Should You Go on a First Date on New Year’s Eve?
Whether you’re finally getting the courage to ask someone out or considering meeting one of your Tawkify matches for the first time, you might be wondering if you should round out the old year with a new date.
Now, you probably already realize there are a lot of expectations when it comes to holiday dating. Sometimes, the pressure of it all leads to snow-globing, while other times the magic can carry on well into the new year.
So, should you go on a first date on New Year’s Eve? While it’s ultimately up to you to decide whether to plan or agree to a NYE date, we’re here to offer some guidance. We’ve listed out just a few pros and cons for you to consider when mulling over a first date on New Year’s Eve.
Pros of Going on a First Date on NYE
A first date on New Year’s Eve can be a fun and flirty way to round out the year. The following are just a few of the pros associated with holiday dating:
It’s an Opportunity to Do Something Fancy
Between the coffee shops and dive bars, you’re probably sick of going to the same spots for your first dates. But when it comes to New Year’s Eve, you have the perfect excuse to do something unique—and maybe even get all dolled up for it!
The thing about New Year’s Eve date ideas is that they’re usually a step up from your average date ideas. Some involve fancy restaurants with five-course meals, while others include swanky ballrooms with live bands. If you’re craving an evening full of glitz and glam, then a December 31st date might be right up your alley.
It Might be the Start of Something Good
New Year’s Eve is symbolic of new beginnings, so a date on this special evening could mean the start of something new for you. And your date is likely aware of the connotations of going out on NYE with someone special, so there’s a good chance they’re willing to explore the idea of a relationship. That said, don’t get too far ahead of yourself or build up this first date to be something more than it is simply because of the date on the calendar.
It’s an Excuse to Take a Chance
Something about New Year’s Eve makes us all feel a little braver than usual. Maybe it’s that whole concept of out with the old and in with the new, or perhaps it’s the feeling of embracing a new year and new you.
Whatever it is, the night of December 31st is a time when you’re given the green light to get out of your comfort zone. For example, you might finally ask that special someone out or go in for that midnight kiss. If you’re usually shy or hesitant when it comes to the love department, a first date on New Year’s Eve might be just what you need to get out of your shell!
Cons of Going on a First Date on NYE
A New Year’s Eve first date can be exciting and magical, but there are some cons you ought to be mindful of before agreeing to welcome the new year together.
Lots of Alcohol is Usually Involved
Let’s be honest, most New Year’s Eve date ideas involve alcohol—and oftentimes, a lot of it. Whether you’re at a friend’s house party or a dance club in the city, there will likely be free-flowing alcohol until the wee hours of the morning. A little bit of alcohol can make you let loose and socialize more, but a lot of alcohol can impair your judgment.
Our number one first date tip (regardless of whether it’s NYE) is to be mindful of your alcohol consumption. Even if you think you know your date well, it’s important to keep your wits about you to help ensure you’re in a safe situation. When in doubt, don’t hesitate to call a sober driver and end the evening early.
The Date Could Just be an Excuse to Have Plans
There’s a lot of pressure to have amazing New Year’s plans, and if your date doesn’t have anything lined up, an evening with you could serve as an opportunity to do something on this romantically built-up holiday. Sure, your NYE date could go swimmingly, and you wind up in a long-term relationship, but it could also just be a one-time thing to pass the time on this night that often revolves around love.
To help protect your heart, go on a first date on New Year’s Eve with the understanding that it may not progress beyond the stroke of midnight.
The Pressure Can Complicate Your Feelings
The magic of New Year’s Eve can certainly get to your head, with all that glitter, confetti, and flutes overflowing with champagne, not to mention the slow dancing, the countdown to midnight, and, of course, that coveted kiss when the clock strikes 12. Everything about this holiday is sultry and sexy, which can put a lot of pressure on you if you’re having a first date on New Year’s Eve. But just because you’re “supposed” to have a magical evening like in the movies doesn’t mean you have to do anything you’re not comfortable doing.
Don’t let the expectations of this holiday cloud your thoughts and feelings. If you’re not enjoying your evening, nothing is making you stay out until midnight. And on the flip side, just because you watched the ball drop together doesn’t mean you’re destined to get married. Remember, NYE is really just another day, so try to stay level-headed when assessing your situation.
It Could be Crowded and Impersonal
As fun as it is to celebrate the new year with a date at a party, venue, club, or bar, do realize that these spaces are often loud and crowded, meaning you might not have a lot of quiet, one-on-one time. In fact, you might find yourselves screaming over the DJ music when trying to have a simple conversation.
While a bustling, lively environment can certainly provide an exciting atmosphere for ringing in the new year, it’s not exactly conducive to getting to know each other. Just be aware of the fact you might leave the date feeling like you didn’t have the chance to connect. If you want our first date tip, we recommend planning a quiet dinner for two before the festivities so you actually have the opportunity to chat.
