Stumped as to how you want to bring in 2009?No need to be a stress head as this is your party guide to bringing in the New Year in style - hottest events, inspiring ideas + tips and hints on keeping it stress-free

The romantics
Planning on spending New Years with your husband, boyfriend or latest crush? Why not plan a romantic picnic for two? Whether on the beach, in a park or in bush land, there are so many places that you could have a great time having a picnic.

When planning a picnic with your beau it's important to remember that because you are outdoors the easiest type of food to take would be cold food in a cooler bag. Choose from strawberries covered in chocolate, homemade salads and fresh seafood. To set the mood, why not bring some lanterns or even candles? And to make yourselves comfortable wherever you choose to have your picnic, bring a blanket or a throw rug to sit on. Then sit, eat and enjoy the mood.

Tip: If you decide to take candles you should see if there are any fire restrictions in the area. If not, rock on!

The beach bombshells
Are you a beach babe who can't stand all the hustle and bustle of the city? Well, a beach party is the thing for you on New Year's Eve! The best thing about a beach party is you will be casual and in comfy shoes! (Ladies!) An eski filled with ice and drinks is a necessity at any beach party. Punch and sandwiches are a great idea too.

To get a beach party really rolling the best game to play is Limbo! All you need is a stick and the game is ready to go! Or, if you feel like being really active bring a Frisbee or a ball and have a game of volleyball. Also, to make your beach party a bit different you could organise a theme.

Tip: At beach parties it is best not to get carried away in the moment and to go swimming after dark. The tides are stronger and it's harder to see in the dark. Anyone see Jaws?

The ravers
Keen to have a house party but stressing about what you need and the damage that might be done? Well, there are some ingredients that can give you an instant calming factor when organising a house party. Make sure there is LOTS of food. Especially if you plan on drinking, you don't want your friends being sick in your house.

If you are thinking of drinking make sure you have alternatives to alcohol so guests can pace themselves and avoid getting totally out of it and ruining their night and others. Try to get as many different types of music as you can so everyone can enjoy, and if you don't have that many CD's ask people to bring some.

It's best to seal off a few sections of the house, like your parents room, so people can't go in there. And, before you bring the house down with your partying it's a good idea to put expensive things that can break in a secure room so they can't be broken.

Tip: If you want the house party to be a small gathering don't tell too many people about it and make sure your friends know not to spread the word. Like don't go inviting people on myspace or facebook!

Do the neighbourly thing and pop a note in your neighbours mail boxes letting them know about your party plans. That way they are on alert and will be more likely to be accepting of your noise levels!

The city slickers (city fireworks and city main events and family events)
Don't feel like partying the New Year in too hard this year but still want to up the fun factor of your New Year's celebrations? Why not go and see the fireworks. In every State in Australia there are certain places that are renowned for their fireworks display. If you're not into fireworks, there are also heaps of free events to go to with friends or family.

N.S.W: The Fireworks at Sydney Harbor are known for their spectacular show. At 9pm the family fireworks go off with the main firework show starting at midnight. Vantage points are anywhere on the harbour foreshore and you can bet if you are in the city it will be HUGE!

QLD: The fireworks at the South Bank Parklands in Brisbane are an awesome way to hail in the New Year. The fireworks at this event start at 9pm.

Victoria: In Melbourne the place to watch the fireworks is Waterfront City. It is right on the Harbour and offers family fun while providing the best view.

SA: Elder Park in Adelaide is the place to see the fireworks if your partying the New Year in Adelaide. It is free entry and starts at 8pm-midnight. There are amusement rides, party bands and entertainment for the young and old. If you are not planning on drinking then the Victoria Bridge is the place for you to watch the fireworks as it is an alcohol-free zone.

WA: The place to go is Eastern Foreshore, Mandurah. There are two fireworks' displays, live music, family entertainment and side shows. Something for everyone at this entertaining and family-friendly spot.

TAS: In Hobart the place to be is the Pier, on Elizabeth Street. Although this isn't a free event and will cost $140 per person, you will be able to see the fireworks in style and won't have to worry about getting a seat or organising your own food as it is all provided for you.

NT: Reign in the New Year in style by spending it on Darwin Wharf. The whole family can enjoy the free show with fireworks, live shows and al fresco dining beneath the stars.

ACT: The City Square in Canberra is a great spot for seeing the fireworks. There will be two fireworks' displays and rides and entertainment in the Town Square.

Tips: It's best to go early to events like these to get the best spot to see the fireworks or the event. It also gives you some time to relax and enjoy the view before the stampede of people come and the fireworks or event start.