Every December 31st, over 1 million people gather in Times Square to welcome the new year, while millions more host their own parties at home.
Ready to throw an epic NYE bash?
The right party gadgets can transform your space into a dazzling celebration hub that rivals the iconic Times Square ball drop.
Did you know Americans drink roughly 360 million glasses of sparkling wine on New Year’s Eve? That’s a lot of bubbly to keep chilled! The right gadgets can help you serve drinks at the perfect temperature all night long.
And the best part? Many of these gadgets work year-round for other celebrations too.
Bluetooth-enabled instant camera
What we liked:
- Vintage-style prints with modern controls
- Creative lens filters included
- App integration for manual settings
The Polaroid Now+ is like the cool kid of instant cameras. It takes those classic square photos we all love, but with a high-tech twist. You can use it as a simple point-and-shoot, or get fancy with the companion app to adjust settings like a pro. It even comes with clip-on filters to add some pizzazz to your pics.
But here’s the kicker – while it’s fun to play around with, those film packs aren’t cheap. Each shot costs about as much as your morning latte. So you might want to think twice before snapping pics of your breakfast every day. Still, for capturing those New Year’s Eve shenanigans in retro style, this camera could be the life of the party.
Portable Bluetooth Speaker with Light Show
What we liked:
- Colorful LED lights sync with music
- 360-degree sound for immersive audio
- Waterproof design for worry-free partying
Ever been to a party where the music was great but the vibe was… meh? Enter the JBL Pulse 5. This isn’t just your average speaker; it’s a party in a bottle. With its mesmerizing light show, this bad boy turns any room into an instant disco. It’s like having a tiny nightclub in your hands, minus the overpriced drinks and sweaty strangers.
But don’t let its flashy exterior fool you. This speaker packs a serious punch in the sound department too. Its 360-degree audio fills every corner of the room, ensuring your guests can groove no matter where they’re standing. And if someone accidentally knocks it into the punch bowl? No worries! It’s waterproof, so it’ll keep the party going even after taking an unexpected swim. Just remember, while the speaker can handle a dip, your dance moves after too much eggnog might not be as graceful.
Cooler Table with Pop-Up Bar
What we liked:
- Hidden cooler with 7.5-gallon capacity
- Transforms from coffee table to cocktail table
- Weather-resistant and durable design
This nifty little number is like the Swiss Army knife of outdoor furniture. By day, it’s an innocent-looking side table, perfect for holding your iced tea while you lounge by the pool. But when the party starts, it transforms into a full-fledged bar, complete with a built-in cooler that can chill up to 40 cans. It’s like having a secret agent disguised as patio furniture.
The Keter Cool Bar isn’t just a pretty face – it’s built to withstand whatever Mother Nature throws at it. Made from weather-resistant resin, it won’t rust, peel, or dent, even if you leave it out during a hurricane. And when the party’s over, cleanup is a breeze thanks to the built-in drainage plug. Just pull the plug, let it dry, and it’s ready for your next soirée. It’s the perfect addition to any outdoor entertaining space, whether you’re hosting a New Year’s Eve bash or just enjoying a quiet evening under the stars.
Rechargeable Mosquito Repeller with 20-Foot Protection Zone
What we liked:
- No sprays or lotions on skin
- Portable and easy to use
- Long-lasting rechargeable battery
Ever been to a party where the uninvited guests were buzzing mosquitoes? Enter the Thermacell E55 Rechargeable Mosquito Repeller. This nifty gadget creates a 20-foot mosquito-free bubble, perfect for your New Year’s Eve bash. No more swatting or itching – just pure party vibes.
The E55 uses a heat-activated repellent to keep those pesky bloodsuckers at bay. With a 5.5-hour battery life, it’ll last through your countdown and beyond. Plus, it’s DEET-free and scent-free, so you won’t smell like a walking citronella candle. Just remember to fully charge it before the festivities begin, and you’re good to go. Who knew mosquito protection could be so chic?
Smart Outdoor String Lights with App Control
What we liked:
- Customizable colors and scenes
- Weather-resistant design
- Voice control compatibility
Looking to jazz up your New Year’s Eve bash? These smart outdoor string lights from Govee might just be the ticket. With a whopping 16 million colors to choose from and 47 scene modes, you can set the perfect vibe for your countdown to midnight. Whether you’re going for a classy white glow or a full-on rainbow party, these lights have got you covered.
But wait, there’s more! These bad boys are tough enough to withstand the elements, so you can leave them up year-round. And if you’re feeling lazy (hey, no judgment), you can control them with your voice using Alexa or Google Assistant. Just imagine impressing your guests by changing the lighting with a simple command. Talk about a party trick!
Portable Smokeless Fire Pit
What we liked:
- Compact and easy to transport
- Adjustable airflow for better combustion
- Doubles as a grill for outdoor cooking
This nifty gadget is perfect for backyard hangouts or camping trips. It’s a fire pit that claims to be smokeless, thanks to its clever airflow system. You can control the flames using a built-in fan, which you can adjust with your phone. Plus, it’s got a see-through mesh design, so you can watch the fire dance without getting smoke in your eyes.
