The start of a new year signifies the start of new beginnings. But it also provides us with a unique opportunity to look back on the years passed and reflect on all the good times. So, being the TV junkie that I am, that also means kicking back and watching some of my all-time favorite New Year's TV episodes on Netflix to help get me pumped for the coming year. (After all, it isn't truly a holiday without some sort of TV marathon thrown into the mix.) Christmas episodes may get all of the attention this time of year, but don't let that mislead you. There are a ton of New Year's themed TV episodes out there for you to enjoy, and thanks to the power of Netflix streaming, you have a vast majority of them right at your fingertips at all times.
So as you prepare to drink more than your fair share of champagne and toast to 2016, make sure you use some of that much-deserved relaxation time to catch up on some of these great New Year's classics. Not only will it leave you grateful for the past, but it'll also get your excited for the future and happy in the present. And really, what more could you ask for than that?
1. Friends — “The One With The Routine”
When you're invited to something as prestigious as Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve, you pull out all the stops on the dance floor, which is exactly what Ross and Monica did with their coordinated dance routine from middle school. It'll have you mimicking their awesome dance moves well into the New Year — guaranteed. (Season 6, Episode 10)
2. 30 Rock — “Klaus And Greta”
When you have guest stars like James Franco and Julianne Moore thrown into the mix of an already star-studded cast, you know it's bound to produce something special. While Jack faced the horror of leaving an embarrassing message to his high school sweetheart (hey, we've all been there), Jenna agreed to enter into a fake relationship with James Franco. (Though we all know his heart belongs to his Japanese body pillow.) Just try not to laugh hysterically throughout this episode. I dare you. (Season 4, Episode 9)
3. How I Met Your Mother — "The Limo"
Ted's attempt to hit five New Year's parties in the course of three hours may not have gone exactly according to plan, but the gang still managed to create a night of memories none of us will soon forget. Between Barney's "Get Psyched" mix and their Not-Moby run-in, this episode is definitely a must-see. Plus, anything involving a limo is automatically a good time. (Season 1, Episode 11)
4. The Office — “Ultimatum”
When isn't celebrating a holiday with Michael Scott not a thing of beauty? Upset over the fact that Holly is still with her boyfriend, A.J., Michael does what he does best and creates chaos among his staff and their New Year's resolutions. So, you know, just another typical day at Dunder Mifflin. (Season 7, Episode 12)
5. Frasier — "RDWRER"
Drinking champagne outside of their out-of-gas Winnebago wasn't exactly how these usually haughty Crane boys had expected to ring in the new millennium, but as this episode proved, it's not always about where you are, but rather who you're with. (Season 7, Episode 12)
6. Gossip Girl — “The End Of The Affair”
Life on the Upper East Side is full of drama, no matter what time of year it is, but this New Year's Eve episode proved to be exceptionally compelling, given that it involved a surprise Dan and Serena kiss, but also explained (thanks to flashbacks) what happened between Chuck and Blair after their horrific car accident. You'll laugh. You'll cry. You'll pray for a spin-off. XOXO. (Season 5, Episode 11)
7. Modern Family — “New Year’s Eve”
A Dunphy family vacation to Palm Springs. Need I say more? (Season 4, Episode 11)
So curl up with a warm blanket, some holiday goodies, and let the New Year's streaming commence!
Images: NBC (2); Giphy (2); doubleirony/Tumblr; spillthepopcorn/Tumblr; un-devel0ped/Tumblr; ABC
