As the winter season ramps up for 2025, Staten Islanders are discovering a refreshing alternative to alcohol to power their celebrations. This year, consider embracing cannabis as your companion for bringing 2025 to a close and welcoming 2026.
Whether you’re heading out to one of the borough’s epic yacht parties or hosting friends at home, we’re here to help you ring in 2026 feeling good—and waking up even better.
What to Do for New Year’s Eve Around New York
There’s something for everyone seeking celebration on Staten Island while avoiding the typical bar scene:
1. A Midnight Kiss New Year’s Eve Fireworks Yacht Cruise
Ring in the New Year aboard a two-story 300-seat yacht that gives you amazing views of the annual New Year’s Eve Fireworks Display. The cruise offers a premium open bar and live DJs.
2. First Day Hike at Clay Pit Ponds
Every year, state parks around the country host a hike on New Year’s Day as an adventurous way to kick off the new year. On Staten Island, Clay Pit Ponds State Park plays host to the event.
3. Under the Stars New Year’s Eve Cruise
The multi-level Jewel party yacht plays host to the 2026 Under the Stars cruise. Guests on the yacht will be treated to entertainment from live DJs and a spectacular dinner buffet.
4. Margaritaville Gala in Paradise
No margaritas are required to enjoy ringing in 2026 at one of the three parties held by Margaritaville resort on New Year’s Eve. Make your way to the restaurant with the entire family for the all-ages-friendly New Year’s party.
5. New Year’s Eve Dance Party and Countdown
This event is for parents and their children. Hosted by the Staten Island Children’s Museum, this dance party features music by Patrick and the Rock-a-Silly band, confetti cannons, and a balloon drop to celebrate an early New Year.
Cannabis-Friendly New Year’s Party Ideas
Creating Memorable, Mindful Experiences
Throwing a party with cannabis presents some unique entertainment possibilities. For example, you can pair different cannabis strains with complementary foods, such as citrus notes with seafood or earthy strains with a charcuterie board.
With the many strains available, you can also host a strain-testing experience, where guests can explore the various cultivars and discuss the flavors and effects they’re experiencing.
Activity stations are also a fun idea, such as a painting corner, a meditation space, or a movie screening. The key here is to engage different interests and energy levels in ways that complement the effects of your chosen strains.
Hosting Tips for Mixed Groups
You may have guests who don’t consume cannabis. To help them still feel included, designate well-ventilated areas or outdoor spaces for cannabis consumption. Provide non-cannabis refreshments and activities to keep your guests entertained. Also, be transparent about any cannabis-infused foods by clearly labeling dishes and drinks to prevent accidental consumption.
Rethinking New Year’s Traditions: Cannabis Over Alcohol
The way Americans celebrate New Year’s is shifting as part of a broader cultural change. With the legalization of cannabis in many states, it has started to displace alcohol in social gatherings.
Unlike alcohol, cannabis leads to fewer poor decisions, hangovers, or health consequences, providing a cleaner path to celebration. Modern cannabis is even available in drink form, such as Ayrloom’s THC-infused lemonade, to bring a relaxed, social-friendly option to the table.
Celebrating New Year’s With Cannabis
Aside from fewer downsides than alcohol, cannabis provides some unique benefits for New Year’s celebrations. Consumers report enhanced sensory experiences, meaning the food will taste better, the music will sound better, fireworks will be more vibrant, and conversations will flow more smoothly.
By contrast, alcohol is known to numb the senses and even lead to forgetting parts of the evening entirely. For those trying to manage social anxiety, cannabis can ease the nerves without the depressant effects of alcohol.
Clearer Mornings & Intentional Celebrations
Think back to all the New Year’s you spent ringing in the year with alcohol. Now, think of the mornings after. Imagine starting 2026 without the pounding headache, nausea, or regret that often accompany alcohol. With cannabis as your choice over alcohol, you’ll be able to fully enjoy January 1st, like taking that hike at the Clay Pit Ponds.
As cannabis encourages mindfulness and intention-setting, the celebrations themselves will help you create resolutions that are more meaningful and achievable. A quick puff or two of a sativa-heavy strain, like Alibi Raspberry Lemonade, can provide even greater energy and mental clarity.
Weed Party Essentials
If you plan on throwing a weed party to celebrate New Year’s, be sure to take into account diverse consumption preferences, such as edibles for those who prefer not to smoke, vapes for those who prioritize portability, and traditional flower for purists.
Stock Up at Clouditude Dispensary Staten Island for New Year’s Eve
Located conveniently at 4035 Hylan Blvd, Clouditude Dispensary Staten Island is your one-stop shop for all your New Year’s Eve cannabis needs. Our knowledgeable staff will help you find products that are perfect for your plans.