While it’s not 100% smoke-free (let’s be real, that’s pretty much impossible), it does a decent job of reducing smoke compared to regular fire pits. Some users say it burns through wood faster than expected, but hey, that just means a hotter fire, right? It’s also got a grill attachment, so you can cook up some tasty treats while you’re chilling by the fire. Just don’t forget to grab a heat-resistant mat to protect your deck or grass.
LED Mood Ball with Remote Control
What we liked:
- 16 color options and 4 lighting modes
- Waterproof and portable design
- Long-lasting rechargeable battery
This 8-inch LED ball light is like a disco in your palm. It’s not just a lamp; it’s a party starter. With 16 colors and 4 lighting modes, you can set the mood from chill to rave in seconds. The remote control lets you play DJ from across the room, perfect for when you’re too comfy to move.
Built tough with a waterproof shell, this glowing orb can handle poolside shenanigans or backyard bashes. It’s rechargeable too, so you won’t be hunting for batteries when the fun’s about to start. Plus, it’s kid-friendly – no hot surfaces here, just cool vibes all around. Whether you’re jazzing up your living room or creating a magical garden atmosphere, this little light ball has got your back.
Retro-Style Portable Bluetooth Speaker
What we liked:
- Vintage radio design with modern features
- Compact size for easy portability
- Impressive sound quality for its size
Ever wanted to rock out like it’s 1955? The Muzen OTR Wood Bluetooth Speaker brings that old-school radio vibe to your New Year’s Eve bash. This little gadget packs a punch with its crisp sound and vintage looks. It’s like having a time machine in your pocket, minus the paradoxes.
Don’t let its size fool you – this speaker can fill a room with tunes. Whether you’re blasting “Auld Lang Syne” or your favorite playlist, the Muzen OTR Wood delivers clear audio that’ll make your guests say, “Wait, that tiny thing is making all that noise?” Plus, with its portable design, you can keep the party going from the living room to the backyard without missing a beat.
Smart Outdoor LED Strip Lights
What we liked:
- Customizable RGBIC lighting effects
- Easy app control via Bluetooth
- IP65 waterproof rating for outdoor use
These smart LED strip lights from Govee bring the party outside with 32.8 feet of colorful illumination. The RGBIC technology lets you personalize each segment of the strip for some seriously cool lighting effects. And with the Govee Home app, you can easily control the lights, adjust colors, set timers, and even sync them to music right from your phone.
Built to withstand the elements, these IP65 waterproof lights are perfect for decking out your patio, porch, or backyard for an epic New Year’s bash. The easy peel-and-stick installation means you can have them up in no time. With 16 million colors to play with, you’ll be able to set just the right vibe as the clock strikes midnight. Just don’t blame us if your neighbors get jealous of your rad outdoor lighting setup.
Electric Wine Opener with Accessories
What we liked:
- Opens wine bottles in seconds
- Comes with useful extras like aerator and vacuum stopper
- Rechargeable battery lasts for up to 70 bottles
The Crenova 6-in-1 Electric Wine Opener Set is like the Swiss Army knife of wine gadgets. It’s not just a fancy corkscrew; it’s a whole party in a box. With its sleek stainless steel design and blue LED light, it’ll make you feel like a wine-opening superhero at your New Year’s bash.
This nifty gadget doesn’t just pop corks – it’s got tricks up its sleeve. The aerator helps your wine breathe faster than a marathon runner, while the vacuum stopper keeps your leftover vino fresh (if there’s any left, that is). Plus, the foil cutter means you won’t be wrestling with that pesky wrapper like a cat with a ball of yarn. It’s the perfect wingman for your wine adventures.
Portable 1080p Projector with Auto-Adjustment
What we liked:
- Compact and lightweight design
- Intelligent auto-focus and keystone correction
- Built-in Android TV for streaming
The XGIMI MoGo 2 Pro is a pint-sized powerhouse that turns any flat surface into a mini cinema. This 1080p projector packs a punch with its 400 ISO lumens brightness and ability to create images up to 200 inches. It’s like having a movie theater in your pocket, minus the sticky floors and overpriced popcorn.
Setting up this little guy is a breeze thanks to its auto-focus and keystone correction features. No more fiddling with manual adjustments – just point and project. The built-in Android TV lets you stream your favorite shows without extra devices. While it might struggle in bright rooms, it shines in darker settings, making it perfect for those late-night Netflix binges or impromptu backyard movie nights.
Electric Arc Lighter with Flexible Neck
What we liked:
- Windproof and flameless design
- USB rechargeable with long battery life
- Flexible neck for hard-to-reach places
Ever tried lighting a candle in a hurricane? With this electric arc lighter, you might just pull it off. Its windproof design laughs in the face of breezy conditions, making it perfect for outdoor parties or that one friend who insists on having the ceiling fan on full blast.
But wait, there’s more! This gadget isn’t just a one-trick pony. Its flexible neck bends like a yoga master, reaching into deep candle jars and awkward grill corners with ease. Plus, it’s USB rechargeable, so you can say goodbye to those midnight runs for lighter fluid. Just plug it in, and you’re good to go for hundreds of lights. It’s like the Energizer Bunny of lighters, but cooler and less pink.
