This article is presented by Kelly Whalen, Consumerism Commentary staff writer.
At midnight people around the world will be celebrating a new year with celebrations, parties, or a quiet evening at home. You may already have plans to party like it’s 2009, but if you don’t here are a few ways you can celebrate without breaking the bank.
Host a potluck with a twist
Having friends or family over is a great way to be social without having to spend a lot of dough. For adults have everyone BYOB. You will end up with a variety of choices for everyone to try, all you have to do is provide the party music, and the cups.
Throw a kid-friendly party
Instead of keeping the kids up until midnight (never a good idea unless they are teens), shout Happy New Year at the hour of your choosing, it’s a New Year somewhere! Best to combine this with plenty of snacks and crafts to keep the kids happy while parents chat.
Stay home with your sweetie
It may seem boring, but it’s good practice for your old age. A candlelight dinner (if you have kids, wait until they are in bed), a bottle of champagne, and watching the ball drop is a wonderful way to ring in the New Year.
Go out for drinks, but not dinner
Why not save your cash and dinner before you go out? You’ll save a ton since restaurants tend to have price fixed menus.
Be the designated driver
If you are going out, be the designated driver for your friends or family members. Everyone will be so appreciative they will buy you non-alcoholic drinks, you’ll wake up without a hangover, and you won’t spend a dime!
Have any other money saving ideas for New Year’s Eve? I’ll be staying at home with Mr. Whalen, enjoying a movie, and some champagne. However you choose to ring in the new year remember not to drink and drive.
Published or updated December 31, 2009. If you enjoyed this article, subscribe to the RSS feed or receive daily emails. Follow @flexo on Twitter and visit our Facebook page for more updates.
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Luke Landes founded Consumerism Commentary in 2003 and has been building online communities since 1990. Luke, also known as Flexo, has contributed to PC World Magazine, US News, Forbes, and other publications. 
