Practical New Year's Eve Party Planning Checklists

Examples of New Year’s Eve Party Planning Checklist

This checklist is perfect for families looking to celebrate together while keeping the kids entertained.

Set a Budget: Decide how much you’re willing to spend on food, decorations, and activities.
Choose a Theme: Opt for a fun theme like “Under the Stars” or “Around the World” to guide your decor and activities.
Plan Activities: Include games like a scavenger hunt or a DIY craft station for kids.
Create a Menu: Plan a menu that includes kid-friendly snacks like pizza bites, fruit skewers, and cupcakes.
Send Invitations: Use online invitation platforms to send out fun e-vites to family and friends.
Decorate: Set up a photo booth with props, hang up string lights, and place balloons around the area.
Prepare for Midnight: Have noise-makers and party hats ready for the countdown, along with a sparkling cider toast for the kids.

Consider having a designated area for adults to socialize while kids enjoy their activities.
If you have younger children, plan to celebrate the countdown early.

This checklist suits those who want to host an elegant evening for friends and family.

Select a Date and Time: Confirm the date is set for New Year’s Eve and choose a start time that allows guests to arrive and mingle.
Create an Elegant Menu: Plan a sophisticated menu with hors d’oeuvres like shrimp cocktails, stuffed mushrooms, and charcuterie boards.
Choose Signature Cocktails: Craft a couple of signature cocktails to serve and have a non-alcoholic option available as well.
Send Stylish Invitations: Design chic invitations that match your party theme and send them out a few weeks in advance.
Set the Mood with Decor: Use candles, fairy lights, and elegant table settings to create a glamorous atmosphere.
Prepare a Playlist: Curate a playlist that includes upbeat songs to dance to as well as some soft tunes for mingling.
Plan for Midnight: Get a bottle of champagne or sparkling wine ready for the midnight toast, along with glasses for all your guests.

Encourage guests to dress up to enhance the glamorous vibe of your party.
Consider a fun photo booth with props that match your theme for memorable pictures.

This checklist is ideal for those who prefer a relaxed night in with close friends or family.

Create a Guest List: Decide who you want to invite and confirm their availability for a cozy night in.
Select Movies: Choose a mix of classic New Year’s Eve films and everyone’s favorite movies for the marathon.
Prepare a Snack Bar: Set up a popcorn station with various toppings, candy, and drinks like hot cocoa and festive mocktails.
Comfortable Seating: Arrange plenty of pillows and blankets to create a cozy viewing area.
Send Casual Invitations: Use a group chat or social media to invite friends, keeping it casual and fun.
Midnight Countdown: Plan a fun moment for the countdown, perhaps with sparklers or confetti poppers to ring in the New Year.
Post-Midnight Snacks: Prepare simple snacks like pizza or nachos to keep the energy up after the countdown.