Why would anyone want to stay home on New Year's Eve? Well, as it turns out there are lots of reasons to ring in the New Year in the comfort of your own home and lots of creative ways to do so. 

Of course staying home negates the need to designate a driver and keeps everyone safer, but a lot of folks just enjoy being with the ones they love as the year draws to a close — reminiscing about the ups and downs of the past 12 months.

With or without alcohol some people choose to cook lavish meals and share them with their immediate families or a few close friends or neighbors.

My neighbors enjoy a mean tournament of Texas Hold 'Em during which we actually draw up poster boards and bet on the betting. One neighbor donates the use of their house for the party and the tables are set up for play.

One year, just after we got texting as on option on our phones my neighbor and I sat around texting "Happy New Year" to everyone we knew. It sounds ridiculous now but it was the novelty of it.

Toasting the New Year without alcohol can be a creative and rewarding experience (mainly you'll be the one feeling great on Jan. 1).

Family New Years Eve parties are another option for the stay-at-home celebrator—especially for those with small children. Family parties seem to be making a comeback — particularly with a downed economy and tougher drunk driving laws.

Some families do potluck, others pizza and still others a seafood or Mexican extravaganza. All attendees can bring something (including their own booze if they choose) and after dinner the real fun begins.

Board games, party games and even Karaoke can make a hum drum night at home a real celebration.

And just because you're spending the evening in your living room doesn't mean you forget the party favors. Some people let the kids decorate the house and themselves, blowing their horns all the while.