How to plan a New Year’s Eve party: complete guide + checklist
Planning a memorable New Year’s Eve party doesn’t need to be overwhelming when you choose the right venue. At Lucky Strike, you’ll find everything you need to host an unforgettable night including bowling lanes, arcade games, a chef-driven menu, cocktails, and lounge-style seating that sets the stage for celebration. This guide walks you through planning step by step, with a checklist to keep the details stress-free.
Laying the foundation at Lucky Strike
The first step in planning is to decide what kind of night you want to create. Lucky Strike can accommodate it all; from intimate gatherings with close friends to full-venue parties that feel like a night out on the town. With built-in entertainment, private event spaces, and food and beverage options, much of the planning is already handled.
Choosing a theme adds even more energy to the night. A glam and glitter theme pairs perfectly with Lucky Strike’s upscale lounge feel, while a retro bowling party is right at home under the neon lights. Families can even make it a festive game night by combining bowling with arcade play and kid-friendly bites.
Invitations and guest communication
Invitations set the tone for your party, so send them out about three weeks before the big night. Include important details like the start time, dress code, and any special activities, such as karaoke, a photo booth, or a midnight champagne toast. Digital invitations are not only easy to send, but they can also match your theme visually. Clear communication upfront helps guests feel prepared and adds to the excitement.
Entertainment that builds to midnight
Lucky Strike makes entertainment effortless. Bowling naturally keeps everyone engaged, while arcade games and lounge spaces give guests plenty of options between turns. Many locations also offer karaoke or can accommodate special activities like trivia or themed contests.
Want to capture memories? Set up a photo booth station by your lanes, or lean on Lucky Strike’s lively atmosphere to make your own “backdrop.” As midnight approaches, you can shift the playlist to high-energy tracks and set the vibe for the countdown. You’ll even find rotating entertainment specials that can add an extra spark to the night.
Food and drinks that keep energy high
At Lucky Strike, you don’t have to worry about cooking or cleanup. Lucky Strike’s food menu is designed for sharing, with favorites like sliders, wings, and flatbreads that are easy to enjoy between games. Pair them with fresh, vegetable-forward options and finish the night with sweet treats or mini desserts.
The full-service bar keeps the drinks flowing all evening. Consider working with the team to design a signature cocktail (with a mocktail version) that ties into your theme. Of course, champagne is always ready for the midnight toast.
Creating the countdown moment
The highlight of the evening is ringing in the new year together, and Lucky Strike makes it easy to set the stage. About 30 minutes before midnight, encourage guests to grab a final round of drinks and photos. Staff can help distribute noisemakers, party hats, or sparklers.
Most Lucky Strike venues feature big screens that can broadcast the ball drop, so the countdown feels larger than life. When the clock strikes twelve, confetti, cheers, and a celebratory playlist keep the energy high.
New Year’s Eve party planning checklist
Before the party
Book your Lucky Strike location using the location finder.
Choose your party package and confirm start time.
Select a theme and dress code.
Send invitations at least three weeks in advance.
Coordinate with the venue on food, drinks, and a signature cocktail.
Add entertainment extras: photo booth, karaoke, or party favors.
Order décor if desired (Lucky Strike already provides the atmosphere).
Day before
Confirm your headcount with the venue.
Review your package details with Lucky Strike’s event team.
Prep any additional décor or favors you’re bringing.
Day of
Arrive early to personalize your space.
Set out favors, noisemakers, or themed décor.
Confirm champagne service for midnight with staff.
Enjoy your night — Lucky Strike handles the rest.
Celebrate with ease at Lucky Strike
The key to an unforgettable New Year’s Eve is choosing a venue that’s as fun as it is stress-free. Lucky Strike brings bowling, arcade games, signature food and cocktails, and a party-ready atmosphere all under one roof. Explore party packages and use the location finder to get started.
With this guide and checklist, you’re ready to plan a New Year’s Eve party that your guests will be talking about long into the new year.