What is the big deal about parties?? Gatherings of the type you named are a big waste of time and money. I did not like parties when I was a child, and that dislike has continued into adulthood. I am really strongly against any gathering which has "adult beverages" (that is an excuse for "I cannot stand the presence of these people without getting high)or is demeaning to women. (clubbing etc.) Family gatherings and those related to church are the best!! You do not have to be anyone but yourself in those situations. So now you have the view of a curmudgeon!!