For the longest time (i.e. since the age of 14), I used to look forward to a New Year’s Eve that didn’t consist of glasses of “sparkling cider,” watching my mother doze off before the clock struck 11:20 pm, and seeing the ball drop in Times Square on television with my younger sister. However, now that I am older and have experienced the typical NYE night out, minus a crowded bar, the former seems just as appealing. Despite how fun everyone says it is, New Year’s Eve is really just an overrated holiday. Here are the reasons why:
1. The Hype – NYE is built up to be this perfect night where everyone looks dazzling and sparkling, is just the right amount of tipsy off champagne, and has a midnight kiss with the perfect guy like in When Harry Met Sally. In reality, you spend too much money on a “meh” dress that has so many sparkles you probably won’t wear it anywhere else. You’re also usually too hungover to function the next morning, or taking care of your hungover friends. Lastly, you either a) kiss your boyfriend like every other day b) don’t find anyone to kiss and feel horrible c) kiss someone random just to have someone to kiss or d) are already a little too tipsy to find someone to kiss. With that being said, the night basically sets itself up to be a complete disappointment.
2. It’s Expensive – As I mentioned before, the dress is already an expense. Next, you need to pay for transportation because who the hell wants to be a designated driver on New Year’s Eve? Then, if you are 21, you pay way too much to get into a bar or club that you could go to for half the price or less any other day of the year. If you aren’t 21, you usually just pay a small amount to get into a lame party that isn’t worth it. Instead, you could have bought a nice Starbucks latte with those 5 dollars.
3. The Pressure – Since the whole night is so over-glorified as the best night to go hard and have fun, it is also the most stressful. You need to look your best, find the best parties, be with the best people, and find the best person by the end of the night. That doesn’t sound fun at all. That sounds like the planning that went into your senior prom.
4. The Crowds – Either you are in a crowded party, crowded street, or crowded bar getting a drink spilled on you or your personal space invaded. The bathroom lines are horrendous and one girl is always crying. It is the equivalent of a crappy night out on any other weekend.