Top Destinations for an Unforgettable New Year's Eve Celebration
New Year's Eve holds the promise of magic or disappointment. Ensure yours is extraordinary by choosing one of these vibrant, party-centric destinations for a countdown you'll cherish forever.
Auckland, New Zealand
As one of the first places to welcome the new year, Auckland—the City of Sails—delivers a stunning display blending natural beauty and urban spectacle to kick off global festivities.
Silo Park in Wynyard Quarter hosts the Wondergarden festival, featuring live music, DJs, bobbing yachts, and the iconic SKY Tower as backdrops to a midnight fireworks extravaganza.
Partygoers can linger on the harbor, cruise the Hauraki Gulf with local Pinot Noir or Sauvignon Blanc, or view the show from Cable Bay Winery on Waiheke Island amid jazz, dancing, and fine wines.
Beat the hangover with New Zealand's world-class boutique coffee, organic juices, or a hearty breakfast at Takapuna Beach Cafe, followed by a refreshing swim in the warm waters off Takapuna Beach.
Chris Zeiher is Lonely Planet’s Director of Sales and Marketing, Asia-Pacific. Follow his tweets @chriszeiher.
British Virgin Islands, Caribbean
Despite Hurricane Irma's impact in September 2017, the resilient British Virgin Islands are rebounding strongly, planning stylish New Year's celebrations.
The iconic Old Year’s Night at Foxy’s Tamarind Bar & Restaurant on Jost Van Dyke draws crowds for DJs, barbecue, and endless rum in Caribbean tradition.
This year emphasizes local talent under the 'Rise Up Virgin Islands' theme. Dance on the sand and greet 2018's sunrise over the Caribbean Sea, symbolizing hope and renewal.
Honolulu, O’ahu, Hawaii
Honolulu embodies 'Hau’oli makahiki hou' (Happy New Year in Hawaiian) with massive festivities. The New Year’s Eve Party of the Year at Aloha Tower Marketplace offers live music, DJs, food trucks, and harbor fireworks.
For a free option, Waikiki’s fireworks launch from a beach barge, synced to Hawaiian 105 KINE FM.
Recover with award-winning breakfast at Cafe Kaila, then explore Polynesian artifacts at Bishop Museum and Hawaii's only royal palace, ‘Iolani Palace.
Alex Howard is Managing Editor of Lonely Planet’s US magazine. Follow his tweets @alexmhoward.
Venice, Italy
Venice's gondoliers, bridges, and masked balls make it a premier spot for New Year's. December 31 marks St. Sylvester's Feast Day, with lavish feasts nationwide featuring lentils for prosperity.
Venetian restaurants offer indulgent menus. Stroll canals to walk off the meal, then join thousands in Piazza San Marco for the 'Love' event: kisses amid fireworks.
Jessica Cole is Acting Features Editor of Lonely Planet’s UK magazine. Follow her tweets @coleywole.
Brighton, UK
Brighton amps up its party reputation on New Year's Eve. Ascend the i360 Tower for a lavish meal, DJ sets, and a 450ft-high pod view while singing Auld Lang Syne amid fireworks.
Other highlights: 'alternative 80s' at Komedia, beachfront heat at Patterns, and a magical night at The Mesmerist.
James Kay is Editor of lonelyplanet.com. Follow his tweets @jameskay123.
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