December 31st is one of the biggest party nights on the calendar. Champagne arrivals, fireworks, resolutions and a quick smooch at midnight are all on the cards. As such, it’s natural that expectations run high. Realities, however, often leave us wanting. Overcrowded vantage points, public transport delays, cover charges and garbled phone calls of, “What? You’re where? We’re here! At the bar! In the car? Just text me!” Much of the let down of NYE comes from anticipating a life changing night, where secret love is confessed, strobe lights sync up with your favourite song, and your Uber fare is less than a house deposit. None of this is going to happen. Sorry. What you can do, however, is make a plan and stick directly to it.

Do you want to know the difference between December 31 and every other night? Nothing. Absolutely nothing. Gather your best friends, choose your favourite bar, head in early and commit to a good time exactly where you are. Otherwise you’ll just be chasing a dragon and standing in a queue for the better part of your night.

If you’re going to see the fireworks from a picnic rug, that is what you are doing tonight. Do it, and do it well. Invest in a really great picnic set up so you don’t have to worry about a thing. Pack your essential picnic snacks, water and booze in a cooler bag, sunscreen and bug spray, paper cups and yes, some toilet paper for those more urgent moments. Creature comforts like rugs, cushions, cardigans are essential. Throw an AirTag into your kids’ pockets and then head home once the celebration is over.

If you’re heading out on the town in a big way, go to a ticketed event. Venue owners spend months putting their NYE events together. The bar will be stocked, entertainment will be provided, and you can invite as many of your friends as you like. Don’t cling to anyone, just make a rendezvous point to meet at once an hour and go with the flow.

The best thing about being the host on NYE is that the bartender won’t cut you off, transport is never an issue, and you know exactly where you’re going to lay your head. Make some low-fuss canapes, stock the bar, and throw on your favourite playlist. Again, keep things breezy. Guests often commit to multiple events on New Year’s Eve so don’t be offended if people come and go. Just keep the bubbles topped up and swan about the place like the fabulous creature you are.