New year, new decade! And what better way to ring in the next decade than a massive celebration somewhere exciting? From New York City to Sydney, Rio de Janeiro to Paris, here are 7 can’t-miss celebrations happening across the globe to ring in the new year the right way.
New York City
Not that we needed to give you another reason to visit the Big Apple, but just in case you need it, here’s one to add to your list. Since 1907, millions of partygoers watch the famous glittering ball drop over Times Square. But that’s not all – you’ll be entertained with plenty of musical acts and artists keeping the spirit alive as everyone awaits the next decade. If crowds (and standing in the cold) aren’t your thing, why not spend NYE in NYC on a rooftop? Catch the view from the Knickerbocker Hotel, or the Times Square Edition—some rooftops may even have views of the fireworks!
Rio de Janeiro
Known as the world’s largest and wildest New Year’s celebration, Reveillon is a cultural celebration on Copacabana Beach with millions of locals wearing white attire across 2.5 miles of sand. You’ll partake in a Brazilian celebration infused with African rituals, local culture and superstitious beliefs. The evening is also filled with fireworks, live music and raft offerings to Lemanjá, the goddess of the sea.
Orlando
Think Orlando’s new year is ordinary? Think again. At Disney’s Magical Kingdom, they go all out with a Jingle Jungle Parade, full of famous Disney characters, decorations and music. If lights are more your thing, you’ll love Epcot’s IllumiNations: Reflection of Earth show, put on just before the clock strikes 12!
London
What’s not to love when you’re in London town? Take the London Eye ferris wheel for a spin, or better yet, catch the midnight fireworks show over the Thames River, or head to one of the cities many after-parties. But the fun won’t stop there. To ring in the first day of the new year, locals gather at the New Year’s Day parade which starts in Westminster and finishes at Green Park.
Sydney
If you’d like the be among the first in the world to ring in the new year, Sydney is the spot for you! Home to the world’s second largest New Year’s celebration, Sydney hosts the world’s largest fireworks display, featuring 6 barges shooting sparks along a 3.5 mile stretch of water and the Harbour Light Parade, which includes over 50 illuminated vessels. Millions of people gather to catch the shows with fireworks bursting over the famed Sydney Opera House. This year, you can also expect pyrotechnics on the Sydney Harbour Bridge!
Paris
If anyone gets New Year’s right, it’s the Parisians. Celebrate the coming year in style in the City of Light: steal un bisou beneath the Eiffel Tower as it sparkles in the moonlight, or head to Champs-Elysees, where all the action happens. Locals flee to bars and restaurants for a night of eating, drinking and dancing the night away—champagne in hand. For a more relaxed evening, head to the area of Montmartre for an apartment soiree, or the red-light district of Pigalle for some delicious Italian food at Pink Mamma and a racy cabaret show at Moulin Rouge. Bonne Année!
Dubai
If over-the-top is what you’re looking for, an NYE celebration in Dubai is just what you need. As another one of the world’s largest fireworks displays, with almost 450,000 sparks, the show can be seen from just about anywhere. The best view, however, is from the world’s tallest skyscraper, the Burj Khalifa, where parties carry on through the night on the 122nd floor. If you’d rather catch the action on the ground, grab a seat by the Dubai Fountain to admire the 62-mile stretch of sea, with Dubai’s skyscrapers set amongst the bright works of art.
Happy New Year!
Linnea
