New Year’s Eve is just around the corner, and excitement is in the air with fireworks, countdowns, and parties!
There are plenty of fun things to do on New Year’s Eve. Maybe a cozy night in with friends, or a thrilling midnight run through the city. Perhaps you’d like to attend a fancy gala? Don’t forget the classic traditions like toasting champagne, making resolutions, and shouting “Happy New Year!” at the top of your lungs.
Running out of ideas? Explore the full article for more exciting activities to do on New Year’s Eve!
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The Best Things to Do on New Year’s Eve for an Epic Celebration
Times Square Ball Drop in New York City
Every New Year’s Eve, there is a huge ball drop from a flagpole at midnight in Times Square, NYC. Since its beginning in 1907, over a million people have attended the event, which is filled with live shows and confetti falling, while everyone counts down to the new year. This really keeps people out having fun to celebrate.
Photo by Anthony Quintano is licensed under CC BY 2.0
Fireworks at Sydney Harbour Bridge
Sydney Harbour Bridge has New Year’s Eve fireworks. There are two shows: a family show at 9 PM and the main show at midnight. Fireworks are launched from the bridge and boats in the harbor. Good places to watch include Barangaroo Reserve and Mrs. Macquarie’s Point. Large crowds gather to celebrate and welcome the new year.
Cruise on the Seine River in Paris
New Year’s Eve spent on a cruise, or bateau-mouche, in the Seine River, Paris, is not only romantic but also a fun thing to do on New Year’s Eve.
Guests can see various famous sights, for example, the Eiffel Tower, while drinking and having dinner. In fact, most of them allow guests to count down at midnight and dance. Different packages that meet different budgets are offered by many companies. Generally, it is a nice way to enjoy the night with either friends or family.
Photo by Mustang Joe is licensed under CC0 1.0
Las Vegas Strip New Year’s Celebrations
The Las Vegas Strip throws a mega New Year’s Eve party with over 400,000 people. The Strip is closed to cars and becomes one huge street party, with fireworks shooting out of many hotels.
Nightclubs throw parties, and live music at Fremont Street Experience leads to a countdown at midnight. Fireworks last for about eight minutes and are synchronized with music. This creates a fun-filled way to welcome the new year with fun things to do.
Family Countdown at LEGOLAND California
On New Year’s Eve, LEGOLAND California is hosting a Kids’ New Year’s Eve party from 10 AM to 7 PM. Families can enjoy all the rides, fun activities, and an early countdown at 6 PM. The event will feature fireworks with 3D LEGO effects, as well as live music. There are special glasses for viewing these fireworks that make it even better for the kids.
Ice Skating at Rockefeller Center
Rockefeller Center is always a fun destination on New Year’s Eve. The rink is open daily from 9 AM to 11 PM, with general admission starting at $21. You can enjoy a skating session under the iconic Christmas tree. Reservations would be required as this is really in demand during the holiday season. You can rent skating equipment for an additional fee.
Jazz Party in New Orleans French Quarter
The New Orleans French Quarter hosts musical events and dancing for the Jazz Party on New Year’s Eve. Events take place at venues like Preservation Hall and bars along Frenchmen Street.
The celebration ends right at Jackson Square with a midnight Fleur de Lis Drop and fireworks. Crowds cheering on New Year’s Eve are indeed a fun thing to do to enjoy the night in the heart of the city.
Polar Bear Plunge in Coney Island
The Coney Island Polar Bear Plunge on New Year’s Day takes place from 11 AM to 1 PM. Participants jump into the Atlantic Ocean to kick off the year, continuing a tradition that dates back to 1903.
The event is free, though donations support community charities. Last year, more than 4,000 swimmers participated, raising over $130,000 for community programs. Registration is open until the day of the plunge.
Epcot New Year Celebration at Disney
EPCOT New Year’s Eve Party: Disney World features a special fireworks display at midnight called “Cheers to the New Year.” Some pavilions, such as Italy and Japan, host DJ dance parties.
The park is open from 9 AM to 1 AM, and no special ticket purchase is required to participate in these events. It’s a unique and memorable thing to do on New Year’s Eve with your family and friends.
Midnight Run in Central Park
The Midnight Run in Central Park takes place on New Year’s Eve at 11:59 PM. Music and entertainment accompany runners along a four-mile course. A costume contest adds to the festivities, and a non-alcoholic champagne station awaits runners halfway through the course. Fireworks light up the sky to mark the start of the race and the new year. Thousands of runners and spectators join to celebrate together.
Exclusive Dinner at The Eiffel Tower
One of the best and fun things to do on New Year’s Eve is having dinner at the Eiffel Tower. The restaurant, Madame Brasserie, offers a six-course menu crafted by chef Thierry Marx, paired with stunning views of Paris and the midnight fireworks.
As this is one of the most sought-after holiday experiences, a reservation is highly recommended due to high demand. It’s a perfect way to welcome the new year with exceptional food and an unforgettable setting.
Concert at Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate
In Berlin, at the Brandenburg Gate, there is a live concert featuring many artists on New Year’s Eve, along with fireworks at midnight. Food trucks and various entertainment options line the 2.5-kilometer stretch of the area.
Entry requires a ticket, but tens of thousands of visitors make sure this remains one of the biggest European parties. It’s an amazing thing to do on New Year’s Eve to welcome the new year right in the heart of the city.
Countdown Cruise in San Francisco Bay
Welcome the new year in style aboard the Countdown Cruise in San Francisco Bay. You will enjoy a four-course dining experience aboard the luxury Cabernet Sauvignon yacht, complete with a dinner buffet and hosted bar.
Spectacular landmarks, such as the Golden Gate Bridge, provide pretty views during the cruise, which ends with a fireworks show at midnight. It’s a fantastic way to celebrate the new year on the water with friends and family.
Wine Tasting at Napa Valley Wineries
Most Napa Valley wineries host special events and offer wine tastings to celebrate New Year’s Eve. Some wineries, such as Castello di Amorosa and Beringer, plan special activities at their locations. Wine tastings are often paired with food, and many venues feature live music.
Just note that reservations are highly recommended, as some wineries may have limited hours or require appointments. Wine tasting at Napa Valley is definitely a fantastic way to usher in the New Year in style.
Jim G from Silicon Valley, CA, USA, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Fun Things to Do at Home to Celebrate New Year’s Eve
New Year’s Eve Movie Marathon at Home
A movie marathon at home can also be a fun and entertaining thing to do to celebrate New Year’s Eve. Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime offer a wide variety of films, including classic favorites like When Harry Met Sally and New Year’s Eve. From comedy and drama to family-friendly options, viewers can choose from any genre they prefer while relaxing with snacks and drinks. It’s a great way to spend quality time with the family, with people counting down the moments to midnight.
Related: 10 Best Romantic Movies Perfect for Valentine’s Day
Family Game Night with Board Games
New Year’s Eve can be a fun night to spend with family, especially with a game night. Good picks for board games include Catan, King of Tokyo, and Uno.
Other fun things to do on New Year’s Eve are charades, trivia, or even a homemade bingo game. Set up snacks and drinks for added fun to let everyone enjoy each other’s company in some friendly competition as the countdown to midnight begins. It’s a great way to welcome the new year.
Balloon Drop Party for Kids
A New Year’s Eve balloon drop party for kids is a fun way to make the night lively at home. To set it up, use a shower curtain or any light fabric to hold the balloons. Fill it with balloons, attach it to the ceiling, and release them at midnight (or any chosen time) when the kids pull the string. It’s a joyful and exciting moment to watch as the balloons drop, making for a fun way to ring in the new year.
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