What are you doing on New Year’s Eve?

The real problem with New Year’s Eve (no, not what to wear) is that it is right after Christmas. Chances are you are financially (not to mention socially) tapped out by the time the big night rolls around.

There is no reason not to celebrate though. Here are some low-effort, low-cost ideas to help you ring in the New Year.

Hang in

True confession time. I actually love spending New Year’s with my kids (although I know that the years days are numbered when this feeling will be mutual.

We often just gather a bunch of neighbours together, let the kids stay up way too late and hang out in our comfy clothes with a few drinks and simple snacks. Pretty low-key, but still celebratory.

A few bonuses here: you don’t have to shell out cash for babysitting, fancy clothes or cabs. It’s come as you are within walking distance from home.

Head outdoors

Bundle up in your winter woollies and go for a nighttime skate or snowshoe. Pack a “picnic” with snacks, warm drinks and maybe even a bottle of bubbly to toast to the New Year.

Play all night

Host a small get together with some friends with a karaoke machine, video game tourneys or board games. Now that you’ve taken care of the entertainment on the cheap, get your friends to help shoulder the cost of hosting by doing pot luck and having folks BYOB.

Heading out?

Maybe this is your night to get dolled up and head out on the town. Reduce your spending by ordering a bunch of appetizers or tapas to share with friends. This is filling, yummy and generally less expensive.
Seek out restaurants and clubs that offer a “meal deal” or a prix fixe menu that includes your courses as well as the evening’s entertainment. This kind of bulk buying can help save you money.