Ways to Ring In the New Year

The only American holiday that's traditionally celebrated at the stroke of midnight, New Year's is a time for noisemakers, confetti, foil hats and champagne. But if your New Year's celebrations have gotten a little routine, why not get creative? The beginning of a new year is the perfect time to come up with some new ideas or new traditions for celebrating with friends and family.

Sissy Biggers is the Lifestyle Expert for Better Homes & Gardens online, a periodic contributor to the company's book publishing division, and the Entertaining and Lifestyle Advisor for America Online. Previously the host of Food Network's ,i>Ready, Set?Cook!, Biggers loves to entertain in the Connecticut home she shares with her husband and daughters . Here she offers a few fun ways to celebrate New Year's Eve:

• Pajamas.
  Biggers likes the idea of a New Year's Eve pajama party because it's all-inclusive. You can create an atmosphere of safety and comfort for the children and the parents can enjoy the laid-back, casual experience that comes with hanging out in pajamas.
  
• Favors.
  If you're having guests over, why not involve them in a fun activity, like making their own party favors or take-home gifts? This year, Biggers is inviting her guests to create their own wine glass charms using pens that write on glass. They'll have a remembrance to take home with them, and will have helped to start a new tradition.
  
• Fondue.
  In Biggers' mind, nothing creates a party atmosphere like a fondue set. The recipes range from the classic to the contemporary, and it's as much a fun activity as it is a great style of cooking.
  
• Community Events.
  You might also consider getting out of the house this New Year's. Most communities have indoor or outdoor events scheduled, and it can be fun ringing in a new year with neighbors and strangers at a concert, party, dance or even just an informal gathering in the town square or city center.

For more New Year's Eve ideas, check these out:

What's Your Champagne IQ?

New Year's Eve for Kids

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