The earliest recorded New Year celebration dates back over 4,000 years to ancient Babylon, where people observed the new year during the spring equinox. Their festivities, known as Akitu, were tied to agricultural cycles and involved a series of rituals meant to cleanse the land and crown a new king. Over centuries, different civilizations marked the new year based on lunar or solar calendars. The Romans shifted the date to January 1st in 45 BCE, when Julius Caesar reformed the calendar to align with the sun. This date stuck, and as Christianity spread, it gained religious meaning as well.
Fast forward to today, and New Year’s Eve is less about agriculture or kingship and more about parties, fireworks, and fresh starts. But each city that celebrates still puts its own historical spin on things. Here are the top 10 cities where the countdown to midnight becomes an unforgettable experience.
1. Sydney, Australia
The History
Sydney is among the first major cities in the world to welcome the new year, thanks to its location near the International Date Line. The tradition of lighting up Sydney Harbour began in 1976, but the now-iconic fireworks show really took off in the 1990s, transforming the Harbour Bridge and Opera House into a dazzling pyrotechnic canvas. Indigenous Gadigal land, Sydney’s modern celebrations aim to include elements of Aboriginal culture alongside the light show.
Australia’s New Year customs also draw influence from British colonial heritage, with earlier celebrations centered around family picnics, beach gatherings, and local community dances. The emphasis on the outdoors and harbor views became prominent in the mid-20th century, especially as Sydney’s global profile grew. The celebration now draws over a million spectators each year, with millions more tuning in worldwide. In recent years, the event has also emphasized sustainability and inclusion, incorporating traditional Indigenous performances like the smoking ceremony and welcome to country. These nods to First Nations culture are a vital part of the city’s broader reconciliation efforts. The show is curated down to the second by local and international pyrotechnic experts, turning Sydney into a beacon for the global new year celebration.
What to Do
- Watch the fireworks from Mrs. Macquarie’s Point or book a harbour cruise for front-row views.
- Attend the Barangaroo Reserve picnic, a family-friendly event with great views (tickets sell fast).
- Explore the Royal Botanic Garden’s NYE parties, which offer curated dining and garden views of the fireworks.
Weather & Safety
Sydney in late December is hot and humid, with temperatures between 70–85°F (21–29°C). Wear light, breathable clothes and stay hydrated. Use high-SPF sunscreen and bring a hat for daytime outings. Crowds can be intense; use public transport and plan your exit in advance. Book accommodations and event tickets 6–9 months ahead for the best spots.
2. Edinburgh, Scotland
The History
Hogmanay, Scotland’s traditional New Year celebration, predates Christmas festivities, which were banned during the Protestant Reformation. Hogmanay has Viking roots, with Norse customs of lighting bonfires to ward off evil spirits. In modern times, the multi-day event includes fire ceremonies, torchlight processions, and ceilidh dances.
The name “Hogmanay” itself has murky origins, possibly from the French word “hoguinané” related to New Year gifts, reflecting Auld Alliance ties between France and Scotland. In the 17th and 18th centuries, Scotland’s Calvinist church discouraged Christmas festivities, so the Scottish people turned Hogmanay into their primary winter celebration. First-footing—a tradition where the first person to enter a home after midnight brings symbolic gifts—remains popular in rural areas. Fire has always been a key element, from the Stonehaven Fireballs in Aberdeenshire to Edinburgh’s organized bonfires and fireworks. The post-midnight singing of “Auld Lang Syne,” a poem by Robert Burns, became globally associated with New Year’s Eve thanks to Scottish immigrants spreading the tradition abroad. Hogmanay has evolved from its spiritual and superstitious roots to a city-wide street festival that showcases Scottish pride, music, and revelry to the world.
What to Do
- Join the Torchlight Procession through Edinburgh’s medieval Old Town (approx 7:30-10pm).
- Ring in the new year at the Concert in the Gardens beneath Edinburgh Castle.
- Participate in the Loony Dook on January 1st—an icy plunge in the River Forth while wearing costumes.
