As the year draws to a close, it’s time to kick back, relax and indulge in a little fun and celebration — and there’s no better time to get the party started than New Year’s Eve!
One great way to celebrate is with one of the many big events happening around the country, including:
- Sydney Harbour
- Melbourne City
- Brisbane’s South Bank
- Adelaide’s Riverbank
- Hobart Waterfront
- Canberra’s Lake Burley Griffin
- Perth’s Elizabeth Quay
- Darwin’s Waterfront
But if you’re after something a little more special, New Year’s Eve is also the perfect time to host a party of your own! With just a few friends and a little effort, you can create an unforgettable experience to ring in the new year.
To get some inspiration, check out this list of New Year’s Eve party ideas!
Midnight feast
Who wouldn’t love to celebrate the new year with a magnificent feast? Luckily, organising a potluck is easy. Simply ask each of your attendees to bring along a dish, then set it all up to enjoy at the strike of midnight!
You can even amp it up further with a theme, like traditional dishes, favourite comfort foods or brunch classics!
Awards night
The end of the year is the perfect time to celebrate your loved ones, and an awards night lets you do just that. Think of fun and unique categories, like brightest smile, life of the party and best dancer, or go tongue-in-cheek with awards for the most caffeinated, the sleepiest student and the most likely to become an influencer.
Take it to the next level up by rolling out the red carpet (a red tablecloth can work just as well) and doing your own paparazzi photoshoot!
Movie marathon
A movie marathon is a classic party idea and a great way to ring in the new year! Invite your friends, set up a comfy nest and prepare a pile of movie snacks, then settle in to enjoy some awesome flicks!
When it comes to choosing the films to watch, you can opt for a series, like The Lord of the Rings or Twilight. Alternatively, consider asking everyone to suggest a film within a specific genre like comedy, an era like the 90s, or just their favourite movie of all time. If you’re joining a group of fellow international students, why not try an Aussie classic like Strictly Ballroom or something new like Mad Max: Fury Road?
Glow in the dark party
If you’re looking for a cool party idea, it’s hard to go past glow in the dark. Not only does this party look impressive, but it’s also really easy and affordable to throw.
Pick up a few packs of glow sticks and some glow-in-the-dark face paint, or go all-out with glow balloons and wall art. Then, simply turn off the lights, turn up the music and party!
Costume party
Everyone loves an excuse to get dressed up, which is why costume parties are always a great choice. Take it to the next level with a special theme, like asking people to come as something that starts with the first letter of their name or coming as someone or something notable in 2024, such as a Swifty at the Eras Tour or a character from Challengers or Wicked.
You can make the night even more special by passing out awards or prizes, like best dressed, funniest outfit and best couples costume.
Bring a cocktail party
Another cool party trend you may have seen on TikTok is ‘bring a cocktail’ parties. Invite your friends to create their own signature cocktails — or mocktails — and serve them one by one at your event.
You can even spice it up with a theme. For example, you could ask for cocktails that sum up their year, capture their personality or only contain ingredients starting with the first letter of their name.