New Year’s Eve plans? We don’t know her, sorry. Even without the latest developments regarding the Omicron variant, the signs were always there that it wasn’t going to be business as usual this New Year’s Eve; it was confirmed back in November that London’s iconic New Year’s Eve fireworks would be cancelled for the second year running, and that the London Underground would not be free-of-charge, as is tradition on New Year’s Eve.
It’s hardly surprising that many of us have got cold feet about our New Year’s Eve celebrations, with the estimated number of daily Omicron infections currently sitting at around 200,000. However, that doesn’t mean the night has to be a total write-off.
We’re a resilient bunch, and enduring nearly two years of social restrictions has taught us that you don’t have to go out-out (or out at all) to have a good time. That’s why GLAMOUR has compiled seven of the best tips for spending New Year’s Eve at home:
Find a virtual event
If you can’t face the idea of welcoming in the new year without a drink in your hand and some company, why not research virtual New Year’s Eve celebrations? We know, we know: it’s not exactly the same but there’s still some pretty imaginative virtual parties on offer. Eventbrite has hundreds of online events to choose from, including online dance parties, ‘80s and ’90s discos, and virtual wine tastings.
Host your own virtual event
If you want to get the gang together via Zoom, get into the party spirit by booking a virtual event for all to attend. Think Drag Queen Bingo, Murder Mystery Nights, and Gin Tastings. Of course, you could always organise a quiz on Kahoot! But that ~ might ~ remind you a little too much of lockdown circa 2020.
Volunteer
If you’re looking to make a difference in your community, volunteering throughout the year is a great idea. And there’s no better time to start than on New Year’s Eve. If you’re in London, Hackney’s Winter Night Shelter is currently looking for volunteers to help over the New Year period. For more volunteer roles, visit Crisis.
Have a cosy gathering with your family or flatmates
If you’re already visited friends and/or family for Christmas, consider staying a little longer in their company to welcome in the new year. You could try hosting a dinner party or a cheese and wine night. Of course, if you’re seeing anyone outside your household it’s highly recommended to book a PCR test in advance.
Have a night in front of the telly
What’s Netflix for, if not getting to grips with an entire boxset on New Year’s Eve? We’ve compiled a handy list of all the exciting TV shows coming to Netflix this December to help you on your way. Think of this as your chance to finally catch up on that show that everyone seems to have been talking about this year, whether it’s Succession or Emily in Paris.
Have an extreme self-care night
Reckon you know self-care? Think again. Ditch the sliced cucumbers and spend the night connecting to your needs. Whether that’s manifesting your goals for the year ahead, or getting acquainted with the latest sex toy in your collection. After all, you’ll be starting the year as you mean to go on.
Get some sleep (you deserve it)
Honestly, who even cares about New Year’s Eve that much? Get an early night and let your body catch up on some much-needed Zs. Remember: there’s always next year!
For more from Glamour UK’s Lucy Morgan, follow her on Instagram @lucyalexxandra.