Ringing in the new year at home may be cozy and comfortable, but every once in a while, it’s worth putting down the TV remote and opting for a fanfare-filled event.
If you are going to travel for the new year, some destinations bring a better celebration than others.
These are the best NYE celebrations around the world:
1. Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo’s NYE is a blend of modern celebrations and traditional customs. Visit temples like Zojo-ji for “Joya no Kane,” the ringing of the bell 108 times to cleanse sins. Afterward, join countdown parties in Shibuya or revel in dazzling illuminations at Tokyo Tower.
2. Berlin, Germany
Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate hosts one of Europe’s largest open-air NYE celebrations, with live music, DJs, and fireworks. Keeping with tradition, “Pfannkuchen” (Berlin doughnuts) are eaten for good luck. After midnight, the city’s infamous clubs, like Berghain, keep the party going until dawn.
3. Venice, Italy
Piazza San Marco in Venice transforms into a festive wonderland on NYE. Couples share a kiss at midnight as fireworks illuminate the Venetian lagoon. Celebrating with a masquerade ball and indulging in traditional Italian feasts featuring lentils for good fortune are top ways to spend your night in this city.
4. Hong Kong, China
Hong Kong’s Victoria Harbour lights up during NYE with a symphony of fireworks and laser displays. Taking in the festivities from a harbor cruise, rooftop bar, or Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade are popular choices for celebrating. For dinner, try traditional Cantonese dishes at local eateries.
5. London, England
London’s NYE fireworks light up the skies over the Thames, with Big Ben, the London Eye, and Tower Bridge as stunning backdrops. Secure tickets for the official fireworks zones or enjoy views from nearby pubs or river cruises. Join the lively street parties or head to Southbank for a festive atmosphere.
6. New York City, USA
The Times Square Ball Drop is iconic. Thousands gather to watch the glittering crystal ball descend while confetti rains down at midnight. Explore VIP parties at rooftop bars for the best views, or opt for a boat ride on the Hudson to catch the city’s skyline ablaze with fireworks.
7. Edinburgh, Scotland
Hogmanay is Edinburgh’s three-day NYE festival, which includes a torchlight procession, street parties, and a spectacular fireworks show above Edinburgh Castle. The celebration continues on New Year’s Day with the Loony Dook, where brave souls plunge into the icy River Forth.
8. Dubai, UAE
Living up to its lavish reputation, Dubai welcomes the new year with grandeur. The main attraction in the city is the record-breaking light and firework display at the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. Alternatively, enjoy fireworks at Palm Jumeirah or Atlantis. Book a luxury dinner cruise along Dubai Creek for an upscale celebration.
9. Paris, France
Paris shines on NYE with fireworks and light displays at iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Champs-Élysées. River cruises on the Seine provide a romantic way to welcome the new year, complete with gourmet dinners and champagne.
10. Bangkok, Thailand
Bangkok’s CentralWorld Plaza throws a vibrant countdown party with live performances, a massive LED screen, and stunning fireworks. Rooftop bars in the city, like Sky Bar, offer panoramic views of the city’s celebrations. Take part in riverfront festivities along the Chao Phraya.
11. Sydney, Australia
Sydney’s NYE fireworks over the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House are world-famous. The vibrant 12-minute display is synchronized with music and can be enjoyed from harbor cruises, rooftop bars, or prime spots like Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair. Arrive early to secure a spot, and don’t miss the family-friendly early fireworks at 9 pm.
12. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Celebrate New Year’s Eve on Copacabana Beach, where millions gather dressed in white to bring good luck for the year ahead. The night includes samba music, dance performances, and a dazzling fireworks display over the Atlantic Ocean. Bring flowers to toss into the sea as an offering to Yemanjá, the goddess of the sea.
13. Las Vegas, USA
The Strip closes to traffic on NYE for a massive street party with live performances and synchronized fireworks from hotel rooftops. Vegas also offers world-class nightclub events, celebrity DJs, and extravagant dining experiences that rival the best NYE events year-round.
14. Cape Town, South Africa
The V&A Waterfront hosts Cape Town’s largest NYE party, featuring live music, dancing, and fireworks over Table Mountain. Those seeking something more laid-back should head to Clifton Beach for a bonfire celebration. Celebrating the new year doesn’t end on January 1st in Cape Town, either. On January 2nd, the city hosts the Kaapse Klopse, or Cape Town Minstrel Carnival.
15. Reykjavik, Iceland
Icelanders know how to party, with fireworks lighting up Reykjavik from every direction. The community gathers at massive bonfires to bid farewell to the old year. After midnight, hit the bars and clubs or head out for a chance to spot the Northern Lights.
These festivals are unlike any other
Unique celebrations happen around the world throughout the entire year, allowing visitors to totally immerse themselves in fascinating cultures and traditions, like participating in a giant food fight in Spain or witnessing nomadic tribes race camels in Tunisia.
16 Unique Cultural Festivals That Could Never Exist in the US
Can’t figure out what to wear on NYE?
Thanks to the magic of online shopping, there are tons of flattering, inexpensive NYE dresses that can get to you quickly.
Elise Armitage is an entrepreneur and founder of What The Fab, a travel + lifestyle blog based in California. At the beginning of 2019, Elise left her corporate job at Google to chase her dreams: being an entrepreneur and helping women find fabulous in the everyday. Since then, she’s launched her SEO course Six-Figure SEO, where she teaches bloggers how to create a passive revenue stream from their website using SEO. Featured in publications like Forbes, Elle, HerMoney, and Real Simple, Elise is a firm believer that you can be of both substance and style.
