New Year’s Eve: your ultimate guide to celebrating around the world

Why New Year’s Eve means so much

New Year’s Eve is more than just another holiday.

It’s an event full of hope, tradition, history, and excitement: where everyone, everywhere, counts down together.

No matter how you like to celebrate, it’s a chance to reflect on the year behind and get ready for the one ahead.

Top ways to celebrate New Year’s Eve (wherever you are)

Ready for inspiration?

Here are some of the best ways to welcome the new year: whether you want to party, relax, travel, or just enjoy simple moments at home.

• Go to a concert or festival: Experience live music and big energy with friends.

• Escape to a cottage in nature: Gather your group, explore outdoors, and enjoy some peaceful moments.

• Book a cosy restaurant: Enjoy a festive meal or a quiet dinner with loved ones.

• Ski into the new year: Head to the slopes for snow, fun, and après-ski celebrations.

• Host a board game night: Play classics or try something new, with ideas for every group.

• Relax at a spa or wellness centre: Unwind and reset after a busy year.

• Celebrate at home with family: Movie marathons, fun snacks, and quality time together.

• Visit a must-go city: See iconic fireworks, unique local traditions, and unforgettable events.

• Enjoy the local festivities in your own town: Head to the city centre, sip hot chocolate, watch dazzling lights or fireworks, and join the midnight countdown with neighbours and friends.

We’ll cover each option in detail, plus give you tips, examples, and ideas to make this year’s celebration your best yet.

Go to a concert or festival

We’ll start with our biggest passion: live music and legendary events.

Love a big night out? New Year’s Eve is your chance to catch some of the world’s most unforgettable parties, concerts, and one-of-a-kind festivals. As music experts, we’ve handpicked the must-go-to events happening this year: whether you’re in the mood for a wild dance floor or a classic night out with family.

If you want to dance all night with friends, here are some epic options:

• Dublin, Ireland – NYF Countdown Concert at Dublin Castle: Dublin’s citywide New Year’s Festival includes ticketed concerts in spots like Dublin Castle and live bands throughout the evening, followed by fireworks at Howth and Dun Laoghaire Harbours: a great blend of music and celebration.

• Amsterdam, Netherlands – Awakenings NYE at Halfweg: If techno’s your thing, this is one of Europe’s most iconic New Year’s Eve raves. Expect next-level sound, wild visuals, and a buzzing crowd.

• Glasgow, UK – Hogmanay Concert in the Gardens: Picture live music, fireworks over the castle, and big festival energy. It’s a bucket-list New Year’s celebration, headlined this year by Wet Leg and other top acts.

Prefer a cultural or family-friendly experience?

• Berlin, Germany – Silvesterkonzert at the Berliner Philharmoniker: Ring in the new year with this iconic classical concert, perfect for families or friends who want a special event of music together.

• Vienna, Austria – Vienna Philharmonic New Year’s Eve Concert: Enjoy a magical New Year’s Eve at Vienna’s world-famous classical concert, performed by the Vienna Philharmonic in the stunning Musikverein.

• Osaka, Japan – Universal Cool Japan at Universal Studios Japan: Spend December 31 at this world-famous theme park, packed with special attractions and live shows for all ages. It’s not a traditional New Year’s event, but it’s a fun and memorable way for families to celebrate together.

Want a city party with live music and local flavour? Try:

• Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – Réveillon Jardim Encantado: Looking for an excited New Year’s Eve in Rio? This vibrant event is a true dance party, featuring live music, fireworks, dancing, and an incredible local crowd, perfect if you want a real taste of Brazilian celebration and that magical “Réveillon” atmosphere.

• London, UK – Defected NYE at O2 Academy Brixton: Celebrate with one of the world’s most iconic house music labels at O2 Academy Brixton. Expect huge DJ sets, a massive crowd, and all-night dancing, perfect if you want classic London energy and unforgettable music.

• Esher, UK - LOST New Year's Eve: If you’re up for a short trip from London, LOST NYE at Esher Rugby Club is one of the region’s most in-demand parties. Enjoy sets from Max Dean, Luke Dean, Gaskin, and more, perfect for those who want a big night with a festival feel.

If you’d like even more concert or festival inspiration, check out our guides: 4 of the best New Year’s eve parties in London 2025-2026, 5 of the best NYE parties in Brussels 2025–2026 and 5 of the top NYE parties in Amsterdam 2025–2026.

Wherever you want to start the year, you’ll find amazing live music, dancing, and celebration.

Pro tip: Check TicketSwap for available tickets to these events, or similar parties in your city.

Escape to a cottage in nature

Sometimes, the best New Year’s Eve memories happen away from the city lights. If you want peace, fresh air, and meaningful moments, escaping to a cottage with friends or family could be your perfect plan.

