The generation often described as staying in more than going out is turning out to be the most enthusiastic hosts. Survey data shows younger Americans planning more gatherings at home than any other age group. As the holidays approach, that shift is reshaping how many people will celebrate, right through to New Year's Eve.
What's trending
The International Housewares Association's 2026 At-Home Entertaining Survey was fielded by Morning Consult among 2,226 US adults. It found that 28% of Americans expected to host more gatherings at home in 2026, up from 24% the year before. Half planned to host about the same amount, and only 19% expected to host less, according to the IHA's announcement of the findings.
The standout number was generational. 47% of Gen Z said they planned to host more, followed by 39% of millennials. Gen X's intent dropped four points, and boomers held steady.
The trend is showing up in holiday forecasts too. A Deloitte survey cited in coverage of this week's NRF holiday forecast says Gen Z and millennial shoppers are driving growth in holiday spending. It also expects spending on holiday activities to fall 4%.
Why it's resonating
The reasons are practical and personal. In the IHA survey, the top motivations for hosting were wanting more time with friends and family (51%), having a specific event to celebrate (37%), and the lower cost compared with a restaurant or public venue (31%). "Our homes are becoming an even more valued refuge," IHA president and CEO Derek Miller said.
Younger hosts also want ideas. The top things that would inspire people to host more were budget-friendly party ideas or tips (46%) and recipes (45%). Half of consumers said they at least occasionally buy products to create a certain aesthetic at home. That's a sign that how a gathering looks matters as much as what's served.
The hurdles are familiar to anyone who's thrown a party. Cleanup topped the list (31%), followed by preparing everything at once (22%) and cooking (15%).
What it means for New Year's Eve
New Year's Eve is the biggest party night of the year and one of the most expensive to spend out. It's a natural fit for this shift. Younger hosts are reworking the night in ways that play to the survey's findings:
- Potluck or shared plates to split the cooking and the cost
- One signature sparkling drink for the midnight toast instead of a full bar
- A clear theme and look, from tablescapes to dress codes like "sparkle and shine"
- Digital invitations sent by text, which cost nothing to send and get quick replies in the group chat
Those invitations are often where the aesthetic starts. Editable templates let hosts set a mood without hiring a designer. A silver sparkle design like the Cheers to the New Year Invitation can be customized in Canva and texted to guests the same day.
The bottom line
Hosting is having a moment, and younger Americans are driving it. With nearly half of Gen Z planning to entertain more, and holiday budgets shifting away from going out, expect more New Year's Eves to be celebrated in living rooms this year. They'll be thoughtfully styled, shared with friends and a lot more affordable than a night on the town.
Sources: housewares.org, indexbox.io