It’s hard to believe 2023 is right around the corner.  But hold on – we can’t say goodbye to 2022 without a New Year’s Eve celebration.  And, while New Year’s Eve is one of the most popular nights to go out on the town and celebrate, more and more people are avoiding the crowds and staying home to ring in the new year. So why not celebrate in the comfort of your own home – and even better, with a New Year’s Eve Pajama Party?

Make it a small family celebration or invite friends and neighbors to join you. They will love this creative and fun way of celebrating the New Year. Here’s what you’ll need:

The Guest List

Whether you keep the party to just your family or invite other families and friends to join in, the guest list will determine how the rest of the night will be run and how many people to prepare for. If you’re thinking of throwing a family-friendly party, it’s a great excuse to wear those matching family pajamas one more time or to purchase a set.

If you’re inviting other families, you’ll want to keep track of the number of adults and the number of kids coming to make sure you can accommodate everyone.

 

The Invitation

Once you have your guest list complete, it’s time to create the invitation. It’s important to include not only the date, start and end time, and your address, but to also make it clear that this is a pajama party and give your guests an idea of what they can expect.  Your main goal is to ring in the new year which means staying up later than normal for most of us. Keep it cozy and invite your friends to wear pajamas that they can relax and stay comfy in – especially if kids are coming. If you have a certain theme you’re going for, make sure to include that in the invitation as well.

You’ll also want to let your guests know if they should bring anything.  This is especially important if you’re inviting your guests to stay overnight. Don’t forget to let them know how they can RSVP to the party and the deadline date to do so.

The Decorations

The sky’s the limit! Remember that New Year’s Eve is a celebration so consider leaving up some of your holiday lights to keep the sparkle alive. This is also where you can add some glitz and glam to your otherwise comfy party. Add some signs, festive table cloths, and party favors and you’re ready to go!

The Menu

Keep it simple and make sure whatever you are serving is easily accessible to your guest.  Prepare food that goes along with your cozy pajama theme like lasagna, mac & cheese, pizza, or chili. Or go for serving heavy appetizers so that guests can graze all night. Be sure to also have healthy options available for those who prefer to eat a bit lighter and have snacks available throughout the night.

Set up a self-serve beverage area with both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages available. You’ll want to have several non-alcoholic options – not only for the kiddos, but for those who will be driving home after the party if they are not staying overnight.

The Activities

As the goal of the celebration is to make it to midnight – it could be a long night.  Make a list of activities you can do throughout the night. Bring out the board games, card games, play charades or Pictionary or consider getting a karaoke machine. Depending on the guest list, you will want to have both adult themed games as well as children’s activities on hand.  Having plenty of things for the kids to do will also give the grown-ups a chance to have some time to hang out and socialize.

 

 

The New Year’s Toast

You’ve made it to midnight and it’s time for the toast.  Set up a table with champagne and sparkling cider filled glasses and have your party favors close by.  This will make it easy for everyone to grab a glass and Toast to the New Year.

Your New Year’s Eve Pajama party is sure to be a hit.  Get creative and enjoy the festivities in the comfort of your own home  – and of course your pajamas.