Many people consider New Year's Day the unofficial end of the holiday season. That often means that New Year's Eve is an opportunity to socialize, gather and party one final time before returning to the routines of daily life.

The first known instance of New Year's celebrations can be traced to around 2,000 B.C. in the region of Mesopotamia. Celebrants gathered in March, rather than January, as this was the time of the vernal equinox, when the darkness of winter subsided and agricultural life could begin anew.

As individuals count down the days until New Year's Eve festivities, the following planning tips may make the celebrations occasions to remember.

Party planners may consider giving their event a theme. Guests can come dressed as dynamic duos like Mario and Luigi, or the party can evoke a bygone era, such as the Roaring '20s. Let guests know what they can do to play the part.

Decorations should be tied into the theme as well. Classic New Year's Eve decorations include balloons, streamers and confetti. Hosts may consider a festive balloon arch or backdrop that also can serve as a place to pose for photo opportunities.

In order to avoid guests becoming wiped out by the time midnight arrives, start the party at around 9 or 10 p.m. and anticipate its lasting into the wee hours of the morning.

Hosts may also tailor drinks to the season. They may utilize seasonal ingredients when crafting drinks or serve drinks that are expected at this time of year, such as eggnog that includes alcohol or cranberry Moscow mules.

To keep guests having fun at the party, provide various activities. Festivities may include card games or board games, karaoke or a trivia contest.

Beverages should be accessible. Unless the host is hiring a bartender who will be on call to pour drinks, having drinks ready to go is a smart idea. In addition to cans or bottles of beer or malt beverages, have ready-to-go mixed drinks available by selecting a signature drink and preparing a bulk batch.

Foods should also be provided in a self-serve fashion. Finger foods and bite-sized morsels may not require guests to carry plates, reducing the chances for spillage. Sliders, miniature quiches and dessert shooters may be suitable.

Hosts should also try to curate a winning playlist. They may ask guests to submit a list of their favorite tunes to help compile a collection of songs that will ebb and flow with the evening's events. Hosts should include tunes suited to singing along like "Don't Stop Believin'" or "Tiny Dancer."

Those planning parties may choose to offer takeaway gifts for designated drivers. Encourage guests to stay sober and volunteer for designated driving duties by offering prizes. Ideas include gift cards to coffee shops or restaurants.

Hosts should also be ready for midnight. They should provide a large television to show the midnight countdown and start pouring champagne roughly 20 minutes before midnight to ensure all glasses are full when the clock strikes 12.

New Year's Eve celebrations get an extra boost when the party is well-planned.