Weather & Safety
Expect cold, damp weather with temps around 32–40°F (0–5°C). Wear warm, waterproof layers and sturdy shoes. Some events are ticketed, so plan ahead and purchase early. Public transport runs late but expect crowds. Book lodging 4–6 months in advance, especially in the city center.
3. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
The History
New Year’s Eve in Rio, known as Réveillon, blends African, Indigenous, and Catholic traditions. The beach party at Copacabana honors Yemanjá, the Afro-Brazilian goddess of the sea, with offerings of white flowers and candles.
Réveillon is a product of Brazil’s rich syncretism. The practice of wearing white, for example, stems from Afro-Brazilian religions like Candomblé, where the color symbolizes peace and spiritual purity. The tradition of offerings to Yemanjá—flowers, perfume, and jewelry cast into the sea—reflects centuries of devotion brought by enslaved Africans. Over time, this deeply spiritual ritual merged with European-style fireworks displays and Catholic midnight masses. During Brazil’s military dictatorship (1964–1985), informal celebrations flourished on Copacabana Beach as a form of peaceful protest and communal joy. Since then, it has grown into one of the largest NYE gatherings on the planet, with elaborate sound stages, live samba, and even drone shows. Though tourists see a giant party, many Brazilians experience it as a spiritual renewal, blending joy and reverence to start the year in harmony.
What to Do
- Dress in white to bring peace and good luck—almost everyone does it and it makes for a beautiful scene.
- Celebrate at the Copacabana beach party, which includes live music, samba, and fireworks.
- Toss white flowers and candles into the ocean as offerings to Yemanjá, the goddess of the sea.
Weather & Safety
It’s hot and humid in Rio—temperatures average 77–86°F (25–30°C). Hydrate well, wear light clothing, and use sunscreen. Leave valuables at home and stick to well-lit areas. Use licensed taxis or rideshares. Book accommodations and beach-view spots 9–12 months in advance.
4. New York City, USA
The History
Times Square’s ball drop began in 1907 after fireworks were banned. The first ball was made of iron and wood, lit by 100 light bulbs. Now it’s a Waterford crystal orb dropped at midnight as part of a global broadcast watched by over a billion people.
The tradition of celebrating New Year’s Eve in Times Square dates back to the early 1900s when The New York Times moved its headquarters to what was then Longacre Square. The area was soon renamed Times Square, and the newspaper hosted rooftop celebrations to mark the occasion. The ball drop was inspired by time balls once used by maritime observatories to help ships coordinate navigation. Over the decades, the ball has evolved through multiple designs: iron and wood, then iron and aluminum, and now an LED-powered crystal sphere. The ritual persisted through the Great Depression, world wars, and even pandemics. The event is now a cultural touchstone, drawing people from around the globe to stand in freezing temperatures for a once-in-a-lifetime communal cheer. Times Square is also known for its confetti blizzard, where handwritten wishes from visitors are shredded and tossed at midnight, a modern take on symbolic renewal.
What to Do
- Watch the ball drop in Times Square (arrive by early afternoon for a front-row view) – and find a bathroom early, before you get penned in by the barricades.
- Book a rooftop party or hotel room overlooking Times Square for elevated views and a warm space. (Plan at least 6 months in advance and expect to pay $$$, but this is definitely the best experience!)
- Enjoy winter activities like ice skating at Bryant Park or visiting festive holiday markets.
Weather & Safety
Expect cold temperatures between 28–40°F (-2–4°C). Wear insulated coats, gloves, and waterproof boots. Times Square offers no bathrooms or re-entry, so plan accordingly. Consider quieter spots like Brooklyn Bridge Park for a great view with fewer crowds. Reserve hotels 6–12 months in advance.
