I still can’t believe that another year has passed and real soon we’ll be ushering into a new one. As always December is the month in which we say bye to the ending year.

When December kicks in, everyone’s mind is on how best to spend the last day of the year-New Year’s Eve. However, on New Year’s Eve, there are two camps that emerge, the ones who like going out for a noisy celebration, and those who prefer a quieter evening with family and close friends.

Regardless of what you decide, what matters is making New Year’s Eve one memorable night because New Year’s Eve is by far the biggest party of the year. This year’s is much bigger because it falls on a Saturday, a day when almost everyone is free and partying is the only thing on their mind.

If you are planning on a house party, it is important to have family and close friends. Granted you will have appropriate discussions and jokes that will hardly make the party mood bitter.

Bear in mind that the first step to any party is setting the date. But since the date of this one is pretty evident, make sure your friends are available for the big night. You don’t want to have a whole night planned only to be spending it with a few people and way too much beer in the fridge. A phone call to the ones you want around should be made at least 24 hours prior to the party.

Light snacks, cocktails, a few beers and liquor would do at such a party because it will give people the opportunity to socialize, without restricting them to a designated seat at a dinner table. It’s advisable to use plastic cups, plates and cutlery to avoid breaking disasters and also doing dishes the morning-after - or the month after in this case!!

For those of you who prefer partying outside, there are always plenty of parties and concerts to go to - from nightclubs to live music and community events.

In Rwanda, the biggest party is always the Happy People Party. Equipped with loud music and great food, this party is the only one that offers Fireworks. And what is the New Year without fireworks? South African based DJ Bego will be there to take you through the 7th edition of the Happy People Party alongside our very own DJ Karim. The party begins at 10:00pm in the Minaffet Gardens and entrance is Rwf 10,000 though you can purchase a ticket on a 20% discount through Tigo Cash!!

While you’re busy dancing the night away at the Minaffet gardens, a host of superstars will be entertaining revelers at the Expo Grounds in Gikondo. They’ll be led by Mr. Flavor of the ‘Ashawo’ fame, Kidum, Daddy Cassa, Franky Joe, and tons more. Entrance is Rwf 5,000 and Rwf 2,000 for VIP seats and ordinary seats respectively.

For those of you who want to start your end of year celebrations today, Dr Jose Chameleone is performing tonight at Sports View Hotel right next to the Amahoro Stadium. He’ll be accompanied by Kitoko and Dream Boyz.

Anyways, just know that every club, pub and restaurant has something to entertain you with.

Happy New Year!!