New Year's Day unofficially marks the end of the holiday season. After the turkey and trimmings of Thanksgiving and the gifts galore of Christmas and Chanukah, New Year's presents one final chance to toast to fun and fortune.

Chances are good that after an evening of ringing in the New Year and dancing until dawn, most people sleep in and catch up on a few extra hours sleep on Jan. 1. Breakfast may come and go before tired revelers are ready to greet the day. That is what makes brunch so popular on New Year's Day.

Brunch is a meal eaten in the late morning or early afternoon - generally between the hours of 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. - and consists of a blend of breakfast and lunch foods. Historical evidence suggests that brunch originated in the British upper classes in the late 19th century. Many upper-class people gave servants partial or full days off on Sundays. Staff would set out buffet spreads in the morning before leaving, enabling homeowners to graze among breakfast and lunch items.

It may be challenging to compete with the excitement of New Year's Eve, but a New Year's Day brunch can be just as memorable, especially when planning is a priority.

Hosts can make things easier by keeping the guest list on the small side. In turn, there will be less food required and perhaps less mess to clean up afterward.

Brunch combines the best of breakfast and lunch. Guests will expect some of the standards, including omelets, French toast, bagels, deli meats, and salads. If a host wants to get creative, they can change up these recipes in subtle ways, such as serving French toast stick dippers with a warm maple caramel dipping sauce or bite-size quiches baked in small ramekins.

Coffee, teas, and hot chocolate are great at brunch. Hosts should set up a nice beverage bar and be sure to include a variety of drinks.

Soft music and nice conversation may be all that is needed to entertain during a New Year's brunch. Another low-key option is to queue up a light-hearted movie or play a relatively easy trivia game.

New Year's brunches can close the door on another successful holiday season with a relaxing afternoon spent in the company of family and friends.