22 of the top places to ring in the new year

The Southern Hemisphere is perfect for travelers who aren’t fans of winter. The reversal of seasons means you’ll be able to ring in the New Year during Aussie summer. It’s also pretty cool to be able to say you were one of the first to welcome 2025. Don’t miss the iconic fireworks show along the Harbor and Harbor Bridge. People set up early along the water, so pack snacks.

Of course, we couldn’t make this list without including one of the most-watched cities on New Year’s. Plan a trip to watch the ball drop at Times Square (pack hot cocoa and hand warmers) or perhaps make a booking at a rooftop bar for smaller crowds.

If you want to party into the wee morning hours, there’s no better place than the Argentinian capital. The city can be a bit calmer as many residents head to the coast to celebrate the nuevo ano. But those that stay in BA are in festive spirits thanks to the tradition of throwing out old calendars and agendas into the streets, which is symbolic of a fresh start. Celebrate the night with a typical meal at a steakhouse, then head to a tango show.

This holiday is more low-key across Japan than other locations. Most Japanese celebrate at home with families or head to shrines and temples at midnight. You can join the latter as a visitor for a unique cultural experience.

Early January and the New Year’s holiday is an ideal time to visit the UK capital. The Christmas crowds will be on their way out and everything is a bit calmer while still maintaining a festive spirit. Catch the New Year’s Day parade during daylight and then in the evening, enjoy fireworks displays from Westminster Bridge, South Bank, or a Thames Cruise.

Party Central USA doesn’t slow down the post-holiday season. In fact, NOLA is just gearing up for Mardi Gras season later in the year. New York has the ball, and New Orleans has the fleur de lis drop in Jackson Square, usually in warmer temps than the northern city. You can also celebrate with a party in the French Quarter.

Looking for a tropical getaway to start the next year off right? Head to Singapore for balmy temps, beaches, and a magical fireworks display along the water.

If you missed the Olympic celebrations this year in the City of Light, don’t worry, you can still end the year in one of Europe’s most beautiful capitals. Visitors can enjoy a cruise on the Seine or, if you don’t mind crowds, celebrate with half the city along the Champs Elysées.

Rio, like New York, is a famous place for the holiday. A must-do on New Year’s Eve is to party with the locals at Copacabana Beach. Celebrations start during the day and go long past midnight with a state-of-the-art fireworks show.

Seattle is just the place if you’re looking for a low-key West Coast soiree. Have dinner downtown, then head to the Seattle Center or Gas Works Park to watch the fireworks display around the Space Needle. Alternatively, book a cruise from the waterfront to watch various Puget Sound communities light off their own celebratory fireworks.

Bangkok is known as a party hub no matter the season and that doesn’t change come New Year’s Eve. The best place to ring in 2025 would be along the river or from a rooftop bar to enjoy the fireworks.

The snowy Icelandic capital has some interesting traditions on NYE. First, most residents watch the nationally televised comedy show, “Áramótaskaupið ( or "The New Year's Lampoon),” at around 10:30 p.m., and everyone goes out and lights their own fireworks before heading to the bars until early morning. 

Like other Southern Hemisphere cities, Cape Town is great as it is just kicking off the summer season. Beach parties, waterfront boat charters, outdoor concerts, and winery celebrations are all on the docket for New Year’s!

If you’re looking for a bit of Europe in North America, head to Québec City. The winding streets feel like another continent while the piles of snow, poutine, maple syrup treats, and local friendliness are all distinctly Canadian. Head to the Grand Allée, where businesses will have everything (namely food and drink) to make your celebration special. There’s also live music, fireworks, and a big toboggan slide along the water.

Street parties, amazing bar-hopping, and some of the top restaurants in the world await visitors looking to celebrate in the Mexican capital. Make sure to get to the Angel of Independence at some point where musicians and partygoers will gather throughout the night.

You’ll likely need a reservation for the best NYE experience in Dubai. So make a booking early if you want a fancy meal, especially with a view of the fireworks. The vibe is definitely more high-end, so dress your best and don’t expect a budget evening.

Travelers love Barcelona, especially those looking for a big night out. And what better way to kick off another spin around the globe? The beachfront holds soirées throughout the evening, and the Plaça d’Espanya hosts fireworks. 

NYE is one of the most festive times of the year in Edinburgh. Local celebrations take place at pubs, then spill out to street parties with live music, fireworks, and everyone singing along to “Auld Lang Syne.”

Colombia’s Caribbean coast is a colorful place to welcome another year. Cartagena has plenty to offer for the typical three-stage Colombian NYE celebration. First, a late dinner — make sure to reserve in advance, then countdown and toast with champagne before joining everyone in the streets for a night of partying.

The Austrian capital shuts down many streets for this evening so that visitors and locals alike can enjoy the evening. Everyone grabs drinks and celebrates in the numerous Platz (squares) under the still-lit holiday lights.

Some of the best fireworks in the world are lit along Hong Kong’s Victoria Harbor. Take in the show after indulging in a delicious dim sum meal!

Long known as the “adventure capital” of New Zealand, this popular south island destination is an ideal place for an outdoorsy traveler to welcome another year. Go hiking, skydiving, or kayaking during the day, then enjoy fireworks from a Queenstown pub.