There’s nothing like partying to celebrate when the old year fades out and the new year rings in. Instead of having your typical indoor festivities, whether it be a formal night of wining and dining or a casual one of games and watching the ball drop, have it outdoors for something truly new. There’s no better venue than the beach, where you can gather around a warm bonfire for fun with friends and family. Here’s everything you need to guarantee a memorable New Year’s Eve.
Something to Wear
If you start your party early enough in the evening, you can have a chance to get in the water, so wear your swimsuit. With the colder weather, a maillot, tankini, swim dress, or other one-piece is probably best to put on for the most warmth without sacrificing style (though the bonfire will also keep you toasty).
Now is the time to find the perfect cover-up as well. A short dress or t-shirt cover-up can be worn with leggings, joggers, harem, or sheer pants underneath. You can wear some comfy sweats and wrap yourself in a fashionable shawl or sporty hoodie. A maxi dress eliminates the need for other leg wear and gives you an elegant look to match the occasion.
Something to Eat
You can’t have a bonfire without the classic s’more. Roasting marshmallows and hotdogs comes with the territory of fires. You can offer regular party snacks, too, such as chips and dip. If you want more filling food options, then make meat and veggie (or just veggie) kebabs. You can also wrap a potato and some vegetables in tin foil and throw it in the fire for easy cooking and cleanup. Provide hot drinks such as hot cocoa, apple cider, coffee, and tea instead of cold sodas. Also have something special to drink for when midnight strikes.
A unique dessert to make is orange cakes. Cut off the tops of oranges and scoop out the flesh. Pour prepared cake batter inside, only filling them up halfway. Wrap the bottoms in foil and bake them in the fire until they’re done. For a healthier option, roast some fruit. Bananas, peaches, and pineapple are delicious choices.
Something to Do
While it’s fun to sit and catch up with people, New Year’s Eve is a long night, and you can soon run out of things to talk about. Games are great for keeping your guests entertained. Ask everyone to bring their favorite party game to play, keeping in mind the amount and quality of lighting you will have available. However, you don’t need store-bought games in order to have a good time. Simple games like “I’ve Never” and “Two Truths and a Lie” are really funny and don’t require anything but people to play.
If you’re a more active bunch, bring equipment for the following sports:
- Volleyball
- Soccer
- Ultimate Frisbee
- Badminton
- Paddle ball
Even going for a walk along the shore is great exercise and will help you keep warm, too. Take the opportunity to snap some photos of all of you together at the scenic venue. Candid shots are great as well, especially for catching funny moments.
Whatever you decide to do, an easy way to bring your supplies along is with a large beach bag. It’s much cuter than using something like a duffel bag, and you won’t have to worry about getting your regular tote bags sandy and wet.
A Night to Remember
With the right outfit, food, and entertainment, you can have a memorable bonfire celebration and a New Year’s Eve unlike any other. Let Swimsuits Direct help you find what you need to look beautiful and be comfortable on this milestone night.