As this year comes to an end, many of us are looking forward to celebrating the arrival of the new year with friends and family.

Throwing a New Year's Eve party can be a lot of fun and a great way to celebrate the year past surrounded by those you love.

Here are some tips to help you throw a successful and memorable New Year's Eve party:

Choose a theme

Deciding on a theme for your party can help set the tone and make it more exciting for your guests. Are you keeping it simple and classic, or opting for something a bit different?

Some popular options include a masquerade party, a black tie party, or a Roaring Twenties-themed party.

Plan the decorations

Once you have chosen a theme, you can start planning your decorations. Classic New Year's decorations include balloons, streamers, confetti, and other fun items.

Be sure to also include a way to keep an eye on the time, so you can countdown to midnight. You may also wish to include some noisemakers or sparklers for your guests to use at midnight.

Plan the food

Make sure you keep everyone fed! Decide on the type of food and drinks you want to serve at your party.

One option is to serve a selection of appetizers and finger foods. This allows guests to mingle and snack on a variety of dishes throughout the evening. Here are some ideas:

• Veggie platters with dips
• Mini quiches
• Sausage rolls
• Pigs in blankets
• Cheese and crackers
• Crisps

Another option is to serve a main dish that can be easily served in small portions. For example, you could serve a hearty soup or stew that guests can ladle into bowls, or a large casserole, pie or lasagne that can be sliced into individual portions.

No New Year's Eve party is complete without desserts! Serve a variety of sweet treats that guests can enjoy as they ring in the new year. Some ideas for desserts include:

• Chocolates/truffles
• A cake, or mini cupcakes
• Chocolate-covered strawberries
• Brownies
• Bakewell Tarts

Be sure to include options for guests who have dietary restrictions or preferences.

Offer a selection of drinks

Don't forget to provide a variety of non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages for your guests to enjoy. Offer a signature cocktail or mocktail, as well as a selection of beer, wine, spirits and soft drinks.

Popular options for a New Year's party include sparkling wine, mulled wine or cider and flavoured martinis.

Set the mood with music

Music can help set the mood and create a fun atmosphere at your party. Create a playlist of upbeat and festive songs to play throughout the evening. You can also consider clearing a dance floor so your guests can bust a move...

Have fun

Above all, remember to have fun and enjoy yourself at your own party! Greet your guests with a smile, mix and mingle with them, and make sure everyone is having a good time.

Happy New Year!