New Year Celebrations Around the World: Where to Be on December 31st
New Year’s Eve is one of the biggest global celebrations, with cities across the world welcoming the new year in spectacular ways. Whether you prefer fireworks over iconic skylines, all-night beach parties, cultural traditions, or intimate gatherings, there’s a perfect destination for everyone.
If you’re planning to ring in New Year’s Eve 2025 in an unforgettable way, here are some of the best places in the world to celebrate December 31st.
1. Sydney, Australia – The First Major Fireworks Show
Where: Sydney Harbour
Why: One of the first global cities to welcome the new year
Why You Should Go
Sydney’s New Year’s Eve fireworks over the Harbour Bridge and Opera House are among the most spectacular in the world. With millions of people gathered along the waterfront, it’s an unforgettable way to start the year.
What to Expect:
A breathtaking fireworks display over the harbor
Harbor cruises & rooftop parties with the best views
Family-friendly events & beach celebrations
Insider Tip: Book a spot at Mrs Macquarie’s Point for the best free view of the fireworks.
2. New York City, USA – The Iconic Times Square Ball Drop
Where: Times Square, New York City
Why: One of the most famous New Year’s Eve events
Why You Should Go
The Times Square Ball Drop is an iconic tradition, attracting visitors from around the world. As the countdown begins, the atmosphere becomes electric with live performances and confetti showers.
What to Expect:
The world-famous crystal ball drop at midnight
Live music & performances from global artists
Confetti, lights, and a buzzing crowd energy
Insider Tip: Arrive early in the afternoon to secure a good spot. For a VIP experience, book a hotel with a Times Square view.
3. Dubai, UAE – The World’s Tallest Fireworks Show
Where: Burj Khalifa & Palm Jumeirah
Why: Record-breaking fireworks and luxury celebrations
Why You Should Go
Dubai’s New Year’s Eve celebrations are grand and luxurious, with record-breaking fireworks displays at the Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, and Atlantis The Palm.
What to Expect:
The world’s tallest fireworks show at Burj Khalifa
Luxury gala dinners & yacht parties
Live concerts & entertainment in Downtown Dubai
Insider Tip: Book a rooftop restaurant in advance for the best views without the massive crowds.
With all that fear, it’s much easier to stay at home in our comfort
zones than to break out and travel.
4. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – Beach Party at Copacabana
Where: Copacabana Beach
Why: One of the biggest beach parties in the world
Why You Should Go
In Rio, New Year’s Eve (Réveillon) is all about music, dancing, and fireworks on the beach. Millions of people dressed in white (for good luck) gather at Copacabana Beach for an unforgettable night.
What to Expect:
Massive fireworks show over the ocean
Live samba & international DJs
People making ocean offerings to Yemanjá (Goddess of the Sea)
Insider Tip: Wear white for good luck and bring flowers to throw into the ocean, as part of the local tradition.
5. Edinburgh, Scotland – The Legendary Hogmanay Festival
Where: Edinburgh City Center
Why: One of the world’s biggest street parties
Why You Should Go
Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Festival is a three-day celebration featuring torchlight processions, ceilidh dancing, and fireworks over Edinburgh Castle.
What to Expect:
A massive street party with live bands
Torchlight procession through the city
The tradition of singing ‘Auld Lang Syne’ at midnight
Insider Tip: Join the Loony Dook on New Year’s Day— a crazy tradition where people take a dip in the freezing River Forth!
6. Bangkok, Thailand – Asia’s Party Capital
Where: CentralWorld & Chao Phraya River
Why: A mix of nightlife, fireworks, and cultural celebrations
Why You Should Go
Bangkok is one of the best places in Asia to celebrate New Year’s Eve, offering wild parties, grand fireworks, and Buddhist temple ceremonies.
What to Expect:
Fireworks at CentralWorld & ICONSIAM
Rooftop parties with stunning skyline views
New Year’s prayers at local temples
Insider Tip: Head to Khao San Road for a backpacker-style party or Asiatique for a family-friendly celebration.
Learn more in related article: Staying with a local family on Bali
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7. Paris, France – Romantic New Year by the Eiffel Tower
Where: Champs-Élysées & Eiffel Tower
Why: A magical and romantic way to welcome the new year
Why You Should Go
Paris, the City of Lights, offers a romantic and elegant New Year’s Eve celebration with light shows on the Eiffel Tower and festive gatherings along the Champs-Élysées.
What to Expect:
Fireworks & light displays at the Eiffel Tower
Midnight countdown on the Champs-Élysées
Moulin Rouge & Seine River dinner cruises
Insider Tip: Avoid the crowds by booking a dinner cruise on the Seine for a magical experience.
8. Tokyo, Japan – Temple Bells & Modern Countdown
Where: Shibuya Crossing & Meiji Shrine
Why: A mix of futuristic countdowns & ancient traditions
Why You Should Go
Tokyo blends modern celebrations with deep-rooted traditions, where people can party in Shibuya or visit temples for a peaceful start to the year.
What to Expect:
High-energy countdown at Shibuya Crossing
Temple bell-ringing ceremonies at Meiji Shrine
Fireworks at Tokyo Bay & Disneyland
Insider Tip: Experience hatsuhinode (Japan’s first sunrise of the year) from Mt. Fuji or Tokyo Tower.
Final Thoughts
From fireworks over iconic landmarks to street parties and cultural traditions, New Year’s Eve is celebrated in unique ways across the world. Whether you want an all-night party in Rio, a magical night in Paris, or a spiritual start in Tokyo, there’s a perfect place for you to welcome 2025.
Where would you love to celebrate New Year’s Eve? Let us know in the comments!
