Age group(s) for this celebration activity:
Preschool and Younger
Elementary School
Middle School
High School & Beyond

Description of this celebration activity:
While there are parties and activities during the holiday season that include children, there are many celebrations that don't include the kids. "The adult table" at Thanksgiving, office holiday parties, etc. Because we have always stayed home on New Year's Eve, we've created a family tradition to celebrate the coming of the New Year.

Setting up and preparing for this celebration activity:
Do the shopping for this activity on New Year's Eve -- that's part of the fun! Visit the video store and rent any movies that the kids want to watch. Shop for snacks (even usually forbidden ones). Pick up a deck of cards and break out the board games.

Prepare a special meal that evening (whatever the family favorites are or perhaps something that's normally not served at your house) and eat it by candlelight in the living room.

Spend the evening watching movies, playing cards and board games or even (GASP!) just talking. Spread sleeping bags or blankets on the floor and let the whole family camp out for the night.

This has been a tradition at our house since my three teens were toddlers.