It's not a stretch to assume most people will be happy to wave goodbye to 2020 and start fresh in a brand new year. Although a party is off the table, there are still plenty of ways to usher in the new year while staying safe and comfortable at home.
Barrie's Virtual Family New Year's Eve Countdown
If you live in Barrie and have kids, chances are your New Years’ Eve celebrations include a visit to the Downtown Countdown. While this year it is switching to a virtual format, starting at 7 PM the City of Barrie will host an hour-long family-friendly event with a countdown and returning favourite, Splash ‘N’ Boots.
Zoom Party
If you have friends and family you normally spend New Year's Eve with, we recommend hosting a Zoom party to stay social, from home. Order in some food, pick up your favourite drinks (like from Flying Monkeys or Redline, perhaps?), and play some games.
Movie Marathon
If you're the type of person who would rather spend a night in, than a night out, the good news is that you won't even have to make up an excuse this year! Sometimes popping some popcorn and curling up the the couch for a night of movies is just what you need. Movies set on New Year's is optional but will score you some bonus points
Board Game Night
If you're like us, you don't need much of an excuse to bust out the board games but New Year's Eve at home sounds the perfect place for it. Whether you want to tear into some old classics like Risk, Operation, or Life, or dive into some new gems like Codenames, Castle Panic, or Exploding Kittens, a board game night will turn New Year's Eve into fun, possibly competative, night.
Related: 7 Board games to play with your family
Video Game Night
If you like your interactive entertainment on a screen instead of a table, video games can be another awesome way to de-stress and have some fun. Don't worry, it's okay if you're not good at them because there are lots of options out there that are easy to pick up and start playing. If you live with someone who has a Nintendo Switch (or an older Nintendo system), Mario Kart can use motion controls for easy driving. The new smash sensation Among Us is also super easy, insanely fun, and completely free to download right to your phone!
New Year's Resolutions
Many New Year's Resolutions don't even make it to February, let alone through the entire year and that's why it's important to make those resolutions real. How? Well, for starters you should write them down and even plan dates you intend to hit your goal by. Another fantastic way to stay on track is to make resolutions with a partner, whether that be a friend, spouse, or family member. If you are both holding each other accountable, you're more likely to succeed!
Bake-a-thon
Maybe there's something in the air around the holidays but everyone seems to have a sweet tooth this time of year. We think you need to treat yourself every once in a while and New Year's Eve would be the perfect night to have an all-night bake-a-thon. Cakes, cupcakes, cookies, brownies, and anything else you have a craving for...all in one go!
Featured image courtesy of Karolina Grabowska via pexels.com
