Our New Year’s Eve party checklist

There’s no better way to ring in the new year than with your nearest and dearest – and no better place to host than your very own backyard. Private, relaxed and away from the New Year’s Eve crowds, it’s the ideal spot to enjoy a low-key yet memorable evening and seriously impress your guests.

Not quite NYE-ready? You don’t need to undertake an entire backyard overhaul to prepare your space for entertaining. A few hero pieces paired with items you already own can really elevate your set-up.

Head to your nearest store to find these must-have hosting essentials.

A BBQ that cooks for a crowd

If you’re catering the event yourself, a barbecue is a non-negotiable. You can cook up your NYE feast outdoors, allowing you to mingle with your guests and soak up the summer atmosphere. A barbecue is also hugely versatile; if steaks and snags aren’t your thing, you can whip up crispy pizzas, grilled veg or even a NYE roast.

Choose a model with enough space to cook for a crowd, like this entertainer-friendly four-burner barbecue, which has both a cast-iron grill and a side burner for preparing sauces. It’s also got room for storing tools, paper towel and condiments, and comes equipped with a handy bottle opener for serving drinks.

Find out what you need to know before choosing your next BBQ.

A serving tray for snacks, sips and share platters

A large serving tray is a great way to keep your guests topped up throughout the evening. You can use it to transport everything from nibbles to drinks, or you can create a cheese or grazing board where everyone can help themselves.

If you don’t have one, it’s easy to make your very own with this D.I.Y. serving tray project. It’s a fun activity to knock over during the summer break and is bound to wow your guests. To amp up the NYE aesthetic, mix in a few visual touches such as greenery or tealights.

A sleek and spacious dining setting

The dining space will be the focal point of your outdoor set-up, so it’s worth putting in a bit of extra effort to make it feel inviting and party ready.

Start with a sizeable outdoor table that comfortably fits your whole party, then add some versatile seating that allows everyone to sit back and connect. Outdoor dining benches are perfect for keeping everyone close, while individual outdoor chairs are ideal if you prefer more flexibility.

When it comes to table decorations, you’ve likely got everything you need to take your dining setting from simple to celebratory. Add fun elements like a textured table runner, candles, greenery, fancy napkins and statement tableware and cutlery to dial up the festive ambience.

An outdoor couch for chats and kicking back

When your guests aren’t feasting around the table, they’ll want somewhere to unwind and enjoy the evening. A comfortable lounging area acts as a central gathering spot and makes your outdoor entertaining space more cohesive. Plus, you can style it with soft textiles you have on hand – think colourful cushions and cosy throws for when the temperature drops.

You could opt for a spacious outdoor sofa, or a more compact outdoor daybed where guests can stretch out. A lounge with stain-resistant fabric is a smart choice that makes cleaning up a breeze.

Some much-needed shade

With New Year’s Eve falling in the height of summer, ample shade is a must – especially if you’re kicking off the celebrations early. Even if you’ve already got an in-built pergola or verandah, extra shade certainly wouldn’t hurt. You can use it to create different entertaining zones and let your guests spread out to other areas of your backyard.

Cantilever outdoor umbrellas are both a practical and stylish option. They’re easy to set up, provide plenty of coverage and can be angled or repositioned as the sun shifts. They also have major resort-style vibes, making your NYE set-up feel that little bit more special.

Festoon lights for a festive mood

As the sun goes down, outdoor lighting becomes key to setting the mood. You could easily use what you already have – candles, lanterns, solar lights or table lamps – but string lights instantly create a magical atmosphere.

Festoon lights are a standout pick, adding a soft twinkly touch that’s just right for New Year’s Eve. They can also be connected to another set of lights, allowing you to spread the sparkle around your entire outdoor space.

Find out the best way to hang festoon lights.

Ready to prepare for your New Year’s Eve party?

Head in-store or shop online to tick off your New Year’s Eve hosting checklist.

Frequently asked questions

How can I prepare my backyard for New Year’s Eve without a big makeover?

You don’t need a full outdoor renovation to get party ready. A few considered additions – such as a dining setting, an outdoor couch or festive lighting – can completely elevate your space. Using pieces you already own, like table decor or cushions, keeps things simple while still creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

What should I look for when choosing a barbecue for entertaining?

A barbecue that offers enough cooking space is essential if you’re hosting a crowd. Look for features like multiple burners, a mix of grill plates, built-in storage and a side burner to help you prepare sauces or sides. A versatile barbecue lets you cook a range of dishes, from grilled vegetables to pizzas or even a roast.

What type of outdoor lighting works best for a New Year’s Eve gathering?

Festoon lights are a crowd favourite for their warm, inviting glow. They instantly create a celebratory atmosphere and can be connected to additional sets to brighten larger areas. You can also complement them with candles, lanterns or table lamps for layered lighting.

What should I do if the weather turns bad on New Year’s Eve?

Have a backup plan for rain or extreme heat. Consider extra umbrellas, a covered area, or moving some activities indoors. Remind guests to bring jackets for cooler evenings.