What to do on New Year holidays: 55 ideas

We are only a week away from the New Year vacations, which means it’s time to think about how to spend the holidays in a varied and rich way. We’ve gathered 55 ideas for you that won’t make you bored during the weekend. We’re sure you’ll love some of them. Or maybe even a few of them.

1. Take up winter sports

As long as the weather conditions are favorable for energetic vacations, you should spend time outdoors as often as possible and keep yourself busy with various activities. On New Year’s Eve you can go skiing and snowboarding from the city slopes or specially equipped tracks in the mountains. Skating, ice hockey and curling are no less enjoyable in winter.

2. Revisit the Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings movies

Re-watching these movies on New Year’s Eve has become a real tradition for many, despite the fact that winter themes are not given much attention in them. But perhaps these days we especially want magic and adventure. This is also due to the fact that the movies were released in winter and many people watched them for the first time just on the eve of the New Year.

3. Make flavored tea

Many coffee shops are introducing signature drinks to their menu. When the frost pleasantly burns the skin, it is impossible to refuse a cup of delicious vitamin tea with spices, orange, sea buckthorn, lemon or honey. A huge number of teas can be learned to brew on their own. Then your enjoyment will not be limited to the menu of the nearest coffee shop.

4. bake gingerbread and paint it

Besides the fact that the aromas of ginger and cinnamon will linger in the air for a long time, you can add an extra element of joy and care during the holidays by giving freshly baked treats to loved ones. In some cultures, gingerbread is a symbol of prosperity and good luck in the new year.

5. Declutter

There’s nothing better than starting the year with a clean and cozy home. Take time over the New Year vacations to clean and optimize your space. Throw away unnecessary things, organize your storage, tidy up your rooms and create a harmonious atmosphere in your home. By the way, if you wanted to make a small cosmetic repair, for example, re-glue wallpaper, for a week is quite possible to manage.

6. Sort out old photos

Sometimes dust-covered folders with black-and-white photos have been waiting for years. When better than during the vacations to restore them? Digitize them, transfer them to a computer or arrange them in a photo album. Let the family history in the form of old photos give warmth and support in the new year.

7. Go to the bath

Do not forget about the old Russian tradition and take a steam from the heart. But not like the hero of the movie “The Irony of Fate”! When you bathe, mentally imagine how all the problems of the past year go away with the water, so you will return home clean and with lightness in your soul.

8. Study the culinary traditions of different countries

Of course, nothing can outshine the Russian New Year’s standard, but you can be curious. The process will allow you to be creative and surprise your loved ones with unusual dishes. Cook, for example, duck confit according to the chef’s signature recipe. This is the perfect dish for guests during the holidays.

9. Go to an exhibition

New Year’s vacation is a great time to visit museums and exhibitions that you’ve been wanting to see for a long time. Art, history, science – choose what interests you and enjoy cultural events. However, you should worry about tickets in advance, as there will be many people who want to visit museums during the vacations.

10. Fall in love

If this New Year’s Eve you met alone, don’t get upset. It’s time to fix it! Look for acquaintances on the web or ask your friends to find you someone among your acquaintances. Such a fabulous time seems to be created for warm and soulful meetings. And if you already have a soulmate, use the vacation time to be together and take your relationship to the next level.

11. update your hairstyle

Changing your hairstyle can be a symbolic step to start the new year with a clean slate. Also try experimenting with different hair styles, colors and textures to find the one that best expresses your personality. But remember that there are some hairstyles that may not work for you.

12. Spend the day at the mall

During the New Year holidays, store owners usually don’t skimp on decorations and create the most festive atmosphere possible, which makes shopping even more enjoyable and fun. Also, many stores and shopping centers hold New Year sales. A great excuse to update your closet. End the day with dinner at a cafe or a trip to the movies.

13. Give gifts

New Year, Christmas – a great reason to please your loved ones. Add intrigue to the process. Play with relatives and friends in the secret Santa. The essence of the game is an anonymous exchange of gifts. The more participants, the more fun. And to guess with a gift, it is better to know in advance what a person is interested in.

14. Get creative

For example, make Christmas tree toys from epoxy resin. They look especially beautiful and unusual. Creative approach and this unique material will allow you to realize the most interesting ideas. Or draw a symbol of the year. According to the Eastern calendar, 2024 is the year of the Green Wood Dragon. He symbolizes wisdom, strength and luck. Try to depict it on a sheet of paper, perhaps this drawing will become your talisman.

