Planning a New Year’s Eve party in a marquee offers a unique and memorable way to ring in the New Year. With a marquee, you can create a cosy, festive space that keeps guests warm while embracing the magic of an outdoor setting. Here’s how to plan the perfect New Year’s Eve celebration under a marquee.
1. Choose a Theme
Choosing a theme can add excitement and cohesion to your event. Popular New Year’s Eve themes include “Hollywood Glamour,” “Winter Wonderland,” or a classic “Black & Gold” theme. The marquee can be decorated accordingly with lighting, decor, and furnishings that align with the theme and make it a memorable night.
2. Set Up Festive Lighting
Lighting is essential for creating the right New Year’s Eve ambiance. Consider chandeliers, fairy lights, and uplighting to give your marquee a magical glow. For extra effect, a starlight ceiling or twinkling fairy lights draped throughout can make the space feel cosy and festive, perfect for celebrating the New Year.
3. Include a Dance Floor
No New Year’s Eve party is complete without a dance floor! A black and white or LED dance floor adds an elegant, celebratory touch and will keep guests dancing through midnight. Add a sound system or a DJ booth for high-quality music that will set the party tone.
4. Create a Countdown Area
Designate a special area for the midnight countdown. This could be a central spot with a big clock, a balloon drop, or a large TV screen for live countdown broadcasts. This focal point adds excitement and brings guests together as they count down to the New Year.
5. Add a Bar and Refreshments
A well-stocked bar is a must for a New Year’s Eve party. Set up a drinks station with champagne, cocktails, and non-alcoholic options for all guests to enjoy. You could even hire a bartender to serve signature cocktails to add a touch of sophistication. Consider including a buffet or canapés for guests to snack on throughout the night.
6. Keep Guests Warm
As New Year’s Eve falls in the winter, keeping guests comfortable and warm is essential. Equip the marquee with heaters, blankets, and cosy seating areas. Fire pits can add warmth and charm, and they make a nice spot for guests to gather and socialise.
7. Provide Photo Opportunities
Set up a photo booth or designated photo area with fun props that tie into your theme. A New Year’s Eve backdrop with balloons, a “Happy New Year” banner, and sparkly props will encourage guests to capture memories and share them.
8. Plan for Fireworks or Sparklers
If your location allows it, fireworks or sparklers can add an extra thrill to your New Year’s Eve marquee party. Hand out sparklers for guests to light up at midnight, or plan a short fireworks display for a grand celebration to start the new year.
9. Offer Midnight Snacks
Keep the energy going with some midnight snacks! Small bites like sliders, warm pretzels, or hot chocolate can keep guests refreshed and fuelled for the last stretch of the night. Midnight treats add a special touch and will keep everyone in high spirits.
10. Have a Backup Plan
Winter weather can be unpredictable, so make sure your marquee is fully weatherproof. With sturdy flooring, wind protection, and heating, your marquee will be cosy and inviting, regardless of the weather outside.
A marquee New Year’s Eve party offers a unique, memorable way to celebrate the end of the year with friends and family. By planning each element carefully, you’ll create a festive and welcoming atmosphere that your guests will talk about well into the New Year.
For more information please contact Capitall Marquees on 01277 622233
