The clock counts down, the people get loud and the fireworks sound to ring in 2018. New Year’s Eve is a night of wild parties, fireworks and excitement. But this particular year freezing my butt off in the -30 degree weather, huddling in mall bathrooms and seeing fireworks that probably weren’t even going to work didn’t sound very appealing to me. I thought a night in was the best way to end 2017, so I spent the night cuddled up on my couch, watching Netflix with family and friends and eating all the sweet and sour junk food I could find. I used to always prefer going out, but staying home made this one of the best new years yet. Here are three things that I did to enjoy my New Years Eve at home.
1. Quality over quantity
Hanging out with a large group of friends or standing in a crowd seems fun. It’s easy to forget just how much fun you can have with your closest family and friends. I spent New Year with my friends and family. We spent part of the time telling crazy jokes and stories that will forever be engraved in my mind. Even if it’s just with friends, having a girls’ or guys’ night can give you the best and most memorable time.
2. Blasting some music
From songs by Taylor Swift to songs like “Empire State of Mind,” you can create a party atmosphere right in your home. You don’t have to throw on a dress that takes 10 minutes of squatting and jumping in your bathroom to fit into or freeze to get to a party. For part of my night, my friends and I turned on some of our favorite songs and danced in our PJs in the comfort of our own living room. The best part was that we didn’t have to worry about getting embarrassed in front of strangers; we could just be silly without feeling judged.
3. Relaxing!
Winter break is filled with day-to-day hangouts, catching up with friends and Christmas shopping and dinners, so there is very little time to just sit down and relax. Staying at home allowed me to clear my head, watch all the movies I never had the time to watch and enjoy a snack in the comfort of my PJs. Parties happen often, but finding time to relax rarely does.
All in all, it was a great New Year’s Eve. It may not sound as extravagant or entertaining as a party, but avoiding the cold, crowds and uncomfortably tight 3 layers of clothing made it one of the most relaxing nights. Going out may seem like the best option every year, but sometimes a night in can beat every other choice. Besides, staying at home makes the first few hours of the New Year a lot less hectic than crowd surfing in the TTC.