Host a Frugal New Years Eve Party

When you think of New Year’s Eve parties,  you might picture something glitzy, sparkly, over-the-top glamorous and think, I could never afford that. That’s often what I’ve thought when I considered having one. But you can host a frugal New Year’s Eve party that’s still fun and fabulous.

The most important part of New Year’s Eve is spending it with family and friends, enjoying each other’s company. Welcoming the new year doesn’t have to be expensive. These tips will help you stretch your budget so that you can have an amazing time with them, without having to break the bank.

How to Host a Frugal New Years Eve Party

7 Tips for Having a New Year’s Eve Party on a Budget:

1. Cut costs on food by starting the party later in the evening. No need to serve a full dinner AND snacks/appetizers later on. You can even make it potluck style and ask guests to bring their favourites with them. Look for discounted foods packages intended for Christmas gifts that you can use for serving at your party.
2. Instead of setting up a full bar or even providing bottles of champagne, stretch the alcohol by making a delicious punch. Check out these champagne punch recipes. 
3. You don’t need to spend money on elaborate decorations. Let the Christmas decor do double-duty. To add a little New Year flair, add in some trays, baskets, and glass vases of party hats, horns, and other colourful items from the dollar store. Balloons are festive too! Or put out paper (or paper cups to make mini hats), glue, scissors, glitter, sequins and other crafts supplies from the dollar store and let guests make their own.
4. Don’t have enough glassware or plates? Once again, the dollar store can be a huge help – you can pick up some extras or buy some paper and plastic disposables. Or ask around and borrow some from friends.
5. Music is essential for a New Year’s Eve party. You don’t need to run out and buy new CDs. Just create a fun playlist on your computer.
6. Add in a little fun. Party games such as these pop culture trivia printables or Minute to Win It will get everyone laughing. Another great activity is a photo booth. It doesn’t have to be expensive to set up. Hang up a sheet or create a backdrop out of colourful paper. You might even find a piece of glitzy fabric in the remnant bin at the fabric store. The party hats and horns you already have make wonderful props but if you want more, ask your guests to bring along any hats, boas, or other suitable items with them. Of course, the dollar store is another helpful place to look for inexpensive costume items.
7. When it comes to your outfit, keep it simple. Wear an outfit you already have but add a festive touch with a glittery scarf or new piece of jewelry you pick up from a thrift shop.

Most of all, have a good time and your guests will too!

Happy New Year!