Large and extravagant New Year's parties have been called off at the last minute as the pandemic health scare continues, but for those deciding to stay put at home to welcome 2022, there are still ways to enjoy a memorable New Year's party.
If you're one of those with canceled plans -- don't fret! Here are quick tips on setting up a festive but scaled-down New Year's party at home.
Prepare "lucky" food choices for the family
What food is considered lucky for New Year? According to Better Homes and Gardens, donuts come at the top of the list for "lucky" foods. In fact, any food shaped like a circle may be regarded as lucky because it's shaped like money. It's quite symbolic, too, because it means coming full circle at the end of the year.
In Asian cultures, noodles represent long life, and these are traditionally served during special occasions like the New Year. On the other hand, pork supposedly provides more wealth and prosperity for the incoming year. While some families may shun chicken dishes as it could bring less fortune, others look forward to serving a whole roast for a good omen.
Before enjoying this lucky food for New Year, provide some tidbits about the food to your family members so they can savor what they are eating with more zeal and enthusiasm.
Try some harmless New Year traditions from around the world
It won't hurt to follow some New Year traditions culled from other cultures, and it will be fun to observe this with the whole family.
For instance, it's a big deal in Denmark to smash old plates by their front door to welcome the New Year. It's supposed to let go of any aggression or ill-will and move forward without baggage or heavy feelings.
In Turkey, folks sprinkle salt on their doorstep at the stroke of midnight to drive away bad juju, while the Greeks hang onions by their door as a symbol of rebirth. In the morning, when the kids are awake, the parents tap these onions on their heads for good luck.
Kids in Belgium read out their New Year's letters to their parents, grandparents, or godparents. In Italy, everyone wears red underwear for love, prosperity, and luck. Couples also open the year with a kissing session in front of the people.
Spice things up with cocktail mixology
If you can't cheer in the New Year with a drink on hand at a party somewhere, bring the bar to your house and enjoy cocktail mixology or boozy holiday eggnogs. The adults in your family will likely love to indulge in mixing their drinks, but there are plenty of non-alcoholic beverages to try with the children, including fruit juice, fresh fruits, and soda.
Or stick with the classic, sip a glass or two of champagne, and pair this with strawberries or a decent charcuterie board, store-bought or prepared at home.
