Throw a spirited soiree with our midnight menu, decor ideas, and prep-time guide:

New Year's Eve Party

1. Set your menu – A buffet is best for New Year’s

2. Select drinks – Bubbles, bubbles, bubbles!

3. Consider the decor – Remove any boughs or branches that don’t look their best from your holiday décor, but otherwise keep things merry.

5 p.m.: Set set the table

7 p.m.: Take a breather

8:30 p.m.: Break out the bubbly

9 p.m.: Dish out the fare

10:30 p.m.: Clean and consolidate

11 p.m.: Get the party started

11;50 p.m.: 10 minutes and counting…

12 a.m.: Cheers!

Click here for party inspirations from Maria McBride.