15. Go to a place where there is more snow

For example, to the birthplace of Santa Claus. His official residence is in Veliky Ustyug. This beautiful town with a rich history is located in a picturesque spot on the river bank, making it ideal for relaxation and entertainment.

16. Make an atmospheric playlist

It can be songs from old Soviet movies or modern ones. In the outgoing 2023, “Winter in the Heart” is breaking all records. Below are some of the most popular songs that can create the atmosphere of winter:

1. Let It Go from the animated movie Cold Heart.
2. Jingle Bells performed by Jim Sturgess Last Christmas by Wham!
3. Winter Wonderland by Andy Williams.
4. The Christmas Song by Nat King Cole.

17. Prepare fortune cookies

A tasty gift with cute fortune cookies can motivate you to have a productive year, give you hope and add confidence to your abilities. Inside each cookie is a piece of paper with a fortune or wish.

Examples:

• This year you will meet a special person.
• A trip to a faraway land awaits you.
• You will receive a gift you’ve wanted for a long time.
• You will find your purpose.

18. Make an Advent calendar

Usually, such calendars are used to help count the days until the holiday to brighten the waiting and make it more wonderful. It writes the dates until December 31, but you can adapt it in your own way. It consists of a certain number of cells, one for each day. In each cell can be hidden a small gift, a treat or a note with wishes. When a person opens it, he is happy about the gift and looks forward to the next day. Such a calendar can be made for New Year’s vacation – schedule activities and entertainment for each day of the long weekend. This way you’ll know what to do and you won’t get bored!

19. Make a list of goals

Writing down goals reminds us of what we want to accomplish and can serve as motivation during difficult times. When we have specific goals, we can work towards achieving them every day instead of just hoping for the best. We can also describe a rough plan to realize them. With renewed vigor towards your dreams!

20. Start on the path to your dream body

For example, you can go for a light jog in the mornings and wear a brightly colored scarf with holiday symbols to lift your spirits or take a group of like-minded people with you. You can do home fitness, do yoga or Pilates, try new workouts, or go for personal training with a trainer. This will help you keep fit, increase your energy and improve your mood.

21. Start eating right

Many people dream of getting in shape with the new year. Calorie-laden salads and sugary drinks delay this moment, and the phrase “after the holidays” sounds quite burdensome. Try to go against the established rule and start your way to a slim body before the vacations are over. Or maybe even before they start! Set a goal and create a menu for the vacations with healthy ingredients in mind. If it’s hard to do it alone, look for an app or ask an expert for help.

22. Go to a spa or take a bath

A great way to pamper yourself, relax and de-stress after a busy year. Give your mind and body a rest. If you can’t go to a spa, have a relaxing day at home. Light candles, take a warm bath, do a face mask, listen to music, meditate or just enjoy the peace and quiet.

23. Start a journal

The first thing you should do is write down in it what you are grateful for in the past year. This way, you will focus on the positive aspects of your life and learn to appreciate what you have. Talk about the best moments of the past year and what you dream of accomplishing in the future.

24. Have a game night with your friends and loved ones

Pick up some cool board games or video games. A win-win is good old “mafia” or “dunkers.” This is a great opportunity to diversify the holidays. True, then try to establish a sleep schedule, otherwise in the first days after the vacations will be very difficult to get into a working rhythm.

25. Hold a movie marathon

Such events can be held in cinemas, houses of culture or libraries. Participants usually watch several movies in one evening and then discuss them. For a home session, watching timeless New Year’s classics is a good idea. Don’t forget to stock up on goodies and take a warm knitted plaid.

26. Dedicate the day to your hobbies

Someone sculpts from clay, collects aircraft or railroads, sews soft toys, breeds indoor plants or collects vinyl. There can be tons of interesting activities. Dive headfirst into one that truly brings you pleasure. If you haven’t discovered one yet, the winter holidays can be a good opportunity to explore yourself.

27. Dive into a winter fairy tale

Take a walk through a snowy forest on foot or cross-country skis. The fresh air and gorgeous views will improve your mood and well-being, as contact with nature helps reduce stress. Such walks will help you fill up with energy for the whole next year.

28. Have a picnic

What can be better than a bonfire and kebabs in nature? Only a bonfire and kebabs in winter. Imagine, fresh frosty air, crackling wood, the aroma of fried meat and hot tea or mulled wine in a mug. If there is no dacha or forest nearby, you can have a picnic in the nearest park, if it is allowed to build fires, if not, then take food and tea with you from the nearest cafe, but eat it hot in the fresh air!

