New Year's Eve Guide

Article archived: January, 2010

Whether it's with your family, your coworkers or your dearest friends, throwing a New Year's Eve bash is a great way to celebrate the season — and bring people together. From invitations and decorations to serving crowd-pleasing treats, our guide has you covered.

Plan for success

Smart planning is the foundation of any successful party — and a New Year's Eve party is no exception.

Make the big decisions first. You don't have to pre-plan all of the details, but make sure you know what type of event you're having — before you invite your guests. Is it a themed party? A family-friendly gathering? A soiree with adult beverages (and no kids allowed)? Knowing what type of party you want allows you to plan strategically.
Try an e–vite. Instead of risking your invitations getting lost in the mail, send a customized electronic invitation with all the details your guests will need. Make sure to include a start time, your address and notes on dress and what to bring, if applicable.
Make a list of what you’ll need. A checklist helps keep you focused as you plan your party — and will reduce the chances that you’ll forget something.

Set the stage

Thoughtful details turn any party into a memorable night — and the New Year deserves a memorable celebration!

New Year's Eve-themed party favors like noisemakers, hats and glasses will get guests in the celebrating spirit. Make sure to buy them in advance — they can sell out quickly on the big day.
Decorations will make the evening feel special. Don't be afraid to go all out, either! Strings of colored lights, metallic streamers — and even a disco ball — are appreciated by young and old alike.
Music is an essential part of any seasonal soiree. Are your guests going to dance? If so, make a playlist of all your favorite, upbeat songs from the radio. Aiming for a more classic cocktail party? Big band and jazz songs lend timeless appeal to New Year's Eve celebrations.
Have activities planned throughout the night. Video games like Wii or Guitar Hero are fun for the whole family; board games like Trivial Pursuit can include everyone, and classic games like Charades can be customized to suit the theme of your party.
Make a countdown plan — and make a big splash at midnight. Dim the lights when the countdown starts, play a special song to ring in the New Year, and unveil a dessert or champagne to celebrate 2010.

Feast on festive food and drink

A delicious spread of appetizers and treats with drinks is an essential part of any New Year's Eve. With a little help from Giant Eagle^®, you don't have to stress over a stove to make your party memorable.

Everyone loves a cheese or vegetable tray. Easy to serve, easy to eat and satisfying, our cheese and antipasti appetizer trays make it easy for you to impress.
Want a more substantial spread? Our hot, pre-made appetizers and frozen, ready-to-eat treats include party favorites like crab cakes, shrimp platters, stuffed peppers, sandwich rings, and finger-licking hot wings.
Decadent desserts are a must, and the Giant Eagle^® Bakery has you covered. Cookies, pies, and tortes will dazzle everyone’s taste buds. Remind guests that their diets don't start until after the ball drops, and slice up some fresh-baked goodness!
Don't forget beverages! Champagne is a classic, but choosing one or two holiday-themed drinks can make the evening feel more special. Try tart-sweet Pomegranate Champagne Punch, or impress with the citrus flavors of Lemon-Orange Fizz.
Interested in adding some custom, home-cooked touches? Browse our extensive recipe collection for fresh ideas to start the year off right.