Picture this: a cosy cabin in the Swiss Alps, a lakeside chalet in Canada, or a quiet retreat in the forests of Scandinavia. Spend the last day of the year exploring snowy trails, sledding, or simply enjoying the views together. When the sun goes down, get creative indoors: set up a group games marathon, make a big meal, or whip up hot chocolate for everyone.

As midnight approaches, gather around the fireplace (or even outside under the stars) to share stories, dreams for the upcoming year, or a playlist of your favourite songs. You might even catch a small local fireworks display from your porch: just don’t forget the party props.

It’s a family-friendly, relaxed way to mark the occasion of New Year’s Eve, perfect for those who prefer peaceful moments to busy parties and loud celebrations.

Book a cosy restaurant

Not everyone wants a wild night out. For many of us, New Year’s Eve is about delicious food and quality time.

Book a table at a local restaurant: whether you’re after an intimate dinner with loved ones or a lively atmosphere with friends, it’s a simple way to make the evening feel special. Many restaurants offer New Year’s Eve menus or even live music, so you can celebrate in style without the hassle of planning a big gathering at home.

Looking for something unique? Try a themed dinner, a chef's menu, or a spot with a view of the city’s fireworks. If you want something extra special, some of the world’s best restaurants pull out all the stops for New Year’s Eve. From rooftop dinners in London and Paris to waterside tables in Sydney or Dubai, you’ll find unique menus, live entertainment, and spectacular views.

Whether you’re after city lights, must-see attractions, or just a cosy spot with your favourite people, sharing a year’s eve meal at a remarkable restaurant makes for a memorable gathering out during the holiday season. If you prefer to keep things extra cosy, order your favourite food to go and create a relaxed feast at home.

It’s all about enjoying great company, good food, and a special evening, no matter where you are.

Hit the slopes for a New Year’s ski getaway

If you love fresh air, mountain views, and a little adventure, why not spend New Year’s Eve on the slopes? A ski trip offers something for everyone: from exciting après-ski evenings to fireworks over the snow.

Best for families

• Zell am See, Austria This charming lakeside resort in Austria is perfect for families. It’s known for friendly ski schools, gentle slopes, and a magical New Year’s Eve atmosphere, complete with fireworks reflected on the lake. There are family friendly events in town and activities for all ages.

Best for friends (and budget-friendly)

• Bansko, Bulgaria If you want a fun and affordable ski trip with your crew, Bansko is hard to beat. Expect lively après-ski bars, great value accommodation, and NYE parties that go well past midnight. It’s a popular spot for groups looking to celebrate and save some money at the same time.

• Pas de la Casa, Andorra Another favourite for friends and budget-conscious travellers. Pas de la Casa is famous for its vibrant nightlife, affordable ski passes, and plenty of options for group adventures. Expect a fun, laid-back vibe and lots of ways to ring in the new year together.

No matter where you go, a New Year’s ski trip combines fresh mountain air, winter fun, and a chance to celebrate surrounded by stunning scenery. After a long holiday season, a relaxing evening or fireworks in the mountains could be your favourite way to celebrate New Year’s Eve.

Plan a night of board games and fun at home

Who says you have to go out to have an amazing New Year’s Eve? Sometimes, staying in with friends or the whole family is exactly what you need to end the year right.

Set up a group game marathon, think classics like Catan, Codenames, Ticket to Ride, or even an old-school round of Monopoly. For something with a twist, try party favourites like Coup, Black Stories, or social games like Mafia and Werewolf to challenge your friends and keep the laughs going.

Get everyone involved by picking games that work for all ages, and add some friendly competition with small prizes for the winners.

Don’t forget the snacks! Parents can get creative by planning games, making popcorn, and little surprises to keep everyone entertained until midnight. As the clock strikes midnight, tune in to a fireworks livestream or set up your own countdown.

If you want to make it extra memorable, ask everyone to share a favourite memory from the past year or make a wish for the future. It’s an activity everyone will enjoy, a fun way to welcome the new year: no fancy dress code required.

Did you know?

Many towns offer free exciting events for all ages, noon year’s eve parties for kids, or dazzling fireworks in the holiday season. Check local listings: sometimes the best celebrations are just around the corner!

Enjoy a movie or music documentary night

Looking for a chill and cosy way to celebrate? Create your own mini film festival at home with friends or family. Pick a theme: maybe the best movies of the year, classic comedies, or even music documentaries for something inspiring.

If you need some inspiration, check out our article on the best music documentaries, perfect for a New Year’s Eve movie night.

Set up snacks, popcorn, and a hot chocolate bar to keep everyone comfy. Pause for a midnight countdown, then keep the good vibes going with a late-night movie marathon or a playlist of your favourite tunes.

