The arrival of a new year is a time for celebration, reflection, and unforgettable revelry. Across the globe, iconic cities pull out all of the stops for the holiday, hosting extraordinary events that usher in the season with unmatched grandeur. Each extravagant affair, from the electrifying ball drop in New York City’s Time Square to record-breaking fireworks lighting up Dubai’s skyline, set the tone for a spectacular new year ahead. The following are the top five best places to celebrate New Year’s Eve around the world.
New York City, USA
Few New Year’s Eve celebrations rival the energy of New York City’s Times Square. Each year, millions gather to watch the world-famous crystal ball drop at midnight, a tradition dating back to 1907. This season’s edition will be hosted by broadcasters like Ryan Seacrest, Andy Cohen, Anderson Cooper, and more, as New Yorkers and visitors gather in midtown Manhattan— or the TV, as the grand event is live-streamed across the globe. Rockin’ Times Square will be live performances from top artists, including Megan Thee Stallion, Jelly Roll, Sabrina Carpenter, and Tyla. The sea of revelers, bundled up against the city’s winter chill, eagerly await the ball’s descent at 11:59 p.m. before they are showered in confetti, enveloped by fireworks, and stealing New Year’s kisses with loved ones.
Paris, France
Radiating unmatched romance, Paris is undeniably one of the most enchanting destinations to welcome the new year. Parisians and visitors gather to share a magical New Year’s kiss beneath the iconic Eiffel Tower as dazzling fireworks light up the night sky around them. Though this iconic French site is one of the most popular areas to ring in the new chapter, the best vantage point to catch the largest firework display in Paris is the Champs-Élysées, where a spirited communal countdown unfolds. Here, the celebration crescendos with 3,386 vibrant fireworks illuminating the city, accompanied by captivating performances from French artists Juliette Armanet and Clara Luciani. To crown the experience, breathtaking light projections dance across the Arc de Triomphe, making Paris an unforgettable New Year’s Eve stage.
London, England
Illuminating London’s skyline since 1999, ring in the new year in London, England. This dazzling celebration is launched into action at midnight when Big Ben rings out chimes to commence the festivities. When the iconic clock strikes, fireworks launch into the sky, illuminating nearby landmarks like the Houses of Parliament and Thames River. Down below, party-goers welcome the new chapter with clinking Champagne glasses on river cruises, rooftop bars, and the streets of Westminster. New Year’s Day continues the celebration with London’s historic parade, featuring floats, the Queen’s horses, and musicians from across the globe, from artists like Connie Talbot, Chesney Hawkes, Boyzlife, and more.
Sydney, Australia
Sydney is one of the first major cities in the world to welcome the new year, and it does so with unmatched grandeur. The evening begins on Sydney Harbour with a Smoking Ceremony, a ritual of purification and unity aboard the iconic vessels Tribal Warrior, Mari Nawi, and Wirawi, followed by a heartfelt Welcome to Country ceremony greeting visitors to Gadigal by Gadigal Elders. As the night unfolds, the Harbour Bridge dazzles with projections and lighting effects, leading to the Calling Country fireworks—a stunning celebration of sky, land, and sea by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists. Illuminated boats grace the water in the Sydney Harbour Lights parade, all building to the grand finale at midnight: a world-famous fireworks display set to an unforgettable soundtrack by composer Luna Pan, lighting up the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and skyline.
Dubai, UAE
Crowned as the world’s most Instagrammable New Year’s Eve destination according to a study by travel specialists at Travelbag, Dubai’s New Year’s Eve is an extravagant affair featuring record-breaking fireworks displays. Though the entire city is filled with over-the-top parties, the main event takes place at the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, as it becomes a spectacle of light and color during a jaw-dropping pyrotechnic show. Nearby, the Dubai Fountain dances to synchronized music, adding to the drama. Lavish rooftop celebrations, five-star hotel galas, and desert parties under the stars offer unique ways to celebrate, some featuring live performances from Lionel Richie and Andrea Bocelli.