Where to Ring in the New Year Around the World

Group of friends toasting with champagne at a New Year’s Eve party — Adobe Stock

As December approaches, travelers everywhere begin planning how and where they’ll welcome the new year.

From glittering metropolises to historic squares and beaches that pulse with music until dawn, New Year’s Eve celebrations around the world offer unforgettable experiences year after year.

The best time to book flights, accommodations, and event tickets is usually early fall. Popular destinations fill up quickly, and prices rise as the holidays approach.

Early planning means better availability, better prices, and a more relaxed start to the festivities.

Sydney, Australia – First to Celebrate

Sydney Harbour Bridge New Years Eve fireworks, colourful NYE fire works lighting the night skies with vivid multi colours NSW Australia. — Adobe Stock

Sydney is one of the first major cities to welcome the new year, and its fireworks are world-famous. The Sydney Harbour fireworks show, launched from the Harbour Bridge and barges, attracts more than a million spectators each year.

Travel Tip: Hotels with harbor views often book out months in advance, so plan early if you want a front-row seat.
Event Note: Sydney typically features an early light show around 9 p.m. followed by the main fireworks at midnight. Many waterfront viewing areas require tickets or early arrival.

Edinburgh, Scotland – Hogmanay Festival

New Year´s Eve in Edinburgh- Sylvester in Scotland — Photo by Puravidaniel on Adobe Stock

Scotland’s legendary Hogmanay celebrations take place from December 29 through January 1 and turn Edinburgh into a festival city. The midnight fireworks above Edinburgh Castle are the highlight, but the real magic is in the torchlight processions, ceilidhs (traditional dances), and the communal singing of “Auld Lang Syne.”

Travel Tip: Book accommodations and event tickets early, as this is one of Europe’s most popular winter festivals.
Event Note: Tickets for the Street Party and Concert in the Gardens typically go on sale in the fall. Weather can affect outdoor events, so check forecasts before traveling.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – Copacabana Réveillon

New years eve party, reveillon na praia de Copacabana. Rio de Janeiro — Adobe Stock

Rio’s New Year’s Eve celebration is one of the largest beach parties in the world. Millions of people dressed in white gather on Copacabana Beach for live samba, spiritual offerings to Yemanjá (the sea goddess), and a spectacular fireworks show over the Atlantic.

Travel Tip: Arrive early or book a beachfront hotel to secure a good view of the fireworks.
Event Note: The main stage is set up on the beach with live music leading up to midnight.

New York City, USA – Times Square Ball Drop

Confetti fill's the air in Times Square during the New Years Eve celebration in NYC. — Wikimedia

The Times Square Ball Drop has been a global icon for more than a century. Crowds gather to watch the Waterford Crystal ball descend as confetti rains over the crowd and the countdown begins.

Travel Tip: Arrive very early, dress warmly, and be prepared to stay in place for many hours.
Event Note: Access to Times Square is heavily controlled, and security checks are required.