Welcoming the New Year with a Quiet Night In: A Low-Key Celebration with Family and Friends

As the New Year approaches, the idea of crowded pubs and bustling parties might feel overwhelming. 

For many, a quieter, more intimate celebration at home with loved ones is the perfect way to ring in the new year.  This is the option my wife and I are going for, this year.

A low-key gathering can be just as meaningful—if not more so—than a big night out. Here’s how to create a cosy, memorable evening that’s all about connection, relaxation, and joy.

1. Set the Scene for Comfort and Warmth

Transform your home into a welcoming haven. Dim the lights, light some candles, and add soft touches like blankets and cushions. Fairy lights and a crackling fire (or a digital one on your TV!) can add a touch of magic. Creating a cosy atmosphere sets the tone for a relaxing and enjoyable night.

2. Plan a Delicious Spread

No need for elaborate meals—keep it simple and comforting.

Sharing Platters: Create a grazing board with cheeses, charcuterie, crackers, and fresh fruit.

Comfort Food: Think homemade pizzas, hearty soups, or baked pasta dishes.

Sweet Treats: Bake cookies or brownies together, or set up a DIY dessert bar with toppings for ice cream or hot chocolate.

Let everyone pitch in with their favourite dishes for a potluck-style feast.

3. Create a Custom Drinks Menu

Offer a selection of drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, to suit all tastes.

Signature Cocktails: Choose a couple of easy-to-make cocktails, like a sparkling elderflower spritz or a classic mojito.

Mocktails: Cater to non-drinkers with creative mocktails, such as a berry fizz or a citrus cooler.

Hot Drinks: Mulled wine, spiced cider, or hot chocolate are perfect for a chilly evening.

4. Choose Relaxed Entertainment

Keep the mood light with activities that encourage laughter and conversation.

Board Games: Classic games like Scrabble, Monopoly, or Pictionary are always a hit. A new, fun and easy to play game my wife have found is Oh, My Pigeons! by Ravensburger. We are so taken by this fun game (playable by two or more players) that we'll include the link to Ravensburger below.

Movie Marathon: Pick a theme or let everyone vote on their favourite films to watch.

Trivia Night: Create a quiz with fun questions about the past year or general knowledge.

If your group enjoys music, set up a karaoke session or a “guess the song” challenge.

5. Reflect on the Past Year

Take a moment to look back on the highlights of the year gone by.

Gratitude Jar: Have everyone write down something they’re grateful for and share their thoughts.

Photo Memories: Create a slideshow of photos from the past year to relive special moments.

Resolutions and Goals: Share hopes and goals for the new year—whether serious or silly!

6. Plan a Special Countdown Moment

Even in a quiet setting, the countdown to midnight is a highlight.

Countdown Toast: Gather everyone for a heartfelt toast as the clock strikes twelve.

Sparklers or Confetti: Step outside to light sparklers or toss confetti in celebration.

Write Letters to the Future: Encourage everyone to write a note to their future selves to open next New Year’s Eve.

7. Keep It Flexible

The beauty of a quiet night in is that there’s no strict schedule. Let the evening flow naturally, whether that means lingering over dessert, chatting into the early hours, or wrapping up early for a good night’s sleep.

Why Choose a Quiet Celebration?

A low-key New Year’s Eve allows you to focus on what truly matters: spending quality time with the people you care about most. It’s an opportunity to relax, recharge, and start the new year feeling connected and at peace.

Celebrating the New Year doesn’t have to be about big crowds and loud parties. A quiet night in with family and friends can be just as joyful and meaningful. So, gather your loved ones, put on your comfiest clothes, and welcome the new year with warmth, laughter, and love. Here’s to a wonderful year ahead!

https://www.ravensburger.co.uk/en-GB

How to Stage a Fantastic New Year’s Eve Party

New Year’s Eve is the ultimate occasion to celebrate, reflect on the past year, and ring in the new one with style. 

Hosting a party can feel daunting, but with a bit of planning and creativity, you can create a memorable event that your guests will rave about.

 Here’s a step-by-step guide to staging a fantastic New Year’s Eve party.

1. Set the Theme

A great party starts with a great theme. Whether it’s a classic black-tie affair, a retro disco night, or a cosy pyjama party, having a theme sets the tone and helps guests know what to expect. Your theme will also guide your choices for decorations, food, and entertainment.

2. Send Invites Early, if you can

New Year’s Eve is a busy night, so send out invitations well in advance. You can go traditional with printed invites or opt for digital invitations via platforms like Evite or WhatsApp. Make sure to include details like the dress code, start time, and any special activities planned.

3. Plan the Décor

Create a festive atmosphere with decorations that match your theme. Think fairy lights, metallic balloons, candles, and a touch of sparkle. A photo booth with props like hats, masks, and signs is a fun addition that doubles as entertainment and a way to capture memories.

4. Curate a Killer Playlist

Music is essential for setting the mood. Start with upbeat tracks to energise the room, transition to crowd-pleasers, and have a countdown-worthy anthem ready for midnight. If you’re not confident in your DJ skills, use pre-made playlists on Spotify or hire a DJ.

5. Offer Delicious Food and Drinks

Food: Finger foods and small bites are ideal for a New Year’s Eve party. Think sliders, mini quiches, and cheese platters. If you want to go all out, consider a themed menu.

Drinks: A well-stocked bar is key. Offer a mix of alcoholic and non-alcoholic options, and don’t forget champagne for the midnight toast. A signature cocktail that matches your theme adds a special touch.

