New Year's Eve is almost here, which presents a problem for parents of teens. Your child is too young to ring in the New Year at a bar but wants to celebrate the big event. It's time to turn your kid-friendly festivities [1] into a teen-approved bash. From finger foods to age-appropriate drinks, here's everything you need to throw a fun New Year's Eve party for teens.
Set the Scene
New Year's Eve is all about the sparkle and shine! Look for gold and silver balloons, streamers, and tablecloths. For some added shimmer, build a sequined wall like the one from Oh Happy Day [3].
Say "Cheese!"
Not only does the sequined wall add to the decor, but it doubles as the background for a photo booth. Teens can use items they own and print props online, or purchase some professional ones from Etsy [5].
Serve Some Apps
What teen doesn't love mac and cheese? Especially when it's fried. These bite-size snacks [6] from I Heart Naptime are the perfect appetizers.
Sip Something Sparkly
Mocktails provide the same sophistication as cocktails but without the booze. These Frost Bite Mocktails [8] are a festive, fruity, and fresh drink that teens will love.
Pour the Punch
For a drink you can serve from a bowl, try Martha Stewart [10]'s apple cider cranberry ginger punch [11]. Combining all of the season's best flavors, it's the perfect drink for a party.
Make Delicious Dishes
Teens don't want to balance a plate and utensils. Sliders [13], veggie platters, and chips and dips make for a perfect party menu.
Sing a Song
Music is a must at any party, but take it to the next level with a karaoke machine. You don't even have to pay big bucks for this entertainment. Just download any of these sing-along apps to your tablet [15] and buy a few microphones for a fun evening.
Record Your Resolutions
As much as we love our teens, they could always use a little improvement. Decorate coffee or oatmeal cans for each guest to fill with their New Year's resolutions. When the year comes to an end, they can open them to see what they achieved.
Snack on Sweets
Teens love their sweets. While you could easily serve store-bought goodies, these chocolate peanut butter cupcakes [17] are a decadent, easy-to-make treat.
Toss the Confetti
When the clock strikes 12, let the confetti fall! Fill balloons with confetti, hang them, and let guests pop them at midnight.
Give a Parting Gift
Don't let guests leave empty handed. Make these resolution bracelets from Crafts Unleashed [19] to remind teens what they hope to change in the New Year.