I'm always eager to attend festivities and happenings throughout the season. As an introvert, however, I enjoy the comfort of my space more than any festive celebration. During New Year's Eve, one of the most festive times, I tend to stay home.
So here's a toast, and a few suggestions, on how to avoid the crowd and celebrate the new year while at home.
Binge Watch
Nothing beats a night of streaming new or favorite shows and movies. Select your favorite series or one that you haven't quite gotten around to watching and stream all night! If you're in the mood for movies, be sure to curate a list before settling down to avoid flipping through the dark "what should I watch next?" abyss. If you're not sure where to start, filter through Kanopy's selection of series, documentaries, and movies.
Mix a Playlist
Music brings back the best memories. It is only right to listen to the soundtracks that got you through the past 365 days. Specially craft a playlist with your favorite songs of the year and blast it until the ball drops! You can even turn the volume up really loud to block out the sound of fireworks if that's your thing. To save you some time, be sure to check out the UCPL Teens' profile on Spotify for special playlists from across the year.
Reflect and Make Resolutions
Journaling has become a newfound love of mine. I tend to collect more journaling accessories than I actually use. The end of the year is the perfect time for utilizing those accessories. Reflect on the ups and downs of the past year, write out hopeful plans for goals and resolutions, or find a prompt about life and just write. Feel free to have some background noise such as listening to music or streaming a movie or show while you journal.
Snack
All of the suggestions mentioned above can be accompanied by a snack. I don't have a favorite snack, but I can always find inspiration. There's a whole section dedicated to snacking in Kid in the Kitchen by Melissa Clark. This includes a recipe for binge-watch-worthy savory popcorn. If you have a real sweet tooth, pair rom-coms, or love or breakup songs playlist, check out the journal entries with recipes found in Sweet Revenge: Passive-Aggressive Desserts For Your Exes and Enemies by Heather Kim. You can find more cookbooks with snackable recipes here.
Well, there you have it - a few suggestions for your own version of being festive. So as the ball drop and the fireworks go off, say cheers to being at home, comfortably bringing in the new year!