6. Plan Fun Activities

Keep your guests entertained with games and activities:

Countdown Predictions: Have guests write down their predictions for the new year.

Party Games: Trivia, charades, or a dance-off are always a hit.

Resolutions Jar: Set up a station where guests can write down their resolutions to share or keep private.

7. Create a Countdown Moment

The countdown is the highlight of the evening, so make it special. Whether it’s a live stream of Big Ben, a DIY countdown clock, or a balloon drop, build excitement as midnight approaches. Hand out party poppers, confetti cannons, or sparklers to make the moment even more magical.

8. Provide a Safe Exit Plan

Ensure your guests get home safely by arranging transport options. Share details of local taxi services or encourage carpooling. If space allows, offer a few places for guests to stay overnight.

9. Capture the Memories

Assign someone to take photos or hire a photographer for the evening. A photo booth or polaroid station lets guests take home instant memories.

10. End on a High Note

Wrap up the evening with a parting gesture, like a small gift bag containing mini champagne bottles, chocolates, or thank-you notes. It’s a thoughtful way to show appreciation and leave a lasting impression.

Hosting a New Year’s Eve party is all about creating an enjoyable atmosphere for your guests. With a bit of organisation and a focus on fun, your celebration will be the perfect way to welcome the new year. So, pop the champagne, turn up the music, and get ready to party in style!

Worried over what wines to pair with Christmas dinner? Wickhams has the answers!

Preparing the perfect feast for your Christmas day takes a great deal of thought and knowing the right wines to pair with each element can be tricky, the food has a big impact on how the wines taste. 

But don't worry, Wickhams has it covered with this comprehensive guide!

All wines listed are available to order until Wednesday 20th December from wickhamwine.co.uk for pre-Christmas delivery.

Fizz:

First, let's talk about fizz! Some people even like to start the day with a little breakfast Buck's Fizz. If that's you then Filare Italia Prosecco Extra Dry is an excellent all rounder. Later in the day, if you want to toast Christmas using something made using the Champagne method but without the price tag, then Cave de Turckheim “Mayerling” Brut is an elegant option from Alsace. This sparkling Pinot Blanc will cut through the fattiness of smoked salmon blinis or compliment a creamy baked brie. 

Seafood:

If you want to go for the real thing, perhaps to pair with some oysters or seafood, then AR Lenoble Brut Intense NV is from one of the few remaining family owned Champagne houses. An English sparkling wine is a patriotic alternative, Henners Brut NV has the elegance to make this pairing sing. 

For the traditionalist who prefers prawn cocktails over oysters, then we recommend Vouvray Deniché 2021. The gentle sweetness of prawns combines perfectly with this medium-dry wine made from Chenin Blanc and has the balance of acidity and sweetness to carry this pairing off.

Turkey:

Now to the main event. There's the turkey, of course, various stuffings, sauces, vegetables, potatoes, and pigs in blankets. Finding one wine to match everything seems difficult, nigh on impossible, but Wickhams is here to help.

Pinot Noir is a good choice as it pairs with many flavours, Louis Père et Fils Mercurey "L'Or Rouge" 2019 is classic Burgundy. Cru Beaujolais is a more value conscious proposition, made using Gamay it shares similarities with Pinot Noir. Clos du Vieux Bourg "Javernières" Morgon 2020 is an excellent example which would pair equally well with goose or duck.

When looking for a white the perfect match is a ripe, lightly oaked Chardonnay. Burgundy is the obvious place to look, Florent Rouve Saint Véran En Crêches 2020 has everything you want from white Burgundy. 

Those seeking a solid value option need look no further than De Wetshof Estate Bon Vallon "Sur Lie" Chardonnay 2022 from South Africa. South African wines are proving excellent value for money at the moment because of the exchange rate with the Rand. 

Roast beef:

Prefer beef rather over turkey? Then a bold red is an easy partner. Anything from the Peter Falke range will work, PF Ruby 2017 is my personal favourite, these Stellenbosch wines are serious wines for serious food. 

The south of France has plenty of options whose tannins will soften thanks to the interplay of meat and wine. Le Lion de Cicéron 2019 is an organic wine from Corbières which fits the bill.

Pudding:

Christmas lunch, of course, isn't really complete without a flaming, fruit packed, boozy pudding. Borges Tawny Reserva Port NV has the depth and sweetness to seize the day.

If Yule Log is more your thing, pair it with Cline Cellars Late Harvest Mourvèdre 2017. Luxuriously sweet and divinely tempting you'll be reaching for another glass.

Cheese:

If you have any room left then you can round off the Christmas feast with a cheese plate, which is ripe for wine pairing. We definitely recommend a vintage Port. This big, fortified wine is an unrivalled partner to strong, salty, creamy, blue cheeses like Stilton, Roquefort or Gorgonzola. Krohn Vintage Port 2003 is drinking well now.

For pungent soft cheeses, think Brie or Camembert, will pair well with an aromatic Viognier. Try Le Versant Viognier 2021 from the south of France. Real Cheddar, from Somerset, needs an equally robust red to match. Syrah (or Syrah based blends) have the oomph to work. Smalltown Vineyards "Knock Knock" Shiraz 2020 from Australia's Barossa Valley is a great choice.

Semi-hard cheeses like Cornish Yarg or Emmental need a wine with acidity. English wines are often defined by their strident acidity, Sharpham Estate Selection 2021 will provide a nice counterpoint to the inherent fattiness of the cheese.

Now all that's needed is to dig out those board games!

(That's Christmas would like to thank Wickhams for their help in preparing this feature.)