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How to ring in 2021 safely this year

New Year's Eve is right around the corner, and after the unpredictability of this past year, I think we are *all* eager to say goodbye to 2020. As the United States continues to battle the coronavirus pandemic, we must continue to follow local guidelines to slow the spread of the virus—even when it comes to the holiday season. Although ringing in the New Year typically calls for parties, crowds and festivities, it is so important to find ways to celebrate safely this year.

Even if you can’t ring in the New Year with your friends or family, there are still *so* many ways to have fun this New Year’s Eve. If you're still searching for plans on December 31, look no further, because we’ve rounded up some of the most engaging ways to ring in 2021 safely.

Host a themed Zoom party:

Just because you're celebrating New Year's Eve from home this year doesn't mean you can't still participate in some of the traditions you normally do. Invite all of your friends to a NYE themed zoom party where you can stream "Dick Clark's Rockin' New Year's Eve," chat with friends and count down to the new year.

Plan a movie marathon:

There are *so* many movies that revolve around New Year's Eve. Ring in the new year by watching "New Year's Eve," "About Time" or "High School Musical"— all of which are great choices to get you in the holiday spirit. Don't forget to pop some popcorn and crack open the sparkling grape juice!

Set up a photo shoot:

Sad you won't get to rock the sparkly dress you've been *dying* to wear all year? Put it to good use by staging a photo shoot with your family. Not only will this give you an excuse to dress up, but it will encourage you to make memories with your family—as if we haven't had enough togetherness in 2020.

Put on your chef hat:

New Year's Eve is known for parties and festivities, but New Year's Day is known for food that supposedly brings good luck. Get a head start on your New Year's cooking by making *all* the delicious holiday foods we know and love—like greens, black eyed peas and pork. Make it extra special by having your fam join in on the fun.

Craft night

Get out your hot glue, markers and card stock for a night you'll never forget. While parties may be off the table this New Year's Eve, craft nights are *never* a bad idea. The options are limitless—you can make a scrapbook of 2020 memories, decorate a 2021 bucket list or craft a disco ball out of CDs. Not only will these activities be fun, but you'll have keepsakes that will always remind you of 2020.