The Best Places to Ring in The New Year

New Year’s Eve comes with a lot of hype and – let’s face it – sometimes, doesn’t live up to our high expectations. So this year, why not go somewhere that you’re guaranteed to have an awesome time? (Or, start planning ahead for next year!) Whether you’re looking for a big adventure abroad or something a little closer to home, we’ve got you covered. These are the best places to ring in the new year!

Image via Remko De Waal

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Not only is Amsterdam one of the most gorgeous cities in the world, it hosts one of the most incredible New Year’s parties ever! The canal lined streets are completely shut down so you can walk from one end of the city to the other checking out all the bars and fireworks shows in between. Also, feel free to pop some bubbly while you explore!

Austin, TX

If you’re looking for a down-home good time, Austin is your NYE destination. The famous 6th street is completely shut down to cars and all the bars serve up cheap drinks. Bar hop the night away under twinkling Christmas lights. And don’t miss the fireworks show over the lake!

Image via Andrew Jorgensen

Lake Tahoe, CA

Nothing says New Year’s Eve like being bundled up in a cozy cabin with snow falling all around you! Every year, the Snowglobe music festival hits Lake Tahoe for an awesome party to kick off the new year. This year, The Chainsmokers, Flume, Major Lazer and Odesza are headlining the winter wonderland show in the forest surrounded by snow…perfection!

Punta Del Este, Uruguay

This small beachfront town in Uruguay is anything but rustic. Each December, hundreds of tourists from all over South America descend on the city to open up their ocean view condos for the Summer (opposite seasons down there). The epitome of luxury, Punta Del Este has it all…including an amazing all night party on the sand! Lastly, don’t forget to wear all white or you’ll stick out like a sore thumb!

Image via Trippas White Group

Sydney, Australia

Want to be the first in the world to ring in the new year? Then head to the first major city to hit midnight first…Sydney! Over 1 million people head to the harbor for two massive fireworks shows, an illuminated boat parade, acrobatics and more! Plus, you can’t beat the amazing backdrop of the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge. It’s truly a sight to see!

Photo via Sin City VIP

Las Vegas, NV

You would expect nothing less than the ultimate New Year’s party from the party capital of America, Las Vegas. Not only will every club have amazing parties all day and night, but the entire strip shuts down for massive concerts and of course, fireworks!

Reykjavik, Iceland

There are only 4 hours of daylight in Iceland in December so the party gets started early! The day starts out with communal bonfires around the city to symbolize burning away the troubles of the last year. Then, at midnight, head to Perlan and the Landakotskirkja church for incredible fireworks shows. And don’t worry about staying out all night, a trip to the hot springs will cure all.

Image via All Luxury Miami

Miami, FL

In terms of culture, food and celebrations, it doesn’t get much better than Miami. In the city that truly never sleeps, the party never ends! And leave your coat at home, because NYE in Florida is about 75 degrees. Don’t miss South Beach’s epic party complete with live music and tons of fireworks or head to a private rooftop party at one of the amazing beachfront hotels for a truly VIP experience. It will definitely be a New Year’s to remember!

Vienna, Austria

For the royal treatment, head to Vienna for their annual New Year’s Eve Ball in a PALACE. Yes, you read that correctly. Waltz the night away in the city that invented the waltz and feel like a full on princess. Or for something a little more low-key, head to the Christmas markets that turn into New Year’s Eve markets filled with delicious food and mulled wine. On New Year’s Day, check out City Hall to hear a special concert by the Vienna Philharmonic.

Image via Fashion Weekly

New York, NY

Ah yes, the mecca of all New Year’s parties…New York City! Everyone should experience the ball drop in person at least once in their life. A true bucket list experience! Plus, the entire city is still decked out for Christmas so head to Rockefeller Center or Bryant Park to keep the holiday cheer alive!

 

Where are you traveling for New Year’s Eve? Tell us in the comments!