29. Go to the sea

People sensitive to the cold can fly to the sea and bask under the rays of the sun in the winter. The main thing is to take with you a good portion of olivier and a kilo of tangerines. Perhaps you will be able to buy a “hot tour” and fly on a budget. Those who do not need the heat, but who loves the sea and mountains, we advise you to visit Sochi.

30. Ride in a reindeer sled

First it is worth exploring the parks, farms, clubs where these marvelous northern animals are kept. It is better to come with a treat, reindeer love jagel. Such a walk in the fresh air is perfect for families with children. A lot of positive emotions will be provided for you.

31. Arrange a New Year’s photo session

It can be family shots by the fireplace, an ordinary photo in the park, made on the phone, or a professional shot with an interesting backstory. In any case, with the main holiday attributes, any photo will turn out to be atmospheric.

32. Be a tourist in your hometown

Surely there are places you haven’t had time to visit. New Year holidays are a great excuse to catch up. See the place you live in with different eyes. You can explore new neighborhoods, enjoy the Christmas lights, visit beautiful parks, or just enjoy the festive atmosphere on the streets.

33. Indulge in winter fun

Winter fun is a Russian national tradition. Frost and plenty of snow are no barrier to spending time outdoors. The main thing is to move a lot. And it does not matter how old you are! Plunge into childhood is an opportunity to warm your soul and for a while get rid of the hardships of adult life. Take your snowcats, snow boots, sleds or ice skates and go for a ride on the slide. And don’t forget to play snowballs! It’s just important not to forget about safety.

34. Attend a sporting event

If you love sports, you can visit sports events that take place in your city on New Year’s holidays. It can be a soccer or hockey game, a basketball tournament or any other sport that interests you.

35. Go to a fair

As well as a variety of goodies, hot mulled wine and other merchandise, fairs often offer interesting competitions and quizzes. And when you get home, enjoy the twinkling garlands, snowfall and clean, frosty air. Stop the flow of unnecessary thoughts and live these wonderful moments here and now.

36. Take up knitting

Do you think that this is a purely feminine activity? In fact, knitting is a kind of meditation. A man focuses on the process, his breath, and it allows you to distract yourself from everyday worries, stress and plunge into a state of peace and tranquility.

Yarn, needles and hooks are always associated with something cozy. Knitted things such as sweaters, socks, hats and plaids are often used to create a cozy atmosphere in the house. They are soft, warm and pleasant to the touch.

Some ideas:

1. classic winter sweater with reindeer;
2. warm wool socks with patterns;
3. a large wool plaid for cozy evenings in front of the fireplace.

37. Get your social media in order

We spend a lot of time on them. Have you cleaned up your social networks for a long time? Have you removed people from your friends list who you’ve long since stopped communicating with? Unnecessary news and alerts? Keeping your social media in order helps save time as you can avoid useless content, spam and unwanted notifications. Spending a little time on vacation will make it easier to find the information, content, and posts you need. You can also filter and select content that better matches your new interests and goals. You should also update your personal information, such as photos, interests, and so on.

38. Do a good deed

Kindness can manifest itself in different forms, such as volunteering, charity, helping the needy and caring for others. For example, you can feed stray animals, build a birdhouse or give ripe tangerines to a lonely old lady. When you do good deeds, you can feel useful and happy, and contribute to creating a kinder and more harmonious world for everyone. The gratuitous help will bring you a lot of positive emotions and will warm your soul for a long time.

39. Get a pet

Of course, only if you are ready for such responsibility. This decision will be quite prudent, because next New Year’s Eve you will definitely not spend it alone. A pet can become part of your family, be a loyal friend and an excellent companion. Remember that the holidays will be over, and animals require constant time, care and attention. Before you get one, make sure you will have enough time to care for it, play, walk it, and pay attention to its needs.

40. Read the books

New Year’s vacation is a great time for reading and self-development. Choose books that you have wanted to read for a long time. This will help you broaden your horizons, develop your intellectual abilities and relax in a cozy environment. You probably have a few books that you can’t seem to get around to reading. Now is the time! If you do not have such a list, then we advise you to look at something from the novelties. And to create a good mood around you, you can get acquainted with books with a festive atmosphere: “The Night Before Christmas”, “The Gifts of the Magi”, “Twelve Months”, etc. Perhaps after reading them you will have a new perspective on the holiday and its traditions.

41. Go to the ballet “The Nutcracker”

One of the main symbols of the New Year is the traditional ballet that is staged in theaters during the winter season. “The Nutcracker” is one of the most famous ballets in the world and is full of music, dancing and colorful costumes. The tale of a Christmas miracle is sure to create a special atmosphere of magic. Performances are held in many cities during the vacations, but if you manage to get a ticket in Moscow or St. Petersburg, this trip will leave a special impression. By the way, if you are planning to go to the capital or St. Petersburg for New Year, let us tell you what you can do in winter in these amazing cities.

