The Top Five New Year's Eve Parties on the Planet

The Top Five New Year’s Eve Parties on the Planet

 New Year’s Eve is our last chance to enjoy the excesses of the season before the sobering onset of January, but over-priced events tickets, a lack of public transport and horrible weather often result in big disappointment.  With more Brits staying in and missing out on the biggest party night of the year, perhaps it’s time we set our sights further afield, making the fun last that bit longer with a new year break in a place that really knows how to celebrate in style.  Here’s Auto Europe’s recommendation for the best venues to raise a glass on December 31st:

Edinburgh

Scotland is famous for the Hogmanay party, celebrated on New Year’s Eve with varying degrees of tradition.  In Edinburgh it has become a huge ticketed street party, organised to accommodate hundreds of thousands of people.  Celebrations start on Thursday 29th December with a torchlight procession in the early evening.  Various different events run up to the New Year crescendo, when a number of stages are erected to host performances from top music acts.  The party kicks off at 10pm and at midnight the Seven Hills firework display lights up Edinburgh castle.  The atmosphere is electric, and the event is in full swing well into the early hours.   Walk off the following day’s hangover in the Prince’s Street Gardens or take a stroll along the Union Canal.   

Sydney

 Australia’s Sydney Harbour is home to some of the most breathtaking New Year’s Eve celebrations.  The pleasant night-time temperature and two spectacular fireworks displays (one set-off at 9pm for young families) draw hoards of partygoers.  Make sure you get an unspoilt view by booking a place aboard one of the vessels taking part in the Harbour of Light parade, or head to one of the recommended vantage points (some of these have entrance fees, so check in advance).  There are also a number of hotels from which you can view the fireworks, or if the budget stretches far enough, book a luxury dinner cruise. Find everything you need to know about this party, and other events taking place in the area.

New York

 New York City is possibly the most iconic New Year’s Eve venue on the planet.  As midnight approaches on December 31st, all eyes turn to Times Square, where a free event has been held each year since 1906.  As the clock strikes twelve, the New Year’s Eve ball descends from a flagpole atop One Times Square, to the sound of a million cheers.  The festivities are watched by over a billion people worldwide.  If you want to soak up the party spirit in person, get there early and be well prepared.  Temperatures are low, and with such a high volume of visitors the event is carefully managed, so you will have to stay in barricaded areas for the duration of the evening – or risk losing your place. 

Madeira

 It’s a little-known fact that Madeira is a great destination for a Christmas break.  The weather is mild and the capital city Funchal is turned into one big nativity scene.  Each year the city organises a varied programme of cultural and artistic events.  On the 31st December it’s impossible to avoid the celebrations, with spectacular fireworks displays and parties taking place in hotels, restaurants, bars and on the streets.  A safe, friendly atmosphere makes this an ideal New Year’s Eve destination for families.