A Worldwide Guide To Celebrating New Year's Eve
New Year's Eve is a night that some dismiss as unnecessary and overrated, but finding the perfect place to ring in a new year can transform it into an unforgettable experience.
Whether you are looking for a glamourous event or unique cultural event, here is a roundup of the top experiences, weird - and wonderful - traditions, and destinations around the world to enjoy welcoming in 2025:
London, UK
New Year's Eve in London may not boast quirky traditions, but it more than makes up for it with its wholesome charm and breathtaking visuals. Those that are in the UK in the festive period, flock to the banks of the Thames and crowd the city's iconic bridges, giving a stunning view of the capital's skyline.
As the clock strikes midnight at Big Ben, the air is filled with the magic of fireworks lighting up the London Eye. It's simple yet spectacular.
Cape Town, South Africa
If you're unsure how to spend your final evening of 2024, look no further than South Africa's vibrant "Mother City." The beaches offer a serene escape for a laid-back start to the New Year, but for a full-throttle celebration, head to the V&A Waterfront.
This lively hub comes alive with carnival-themed performances, food trucks, and live music at every turn. It's the perfect spot to eat, drink, and dance your way into 2025.
Sydney, Australia
Sydney holds a unique advantage over other major New Year's Eve celebrations: nestled in the easterly time zone, it's among the first to ring in the new year. Over a million people gather on boats or along the shore, eagerly awaiting the stunning light displays over the Harbour Bridge and Opera House.
And with the festivities falling during the height of the Australian summer, the weather is far warmer than most northern hemisphere celebrations.
Naples, Italy
Though the practice is fading, some residents of Italy's third-largest city still throw household items - typically pots, pans, and pillows - out of their windows on New Year's Eve.
Ducking your head, and if you're looking to experience Naples at its finest, head to the city's hills for a breathtaking view of the spectacular fireworks display.
Edinburgh, Scotland
While "Auld Lang Syne" may ring out worldwide, no New Year's celebration compares to Scotland's.
Edinburgh's legendary Hogmanay is the epitome of festive spirit, where the city's dancing, revelry, fireworks, and festivities can stretch on for an entire three-day celebration. It's an experience that captures the true essence of the season.
Mexico
Whether you're enjoying the sun-kissed beaches of Cancun and Playa del Carmen or immersing yourself in the vibrant street festivities of Guadalajara and Mexico City, embracing Mexico's unique New Year's Eve tradition of colorful underwear is a must!
New York, USA
It may be predictable, but few cities can rival New York's sheer energy on New Year's Eve. Whether you're witnessing the iconic ball drop in Times Square or catching fireworks over Central Park, South Street Seaport, and Prospect Park, the city offers a celebration at every turn. In New York, the countdown is nothing short of an event on every corner.
Tokyo, Japan
Japan offers a wealth of customs to make bringing in the New Year an unforgettable experience. Whether you're joining the countdown at Tokyo Tower, savoring a bowl of toshikoshi soba (traditional New Year's Eve noodles), or listening to the 108 temple bells toll as midnight approaches, there's no shortage of ways to immerse yourself in this culturally rich celebration.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Here's no mistaking the allure New Year at Rio's legendary Copacabana beach party, but the experience becomes even more magical when you embrace the local traditions.
Dress in all white and, as midnight strikes, jump over seven waves - an enchanting ritual believed to bring good fortune. Picture yourself barefoot on the iconic sandy beach, wading through warm waters as fireworks light up the sky above. It's a truly unforgettable way to begin the year.
Boise, USA
As the potato capital of America Idaho has a New Year's Eve tradition that's truly one of a kind: the 'Idaho Potato Drop.' At midnight, as fireworks light up the sky, a massive polystyrene potato descends in front of the state capitol.
With live music, snowboarders performing tricks, and an array of food vendors, it's an experience you won't find anywhere else. For the ultimate spud-themed adventure, book a stay at the Big Idaho Potato Hotel, which is a giant potato!
Quito, Ecuador
Ecuador embraces the tradition of "burning away the past" to welcome in the New Year, with scarecrow-like dolls stuffed with paper set ablaze at midnight.
This ritual, meant to banish the demons and misfortunes of the previous year, transforms Quito into a fiery spectacle. These symbolic bonfires and dazzling fireworks displays make the capital a pyromaniac's dream come New Year's Eve.
Copenhagen, Denmark
If you feel the need to release some anger at the end of 2024, head to Denmark, where a quirky New Year's tradition involves throwing plates and crockery at your neighbors' doors.
The more dishes you shatter, the better luck you'll have in the year ahead. With its stunning waterfront fireworks, Copenhagen also provides a picturesque (albeit chilly) setting to enjoy celebrating the New Year.