42. Engage in self-analysis or start psychotherapy

It’s never too late to get to know yourself better, analyze your strengths and weaknesses, accept your appearance and personality. Work on the things that are bothering you and get yourself in the right frame of mind for the coming year. Also, introspection promotes self-knowledge and self-acceptance, which can lead to a happier and more fulfilling life. Individual sessions with a psychologist can help accelerate the process of self-exploration, as well as deal with old and new problems.

43. See the northern lights

If you have been dreaming about it for a long time, we have good news. It is not so difficult to realize it! You just need to decide on the region and choose the right time. This natural phenomenon looks fabulous, but only clear skies and good weather conditions are acceptable.

44. Visit distant relatives or friends

These can be internet friends or relatives from another city or perhaps a country. Either way, on such a family holiday, you want to feel the warmth of kinship and make the relationship closer. Try to get to them and give them a real hug! A cup of evening tea and heart-to-heart talks at a close distance will not replace any video calls!

45. Have a night of fortune-telling

On New Year’s Eve, people have been thinking about the future, dreaming of the best and believing that all wishes will come true. Fortune-telling will not give the most reliable information, but it will surround you with an atmosphere of mystery and mysticism, and it is also great as entertainment.

46. Organize a masquerade or pajama party

Dressing up in themed costumes is a great way to have fun, take a break from your daily routine and spend time with friends. You can also learn something new about different cultures, traditions, customs and develop your creativity. And pajamas can be the dress code for movie or video game night.

47. Spend a day without gadgets

Such an experience at the beginning of the year will make you realize if you have an addiction to smartphones and help you get rid of the information noise. Also, such an experiment will improve your health, give you a break from the constant thought process and free up a lot of time for other things.

48. Form a new useful skill

In a short holiday period, it is extremely difficult to finalize a specific thing, but it is quite realistic to lay the foundation for the future. You can develop a skill in any area, for example, learn martial arts, enroll in a driving school or computer courses. Such an active start to the year has its advantages. You will be more effective in solving current tasks and feel confident, because at the beginning of the year you made an effort on yourself and practiced self-discipline.

49. Take a snowmobile ride

Implementing this idea will help you experience freedom, extreme excitement and competitive spirit. You should not forget that snowmobiles are powerful machines that can reach speeds of up to 100 km/h. Racers should be very experienced, skillful and take into account that this exciting sport is extremely dangerous.

50. Take up learning a foreign language

Even while on vacation, there are still options to practice the language. You can diversify your lessons:
writing a letter/postcard to a friend in a foreign language or eventually figuring out what your favorite artist is singing about.

51. Do a check-up of your whole body

Check your health regularly, especially at the beginning of the year, to get an idea of the state of your body and detect possible problems (hidden diseases) at an early stage. Moreover, after such a procedure you will not have unexpected unpleasant surprises in the middle of the year. A big plus to do it during the holidays is the absence of queues. True, it is worth clarifying the working hours, since most institutions do not work on holidays.

52. Live in Scandinavian cabins in the woods

After merry companies and noisy feasts, as never before you want to be alone with nature, to feel harmony and tranquility. Such a vacation away from the city will favorably affect your body. Serene vacation is well suited to people squeezed at the end of the year, like a lemon.

53. Get rid of clothes you don’t wear

When your closet is in order, it will be much easier and faster for you to choose clothes for each day. You’ll be able to easily find the right items and create stylish and coordinated looks. It’s easy to put things in order. For example, this way: separate the clothes that you no longer wear or that don’t fit you. Divide them into three categories: “get rid of” (donate, sell or throw away), “put away” (seasonal items that you don’t use at the moment) and “keep” (things you still wear and love).

54. Study history or delve into astronomy

Every year there are new events that shake the world more and more. Understanding the past can help you see the roots of current problems and see where things stand. If you have little interest in history, we suggest looking into astronomy. The winter sky is rich in colorful astronomical events. In the evening there is every chance to see a mesmerizingly beautiful firmament. From December to January you can be pleased with the constellations of Taurus, Orion and many others.

55. Clear the snow

Clearing the area of snow is a great winter fitness option. You don’t have to pay for a gym membership – just buy a good shovel! Start with the area around your porch or entryway. If the janitors beat you to it, clean up the playground or build a slide for the kids. The kids will be happy, and your body will be grateful to you for the great exercise during the holidays!