Staying in this New Year’s Eve? You’re not alone—and that’s not a bad thing! Being home this New Year’s Eve doesn’t mean settling for less fun. It just takes a little creative planning. If you’re wondering exactly what to do on New Year’s Eve at your place, we’ve got you: Whether you’re hanging with family, friends, or just yourself, these new year activities will help you celebrate in style — with no crowds or cover charges in sight.
Easily plan your New Year’s Eve budget and start the new year off right with the MoneyLion app.
26 Budget-Friendly Things to Do on New Year’s Eve
1. Cook a special dinner
Cost: $20-$40 (or less if you use pantry staples).
Turn your kitchen into a restaurant for the night. Make it interactive with DIY pizzas, taco bars, or even a simple pasta dish with a luxe touch like truffle oil or fresh herbs. 🍽️
2. Make festive cocktails
Cost: $10-$30, depending on your bar setup.
Shake things up with signature cocktails or mocktails. Use what you already have on hand or opt for budget-friendly sparkling wine and seasonal fruits. A quick browse through apps like Pinterest can inspire easy-to-make recipes. 🍸
3. Write resolutions for next year
Cost: Free.
Set the tone for the year ahead by setting your intentions. Use colorful pens and paper to make it feel artful, or go digital with free templates. Bonus: Share resolutions with friends for extra accountability. 📝
4. Have a game night
Cost: Free to $10 (if you buy a new game).
This is one of the simplest, most guaranteed-fun New Year’s Eve ideas for families and close friends alike. Pull out your favorite board games, create a trivia round based on the past year, or go digital with free apps like House Party. No games? Use a deck of cards or make up your own challenges.
5. Create a photo booth
Cost: $0-$15.
Turn your living room into a photo studio with a simple backdrop (think wrapping paper or a plain sheet) and props like hats, sunglasses, and leftover holiday decorations. Let your phone’s timer do the work for Instagram-worthy shots. 📸
6. Watch fireworks
Cost: Free.
If your area allows it, watch fireworks from your yard or balcony. Don’t have a view? Stream them online for a similar effect. 🎇
7. Do a year-in-review reflection
Cost: Free.
Grab a notebook or your phone and jot down your favorite memories, biggest wins, and lessons learned. It’s a simple, meaningful way to celebrate your progress and reflect on your learnings.
8. Dance to favorite songs
Cost: Free.
Make a playlist of your favorite tracks from the year (or let Spotify do it for you) and transform your living room into a dance floor. Bonus: Dancing is a workout, so you’ll start the year off on a healthy note. 💃🕺
9. Make s’mores
Cost: $5–$10 for ingredients.
Who says s’mores are just for summer? Roast marshmallows over a stovetop or fireplace and enjoy this sweet treat. It’s cheap and cozy activity for any age.
10. Watch the ball drop on TV
Cost: Free (if you already have cable or a streaming service).
Turn on the New Year’s Eve countdown, grab some snacks, and enjoy the energy of Times Square from your couch—no freezing temperatures or dizzying crowds required.
11. Have a movie marathon
Cost: $0-$5 (if you rent a movie online).
Snuggle up with a stack of classics or themed movies. Platforms like Netflix or Hulu are great if you already have subscriptions, but sites like YouTube or Amazon Prime often have budget rentals. 📺
12. Do a champagne toast
Cost: $5-$20.
Break out the bubbly—or a non-alcoholic alternative like sparkling cider or kombucha. Not a fan of fizz? Whip up a batch of hot chocolate with a twist (think marshmallows or a splash of peppermint extract). Champagne too pricey? Try Prosecco instead. 🥂
13. Create a time capsule
Cost: Free.
Collect items like photos, letters, or small mementos to capture the year gone by. Store them in a shoebox or jar, and open it next New Year’s Eve. This is a zero-cost activity with priceless value.
14. Play party games
Cost: Free to $5 (if you buy supplies).
Classic games like charades or Pictionary are always a hit, but you can also DIY your own trivia or guessing games with items around the house.
15. Make wish paper lanterns
Cost: $10–$20 for a kit.
Write down your hopes for the new year, attach them to paper lanterns, and let them float (safely!) into the sky. If you can’t launch them, burning wish paper is just as magical. 🏮
16. Have a karaoke night
Cost: Free to $10 (if you rent songs online).
Use YouTube or karaoke apps to belt out your favorite tunes. This is the perfect activity for bigger groups — just don’t get too carried away and forget to pause for the midnight countdown! 🎤
17. Create a memory wall
Cost: Free to $10 (if you print photos).
Tape photos, notes, or other memories from the past year to a wall or poster board. It’s a meaningful way to reflect and celebrate the year.
18. Make predictions for next year
Cost: Free.
Write down your guesses for what might happen in the new year—personal goals, world events, or just fun wildcards. Seal them in an envelope to revisit next year.
19. Dress up fancy
Cost: Free.
Dust off your best outfit, even if you’re staying in. Whether it’s sequins, a bowtie, or just a new top, dressing up adds excitement to the night. 👗👕
20. Have a bonfire
Cost: Free to $10 (for firewood).
If you have a backyard or a fire pit, gather outside to stay warm and toast marshmallows. Add blankets and warm drinks for extra coziness. 🔥
21. Do a midnight kiss
Cost: Free.
A classic way to ring in the new year. Whether it’s with your partner, your pet, or just a cheeky kiss on the mirror, it’s a sweet tradition to keep. 😘
22. Create a playlist
Cost: Free.
Curate your favorite songs from the past year or create a themed playlist for the night. Bonus: Share it with friends beforehand and let them collaborate, and you’ll wind up with a playlist that’ll always feel nostalgic.
23. Make DIY party decorations
Cost: $5–$10 for supplies.
Use materials like paper, string lights, or leftover holiday decorations to create festive decor. A little effort goes a long way in setting the mood. 🎉
24. Plan a scavenger hunt
Cost: Free.
Hide small items around the house and create clues for your guests to find them. This is great for families or groups of all ages.
25. Make a gratitude list
Cost: Free.
Take a moment to write down what you’re thankful for. Sharing your list with loved ones adds a heartfelt touch to the night. ✍️
26. Have a dessert party
Cost: $10–$20.
Lay out a spread of sweet treats, from brownies to cupcakes. If you’re on a budget, make simple desserts like cookies or chocolate-covered pretzels. 🍦🍪
Celebrate New Year’s Eve Your Way
Got all your things to do on New Year’s Eve lined up? Now let the MoneyLion app help you budget for the fun—and kick off your year in style. Download it today!
FAQs
How can I make New Year’s Eve special?
Choose meaningful activities like a time capsule, game night, or a cozy dinner. Don’t worry if it’s not the most earth-shakingly inventive idea ever; remember just a little creativity and a personal touch go a long way!
What time should I start a New Year’s Eve party?
Starting around 8 PM gives you plenty of time to enjoy the night without dragging it out.
What not to do on New Year’s Eve?
Avoid overspending or overcomplicating your plans with elaborate setups or last-minute splurges. Instead, focus on simple, thoughtful activities that create genuine connections and lasting memories.
