How to find a date For New Year's Eve

There's no shame in being single on New Year's Eve. But if you feel you must have a date, here's how to scrounge one up.

Step 1: Get the word out
Send an email to everyone in your address book asking if they know someone who might want to ring in the New Year with you, no strings attached.

Step 2: Book a singles getaway
Book a singles getaway sometime in mid-December. You’ll meet plenty of other people anxious to connect—and there won’t be enough time for you to break up before New Year’s!

If you can’t afford a trip, take a holiday-season retail job. Hey, everybody has to buy gifts.

Step 3: Become a social butterfly
Attend every holiday party that comes your way, even if you are: a) exhausted, b) not in the mood, c) positive it’s going to be a bore.

Instead of zoning out or IM’ing your friends when you’re out and about, smile at attractive strangers.

Step 4: Try internet dating
Try internet dating. If you’re already a member of a service, find some new faces by taking advantage of free trials with their competitors in the weeks leading up to New Year’s.

Maximize your opportunities by setting up as many quickie dates as you can—meet people for breakfast, lunch, afternoon coffee, evening drinks. And arrive early—you never know who else you might meet!

Step 5: Attend a singles' party
If all else fails, attend a singles’ party on New Year’s Eve. It might not be the intimate night you’d hoped for, but you just may find someone special to kiss at midnight.

Fact: According to a survey, Northeastern residents spend the most money celebrating New Year’s Eve, while Westerners spend the least.