It’s a simple, family friendly event idea that lets you enjoy each other’s company: no dress code or tickets required.

And as the clock strikes midnight, don’t forget to watch the dazzling lights and celebrate the start of the new year.

Go for a spa night or wellness retreat

After a long holiday season, sometimes all you want is to relax and reset before the coming year.

Treat yourself (and your crew) to a spa evening, either at a local wellness centre or right at home. Book a treatment, take a dip in a hot tub, or unwind in a sauna. Some spas even offer special New Year’s Eve packages with live entertainment or midnight snacks.

If you’re staying in, set the mood with candles, soothing music, and face masks for everyone. Add a few self-care rituals, like: journaling, meditation, or writing out intentions for the upcoming year, to start January feeling refreshed.

For something extra special, you could even book a getaway at one of the world’s best spa resorts: think the Blue Lagoon in Iceland, Baden-Baden in Germany, or a wellness retreat in Bali. Whether you travel far or stay close to home, a spa evening is a relaxing way to celebrate New Year’s Eve and recharge for the year ahead.

This is the perfect year’s eve celebration idea if you want to step into the new year feeling calm, centred, and ready for whatever comes next.

Visit a must-go city for New Year’s Eve

If you’re craving a bigger adventure, why not ring in the new year in a city known for remarkable celebrations?

Some cities are legendary for their New Year’s Eve energy: think fireworks in Sydney, live music in Barcelona, or all-night parties in New York City.

Plan a trip and soak up the local traditions, from dazzling displays and countdowns in Times Square to riverside festivities along the Thames. Coastal destinations like Ocean City are also popular on New Year’s Eve, offering fireworks by the sea, live entertainment, perfect for kids and grown-ups alike.

Want to make the most of your adventure? Look up special offers on TicketSwap for concerts, club nights, or unique local events wherever you land.

Travel with friends, family, or solo: these cities are made for making one-of-a-kind year’s eve memories.

Celebrate in your own town

You don’t have to travel far to make New Year’s Eve special. Sometimes, the best celebrations are right in your own city or town.

Bundle up, head to your local square or city centre, and join in the community festivities: whether it’s watching the fireworks, wandering around a winter market, or simply sipping a hot chocolate while you enjoy the lights and music.

Many towns have their own traditions, live music, or family friendly events to welcome the new year together. It’s an easy, relaxed way to celebrate: no big plans needed, just good company and that feeling of excitement as the clock strikes midnight.

FAQ: New Year’s Eve

What to wear on New Year’s Eve for good luck?

Many people wear bright colours, sequins, or something new. In some cultures, red, gold, or white are considered lucky.

Why do we kiss on New Year’s Eve?

It’s a tradition believed to bring love and good luck for the coming year.

Where are the biggest New Year’s Eve celebrations?

Cities like New York, London, Rio de Janeiro, and Sydney are famous for their spectacular parties and fireworks.

What is Hogmanay?

It’s the Scottish name for New Year’s Eve, celebrated with special traditions and big gatherings, especially in Edinburgh and Glasgow.

How can I celebrate New Year’s Eve with kids?

Try an early countdown, group games, movie marathons, or family-friendly community events. Many parents plan special traditions like: making festive hats, sharing favourite memories, baking together, or organising a themed party, to keep New Year’s Eve fun and memorable for everyone.

What are some affordable ways to celebrate New Year’s Eve?

Host a board game evening at home, watch local fireworks, organise a potluck dinner, or bake treats together.

Is there a food that’s traditionally eaten on New Year’s Eve?

Yes! Many countries have New Year’s foods like grapes in Spain, lentils in Italy, or pork and sauerkraut in Germany for good luck.

What not to do during New Year’s Eve?

The common superstitions are: avoid arguments, leaving your house messy, or starting the new year with unpaid debts.

Is it true you should have money in your pocket at midnight?

Yes, in some cultures it’s believed that carrying money at midnight brings financial prosperity in the new year.

How can I make New Year’s Eve feel special at home?

Bake together, make hot chocolate, set up a movie marathon, decorate your space, and enjoy a cosy countdown with loved ones.

Wrapping up: Your New Year’s Eve, your way

No matter how you want to ring in the new year: whether it’s dancing at a world-class concert, unwinding in the mountains, playing tabletop games with friends, or soaking up the buzz of a new city, the most important thing is celebrating in a way that feels right for you.

From amazing music and festivals to cosy cottages, ski adventures, spa evenings, restaurant feasts, movie marathons, or exploring somewhere new, there’s a perfect New Year’s Eve out there for everyone.

Ready to make your plans? Check TicketSwap for special offers, last-minute tickets, and inspiration for concerts, festivals, and unique events happening near you this New Year’s Eve.

Here’s to a joyful celebration and an amazing year ahead, however you choose to celebrate!