Wearable Blanket with Sleeves
What we liked:
- Extra-long back for full coverage
- Soft sherpa lining for warmth
- Roomy design for easy movement
Ever felt like a human burrito while trying to stay warm? Well, this wearable blanket takes cozy to a whole new level. It’s like wearing a hug from a fluffy cloud, but with the added bonus of being able to use your hands. Perfect for those who want to stay toasty while binge-watching their favorite shows or scrolling through social media.
The Bare Home Wearable Sherpa Blanket is a game-changer for anyone who’s tired of wrestling with regular blankets. With its roomy design and extra-long back, you can move around freely without feeling like you’re trapped in a fabric prison. Plus, the soft sherpa lining will make you feel like you’re being cuddled by a teddy bear. It’s the perfect companion for those chilly New Year’s Eve parties where you want to stay warm without sacrificing style.
Smartphone Gimbal with Magnetic Clamp
What we liked:
- Compact and foldable design
- Smooth 3-axis stabilization
- ActiveTrack 6.0 for subject tracking
Ever tried filming a TikTok dance while running? Yeah, it’s not pretty. Enter the DJI Osmo Mobile SE, your new BFF for shake-free videos. This nifty gadget turns your smartphone into a mini Hollywood studio, minus the fancy equipment and overpriced lattes. With its magnetic clamp, you can snap your phone in faster than you can say “action!”
But wait, there’s more! This gimbal isn’t just about smooth moves. It’s got ActiveTrack 6.0, which is fancy talk for “it follows you around like a loyal puppy.” Perfect for those solo New Year’s Eve dance parties or capturing your friends’ midnight shenanigans. And with up to 6 hours of battery life, it’ll outlast most of your party guests.
Smokeless Indoor Grill
What we liked:
- Produces minimal smoke for indoor grilling
- Easy to clean with dishwasher-safe parts
- Adjustable temperature control for versatile cooking
The Chefman Electric Smokeless Indoor Grill is a game-changer for apartment dwellers and winter grill enthusiasts. This compact powerhouse lets you sear steaks and flip burgers without setting off smoke alarms or freezing your buns off outside. With its non-stick surface and water-filled drip tray, it’s like having a tiny, well-behaved barbecue right on your countertop.
While it won’t give you that authentic charcoal flavor, it does a surprisingly good job at creating those coveted grill marks. The temperature control lets you go from gentle veggie roasting to steak-searing heat. Just don’t expect miracles – it’s still an electric grill, so patience is key. But hey, at least you can grill in your pajamas without the neighbors judging you.
Glass Oil Mister with Pump Action
What we liked:
- Easy to fill and use
- Transparent glass design
- Versatile for various oils and dressings
This nifty little gadget is perfect for health-conscious party hosts who want to control their oil usage. It’s basically a fancy perfume bottle for your kitchen, letting you spritz olive oil, vinegar, or even soy sauce with a few pumps. The clear glass body means you can see exactly how much oil is left, so you won’t run out mid-cooking frenzy.
While it’s not quite as effortless as those aerosol cans, it’s a lot more eco-friendly and wallet-friendly in the long run. Just be careful not to drop it on your counter, or you might end up with an oily mess to clean up. Some users say it works best when held upright, so maybe save the fancy chef moves for when you’re using a regular bottle.
Glass Oil Mister with Pump Action
What we liked:
- Easy to fill and use
- Transparent glass design
- Versatile for various oils and dressings
This nifty little gadget is perfect for health-conscious party hosts who want to control their oil usage. It’s basically a fancy perfume bottle for your kitchen, letting you spritz olive oil, vinegar, or even soy sauce with a few pumps. The clear glass body means you can see exactly how much oil is left, so you won’t run out mid-cooking frenzy.
While it’s not quite as effortless as those aerosol cans, it’s a lot more eco-friendly and wallet-friendly in the long run. Just be careful not to drop it on your counter, or you might end up with an oily mess to clean up. Some users say it works best when held upright, so maybe save the fancy chef moves for when you’re using a regular bottle.
FAQs
What’s the ideal budget for New Year’s Eve party gadgets?
Most essential party gadgets range between $20-200. Start with basics like a quality Bluetooth speaker ($50-100) and LED party lights ($20-40). For bigger budgets, consider investing in a professional-grade lighting system or a smart home entertainment setup that you’ll use throughout the year.
Which gadgets create the best party atmosphere?
LED strip lights with music sync capabilities create instant ambiance. Smart bulbs that change colors via app control let you match the mood as midnight approaches. Don’t forget a quality speaker system – the Sonos One offers room-filling sound and voice control through Alexa or Google Assistant.
How can I recreate the Times Square ball drop experience at home?
You can create your own countdown spectacle with smart LED bulbs programmed to flash at midnight. Add a mini disco ball with rotating LED lights for that iconic effect. The real magic happens when you sync these with your smart speaker system playing the official countdown. Some hosts even use mini drone light shows for outdoor celebrations – just check local regulations first.
