New Year's Eve Party Food Calculator
New Year's Eve parties are unique - they run late, lead up to a midnight moment, and call for celebratory food and drinks. Plan appetizers that keep guests satisfied until the ball drops and beyond.
Popular Dec-Jan
Quick Estimates for 40 Guests
Here's what you'll need if serving these foods together at your new year's eve party:
Estimated total cost: $459 - $1058
🦐
Shrimp
168 shrimp
Est. $67-$134
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Sliders
84 sliders
Est. $126-$252
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Cheese Tray Servings
56 oz
Est. $28-$84
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Nacho Servings
28 servings
Est. $56-$112
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Meatballs
140 meatballs
Est. $70-$140
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Cake Slices
28 slices
Est. $56-$140
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Cookies
56 cookies
Est. $28-$84
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Drinks
56 drinks
Est. $28-$112
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Planning Timeline
1
2 weeks before: Send invitations, plan theme and menu
2
1 week before: Order champagne, confirm guest count
3
2-3 days before: Shop for all food and supplies
4
1 day before: Prep appetizers, chill champagne, set up space
5
Day of party: Final prep, stage food in waves
6
11 PM: Prepare champagne glasses for midnight toast
💡 Pro Tips
- • Plan food in waves: appetizers at 9pm, heavier food at 10-11pm, post-midnight snacks
- • Budget 1/2 bottle of champagne per person for toasts and drinking
- • Have coffee ready for guests driving home
New Year's Eve Party Planning Tips
- Plan food that's easy to eat while mingling and dancing
- Time your main spread for before midnight (10-11pm)
- Have champagne and non-alcoholic options ready for the toast
- Set up late-night snacks for after midnight
- Keep hot appetizers in warming trays
- Plan for a breakfast option if the party goes late
Food Safety Resources:
Frequently Asked Questions
How much champagne for a New Year's Eve party?
Plan for 1 glass per person for the midnight toast (6 glasses per bottle). If serving champagne throughout, plan for half a bottle per person. Always have sparkling cider or non-alcoholic options too.
What time should I serve food at a NYE party?
Serve light appetizers when guests arrive (9pm), heavier appetizers from 10-11pm, and save some snacks for after midnight. Having late-night food helps guests pace themselves with alcohol.
What are the best New Year's Eve party foods?
Elegant finger foods work best: shrimp cocktail, fancy cheese boards, bruschetta, stuffed mushrooms, pigs in blankets, and sliders. End with something sweet and celebratory like chocolate truffles or cake.