As you headed back to work yesterday morning, did you find yourself thinking about how much money you wish you hadn’t spent on New Year’s Eve? Or how about if your New Year’s resolution was to save more money…are you disappointed now in how much you spent this past year on one night?
Well, there’s nothing you can do right now to get that money back, but instead you can plan for next year and think ahead to how you might want to make your NYE celebrations a little bit different and a lot more cheap!
1. Stay In – This doesn’t sound like so much fun does it? But it really can be! Relaxing for the night, watching TV, playing some games, it can all be a lot of fun after the busy holiday season. I know that the point is to celebrate the coming of the New Year, so pop some champagne at midnight to celebrate. But this will allow you to save yourself the huge crowds and ton of money that gets spent by staying in your warm house instead (if you are from around the New England area you know how bitterly cold New Year’s Eve was this year!).
2.) Don’t Splurge on a New Outfit – Yes, we all like to get dressed up on New Year’s, but the truth is, you don’t have to go out and buy something new. Dress up something that you already have! Buying a new accessory can change a simple black dress into something fun for the New Year. There is no need to go out and spend a lot of money on a glittery/flashy shirt or dress that you will only wear once, so stay simple and save money!
3.) Volunteer Your House for the Party – Throw a potluck party where people bring food and drinks and you provide some too! This way you (1) don’t have to drive, (2) can have fun by staying in at your own home, and (3) can have your friends over to celebrate with you. If you and your friends have kids, this can also save you money on babysitters by setting up a room where all the kids can play and sleep for the night. You may have a little bit of cleaning up to do the next day, but at least you were able to save a bit of money.
4.) Look For Free Events In Your Town/City – There are usually free things that you can do around every holiday, you just have to do your research. Fireworks are always free and if you live in a warm location this can be a really fun way to bring in the New Year…even if you live somewhere cold it can be fun, you will just need a lot of warming up afterwards! There are sometimes full day events that cities plan where you can by discounted group tickets to go around and see everything such as ice sculptures and other features on display.
New Year’s Eve is a fun celebration but does not always have to be expensive. The food and drinks that people spend money on in this one night add up significantly by the time the celebration is over. If you found yourself wishing you had saved some money this year, try out some of the above suggestions to see if it makes a difference. Check out other easy ways to save here!
If you think that you spent way to much on NYE celebrations this year…just think how much $6,000 could help you reduce your debt. Win this or other great prizes in the Great Geezeo Bailout! Collect points every day.
Photo: Laura Ashly