5. Cape Town, South Africa
The History
Cape Town’s New Year’s Eve is deeply connected to a rich and complicated history, shaped by colonial legacies and cultural blending. The tradition of ringing in the new year with fanfare was introduced by Dutch and British settlers, but it took on a distinctly local character over time. Most significantly, the Kaapse Klopse or Cape Minstrel Carnival—which begins on January 2nd—has roots in the 19th century, when enslaved people were granted a day off to celebrate and express themselves through music and dance. The event evolved as a celebration of freedom, featuring parades of costumed minstrels playing banjos, singing ghoema songs, and marching through the streets.
Though New Year’s Eve is not officially tied to Kaapse Klopse, the festive spirit and musical traditions set the tone. Today, NYE in Cape Town blends modern fireworks at the V&A Waterfront with music festivals and traditional performances. The city’s diverse heritage—from Xhosa customs to Cape Malay cuisine—is on full display during the season. It’s a celebration of resilience and multicultural identity, framed by Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean.
What to Do
- Fireworks at the V&A Waterfront.
- Live music at Kirstenbosch Gardens.
- Hike Table Mountain for a sunrise view.
Weather & Safety
Expect warm, dry summer weather. Wear light clothing but bring a jacket for the wind. Avoid remote areas after dark and use Uber or metered taxis. Book lodging 6 months out.
6. Tokyo, Japan
The History
In Japan, New Year’s Eve, or Ōmisoka, is both a spiritual and communal reset. Its roots go back to Shinto and Buddhist customs that emphasize purification and renewal. Before the Gregorian calendar was adopted in 1873, the Japanese celebrated the new year in alignment with the lunar calendar, but the core traditions remained. At Buddhist temples, the ritual of Joya no Kane is performed, in which a bell is rung 108 times at midnight to symbolically cast away the 108 human sins and worldly desires.
Ōmisoka is not so much about fireworks and wild countdowns as it is about intentionality. Families clean their homes, settle debts, and prepare traditional meals like toshikoshi soba, which symbolizes long life. On New Year’s Day, the practice of hatsumōde—the first shrine or temple visit of the year—brings millions to religious sites across Tokyo. Major temples like Zojo-ji and Senso-ji become gathering points for a calm yet powerful communal experience. The quiet reflection and optimism embedded in Japanese NYE customs offer a contrast to more boisterous global parties.
What to Do
- Visit Zojo-ji or Senso-ji temples.
- Eat osechi ryori and mochi.
- Watch sunrise from Mount Takao or Tokyo Bay.
Weather & Safety
Winter in Tokyo is chilly but dry. Dress warmly. It’s very safe, but trains get packed. Book accommodation 3-5 months in advance, especially near temples.
7. Reykjavik, Iceland
The History
In Reykjavik, New Year’s Eve is an electric mix of Viking tradition, modern chaos, and community spirit. Icelanders embrace fire as a symbol of rebirth and protection, a tradition that harks back to Norse solstice ceremonies. The brenna (bonfire) was once a sacred rite to banish spirits and purify the community. The idea was to throw out what you didn’t need at the end of the year and people still do it today – both physically and spiritually. It’s a key part of the city’s NYE celebrations, with bonfires – some massive – springing up across neighborhoods.
After WWII, the Icelandic government encouraged the public to create their own celebrations in the absence of state-sponsored events, giving rise to the now-iconic homegrown firework displays. Since then, personal fireworks have become not just a form of celebration, but also a civic fundraiser—sales support local rescue teams. As such, the entire city does their part and sets off fireworks on what feels like every street corner and rooftop.
Add in Reykjavik’s uniquely theatrical NYE sketch comedy shows on national TV (like “Áramótaskaupið”) – which Icelanders all watch as a tradition on NYE – and you’ve got a celebration like no other. Iceland’s relative isolation, long dark nights, and tight-knit communities amplify the warmth and revelry of this night.
What to Do
- Join a neighborhood bonfire.
- Watch fireworks from Perlan (book in advance and dress for the occassion for this Champagne party) or Hallgrímskirkja (Reykjavik’s answer to Times Square – prepare for crowds).
- Go for a midnight geothermal soak at the Blue Lagoon.
Listen to Cerca’s Guide to Iceland for more hidden treasures and insider tips.
