New Year's Eve Party Planning in Lake George: 6 Steps to Make It Easy

Once you've decided to organize a New Year's Eve celebration with family and friends, the first step is figuring out whether you want to host a party at your own home or go to a local venue together.

If you're interested in going out, then take a look at these Lake George area restaurants that are open in winter. There are a variety of great establishments that can host a group for the holiday.

After you've determined the guest list, it's time to send out invitations. The quickest and easiest way to send out invitations these days (especially if your party is last minute) is to send them out online. Try an online invitation site or create an event on Facebook.

Make sure you clearly state the time of the party, what type of dress is required (casual, semi-formal, formal, etc.), if your guests should bring anything, and ask for RSVPs so you know how many people to plan or cook for.

New Year's Eve is a festive holiday, so make sure you have lots of decorations around the house. Popular New Year's Eve colors include silver, gold, black, and white.

Some essentials are balloons, streamers, confetti, party hats, champagne, and noise makers. If you're planning to watch the ball drop on television, then you'll definitely want to be ready to celebrate! Don’t feel like you need to break the bank, though. You probably have things lying around the house you can use.

Many people think they need to be in the kitchen all day long before they throw a New Year's Eve party, but you don’t! Your menu should consist of a few simple appetizers, finger foods, and desserts which people can grab while they mingle during the party.

Many of these things are easy to make and can be bought pre-made. Or, look into local caterers, which can help you plan a nice spread of food.

Champagne is a must on New Year's Eve, but you also want to make sure you have other options as well. Try soda or a bottle of sparkling juice. If you're unsure of what to offer, let your guests know that they can bring their own drinks too.

Stock up on ice, have champagne flutes handy, and make a toast at midnight! It's that simple.

Aside from dancing, party activities are good to have around to provide people with other things to do. Dig out some board games, or play a trivia game – these are interactive activities which will keep the night lively! 

If you have good speakers, or even a record player, music will help put people in the party mood. Have a fun playlist planned with some mellow music to begin the night with, and then include lots of dance tunes to play later in the night.