New Year's Eve Party Ideas

New Year's Eve is here and I thought why not give you some simple ideas. I usually pass the New Year with my kids so of course you have to plan some fun activities for them. Let's get started! I'd like to first focus on the main entrance. I would have a small side table setup (as shown below) with champagne filled glasses and lite decor with black, white and gold. To include the kids you can add smaller glasses and fill it with sparkling apple cider. You can also have a tray filled with the new year #s like glasses, party hats, noise makers, etc.

(photo credit: http://lovebugsandpostcards.com/new-years-eve-party-ideas/)


Next work on the dinner/appetizer table. I would keep it simple so that you as the host can enjoy the party and not spend so much time cooking away.

Appetizer:

Buffalo Chicken Cheese Balls


Recipe: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/aaron-mccargo-jr/buffalo-chicken-cheese-balls-recipe.html

Chips and veggie dip
(photo credit:http://www.caramelpotatoes.com/2012/12/14/chips-and-dips-new-years-eve-style/)
Now this is the way to setup your chip and dip for the party. Use the party hat as the bowl and any glass for your chip dip.

Fruit and Veggie Crudite on a Mirror:

Cool spin on fruit and vegetable platters by placing it on top of a mirror.

Dinner:

Greek Chopped Salad

Recipe: 

https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkpjdKg-PzDywPEvBpTvQvrnf7s0_QwMDoaehGhTEGhzFsvmaiOS1vji3Eowi-uvNSU0aIIwTQxo-HfyBNq3470Px47jtgGj4Cx5DFTavAEITySLbvPctHm_42-40tqIlUmAqENNUHxA/s1600/greekchoppedsaladpng.png

Lasagna
(Photo credit: allrecipes.com)
Recipe: http://allrecipes.com/recipe/worlds-best-lasagna/

Slower Cooker Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs:
(photo credit: pinterest)
Recipe: http://lecremedelacrumb.com/2014/10/slow-cooker-mozzarella-stuffed-meatballs.html

Taco bar for the kids

Photo credit: 

http://www.littlelessonsinabigcity.com/walking-taco-bar/

Dessert:

Virgin Colada Cupcakes

Recipe: http://mommybakesnj.blogspot.com/2014/11/pina-colada-cupcakes-by-mommybakesnj.html?m=1

I wouldn't go to crazy with dessert since usually your guest bring the sweets. To be safe you can always purchase pre-made pastries and cake. 

Setting up the table:

I would arrange the table similar to the photo below but instead of putting old pictures I would have a photo booth setup and print the pictures off your computer. Have each guest add their photos to the hanging balloons ;)

DIY photo booth ideas

Visit: http://www.onelittleminuteblog.com/2012/01/shiny-and-new-new-years-day-party/

To keep it simple just head over to the $1 store and purchase decorative wrapping paper for your background. For props just use the party hats, glasses, noise maker, etc. I love how this blog had everyone put their New Years resolution on a mini white board. Great and simple idea.

I was searching for cool activities to keep the kids entertained and I stumbled on this site:  http://www.sassystyleredesign.com/2013/12/85-new-years-eve-ideas-for-kids.html?m=1

I will definitely use this as my guide to make this a memorable day for the kids. Such as popping each balloon on the designated hour. If the kids are happy the parents will be too ;).

I just purchased this New Years kit at five and below for only $5

Free printables: 

http://www.classyclutter.net/2013/12/50-amazing-new-years-ideas.html