Weather & Safety
Expect snow and icy streets. Wear proper boots and layers. Reykjavik is safe but book tours and lodging 4-6 months out. Be prepared for the sound of fireworks to last until dawn (at 11am).
8. Berlin, Germany
The History
Berlin’s Silvester (New Year’s Eve) celebrations have gone through centuries of transformation, from pagan solstice fires to 19th-century Prussian elegance to modern techno mayhem. Named after Saint Sylvester, whose feast day falls on December 31st, the holiday originally involved church bells and candlelit vigils. But in true Berlin fashion, Silvester became something entirely more expressive.
After WWII, fireworks and parties were seen as a reclaiming of joy amidst postwar ruin. In the 1990s, following German reunification, Berlin introduced its now-legendary Brandenburg Gate party, stretching along the Straße des 17. Juni with music, lights, and a sense of national unity. Clubs like Berghain and Sisyphos embody the freedom and hedonism Berlin is known for, offering marathon dance parties that last until January 2nd or later. Yet Silvester still holds onto its traditional customs—lead pouring (Bleigießen, now banned), lucky charms, and eating lentils for wealth.
What to Do
- Attend the Brandenburg Gate Party Mile.
- Dance all night at clubs like Berghain or Sisyphos.
- Chill out with currywurst and mulled wine.
Weather & Safety
Cold, damp, and festive. Wear waterproof layers. Fireworks are DIY and can be chaotic—stay alert. Book early: at least 4-6 months ahead.
9. Bangkok, Thailand
The History
Although Thailand’s traditional New Year celebration is Songkran in April, the Western-style countdown on December 31st has gained popularity over the past few decades. Bangkok’s embrace of NYE coincided with its rapid development as a global capital in the late 20th century. Inspired by international trends and bolstered by tourism, the Thai capital began hosting large public parties by the 1990s.
Despite being a newer phenomenon, Bangkok’s NYE blends Thai hospitality with Western spectacle. The event at CentralWorld Plaza—often dubbed “Asia’s Times Square”—features countdown stages, music, light shows, and even Thai spiritual elements like candle lighting. Many locals also pay a visit to temples after midnight or early on January 1st to receive blessings for the new year. Fireworks over the Chao Phraya River and sky bars offering sweeping views add a luxurious and unforgettable element to the celebration.
What to Do
- Countdown at CentralWorld Plaza.
- Watch fireworks from a Chao Phraya River cruise.
- Visit Wat Arun for early-morning blessings.
Weather & Safety
December is dry season; expect warm nights. Watch your belongings in crowds. Book accommodation 3-5 months out.
10. Valparaíso, Chile
The History
Valparaíso hosts one of Latin America’s largest and most unique New Year’s Eve celebrations, rooted in both civic pride and artistic rebellion. The fireworks tradition started modestly in the 1950s, when city officials launched small pyrotechnic shows from boats. Over time, it evolved into a massive spectacle involving 17 coastal towns along the Bay of Valparaíso.
The city’s bohemian and maritime identity plays a major role in how NYE unfolds. Valparaíso has long been a haven for poets, revolutionaries, and street artists, and its steep hills and colorful buildings provide a cinematic setting for celebration. Local customs include the 12 grapes at midnight (a Spanish import), wearing yellow underwear for good luck, and spontaneous street parties in Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepción. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, Valparaíso pairs history with exuberance, making it one of the most visually and emotionally unforgettable places to ring in the new year.
What to Do
- Find a hilltop view from Cerro Alegre.
- Eat grapes at midnight (one for each month of luck).
- Join the party at Plaza Sotomayor.
Weather & Safety
It’s summer in Chile, so expect warm nights and cool ocean breezes. Stay in safe areas; book 4-6 months ahead.
However you like to party…
From ice baths in Edinburgh to midnight noodles in Tokyo, each city on this list reflects the way culture, climate, and history shape how we all celebrate the new year. Planning ahead is crucial for a prime spot at the perfect moment, but there are plenty of great experiences to be had at the spur of the moment. Travel well, and make new friends.
