New Year's Eve at home countdown checklist

4 weeks out

• Send the invite; say whether it's a dinner, a late party or both
• Decide on a dress code if you want one (sparkle, black tie, pajamas)

2 weeks out

• Plan the food: dinner early, or heavy snacks plus a late-night bite
• Order champagne, confetti, noisemakers and party hats
• Plan the countdown: TV, a playlist timed to midnight, or a balloon drop

1 week out

• Confirm the headcount and who's staying over
• Buy drinks and plenty of ice
• Plan one activity for the lull around 10pm (a game, resolutions jar, photo booth)

1 day out

• Make anything ahead; chill the champagne
• Set up the bar, glasses and a photo spot

Day of

• Put out the late-night snack at 11pm
• Pour the champagne at 11:50
• Have rides or a spare room sorted for anyone who needs one

After

• New Year's Day brunch for whoever stayed, and thank-yous