to put your own spin on a Christmas Roast.
6) Video Call Friends and Family
I know, you’re sick to death of seeing people through your phone screen. But seeing as we can’t see each other this year, maybe one more family zoom quiz couldn’t hurt.
7) Take Some Pictures
If you’re lucky enough to live with friends or family, pull them together for a few pics. Maybe even get a few fun props just to spice them up a bit more – your insta feed would love them for sure!
8) Make a Toast!
What better way to send of 2020 than with some booze (and plenty of it.) It wouldn’t be New Year’s Eve without a glass of bubbly!
9) Watch the Fireworks
Although this year’s fireworks display has sadly been cancelled, there will still be a virtual show on the BBC, and Big Ben will still be chiming at midnight.
10) Try Something New
2020 has certainly been the year of new experiences. But it also left a lot of us with free time to be able to do some things we’ve wanted to do for years. But if you haven’t managed to try new things, don’t worry – it’s been an overwhelming year. However, there are New Year’s Eve traditions from all around the world that you could look at adopting for this year’s unique celebration. For instance, in Spain, they have the tradition of the twelve grapes, which consists of a grape during each chime of the midnight bell. The tradition is thought to bring you luck in the coming year, and I know we’re all looking forward to a better year in 2021.
