Best Places To Go For New Year: Hop Into 2026 with a Trip

Key takeaways

For celebrations in the US:

• New York City, New York: Experience the world-famous Times Square ball drop with over a million people or rooftop parties with skyline views.
• Las Vegas, Nevada: Witness the Strip's synchronized fireworks from multiple casino rooftops and celebrity DJ performances at legendary nightclubs.
• New Orleans, Louisiana: Immerse yourself in authentic jazz celebrations with brass bands, second lines through the French Quarter, the fleur-de-lis drop at Jackson Square, and traditional Reveillon dinners showcasing Creole cuisine.
• Miami, Florida: Celebrate in beach weather with South Beach street parties, Bayfront Park fireworks over Biscayne Bay, and Latin-influenced festivities in Little Havana.
• Nashville, Tennessee: Enjoy free live country music at Broadway honky-tonks, Music City Midnight's note drop (instead of a ball), and affordable Southern hospitality.
• Orlando, Florida: Disney and Universal theme parks with character appearances, special fireworks shows, and EPCOT's multiple countdowns around World Showcase.

For international bucket-list experiences:

• Sydney, Australia: Be among the first to ring in the new year with spectacular harbor fireworks featuring the Opera House and Harbour Bridge.
• Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Join over two million people at Copacabana Beach Reveillon dressed in white, and watch offshore fireworks.
• Dubai, UAE: Witness the Burj Khalifa's elaborate LED light show on the world's tallest building.
• London, England: Watch Thames River fireworks with Big Ben and the London Eye as a backdrop.
• Edinburgh, Scotland: Experience three-day Hogmanay festival with a torchlight procession through historic streets.
• Tokyo, Japan: Participate in temple bells ringing 108 times at midnight and contemplative celebrations blending ancient traditions with modern festivities.
• Paris, France: Toast on the Champs-Élysées with over a million people, and watch the Eiffel Tower's special light show.
• Reykjavík, Iceland: Witness the world's most intense personal fireworks display erupting from every direction and community bonfires throughout the city.
• Prague, Czech Republic: Medieval Old Town celebrations, Christmas markets extending into the new year, affordable beer and dining, and beautiful architecture.

Best places to go for New Year's Eve within the US

New York City, New York

Every December 31st, over a million people gather in Times Square to watch the Waterford Crystal ball descend in the final seconds of the year. There are also firework shows in Central Park and rooftop countdowns across Manhattan and Brooklyn. Whether you’re bundled up among the crowds or sipping Champagne above the skyline, NYC delivers unmatched energy and excitement.

• Main airport: JFK, LaGuardia (LGA), or Newark (EWR)
• Budget: $$$$
• Main attractions: Times Square, Central Park, Broadway, Empire State Building
• Average Going deal: $162 roundtrip 
• Special events: Times Square Ball Drop, New Year’s Eve Concert for Peace, fireworks in Central Park

Miami, Florida

If you prefer palm trees over scarves and gloves, Miami brings the heat with beachfront fireworks and glamorous all-night parties. South Beach buzzes with music and dancing, while waterfront spots like Bayfront Park host free outdoor concerts. It’s the perfect mix of celebration and sunshine for anyone wanting a warm start to the year.

• Main airport: Miami International Airport (MIA), Fort Lauderdale (FLL) also nearby
• Budget: $$-$$$
• Main attractions: South Beach, Wynwood Walls, Little Havana
• Average Going deal: $182 roundtrip
• Special events: Bayfront Park NYE, Ocean Drive Fireworks

Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas does everything big, and New Year's Eve is its Super Bowl. The Strip shuts down entirely to vehicles from about 6pm, transforming four miles into a pedestrian party zone with over 300,000 people. From poolside celebrations to world-class DJs, every resort joins the countdown. It’s flashy, loud, and pure fun—a perfect fit for those looking to welcome the new year in spectacular fashion.

• Main airport: Harry Reid International Airport (LAS)
• Budget: $$$–$$$$
• Main attractions: The Strip, Bellagio Fountains, Fremont Street Experience
• Average Going deal: $175 roundtrip
• Special events: America’s Party on the Strip, Downtown Countdown

Related reading:

• 12 of the best free things to do in Las Vegas
• Where to stay in Las Vegas
• Las Vegas itinerary: How to spend 2, 3, or 4 days
• The best day trips from Las Vegas

New Orleans, Louisiana

In New Orleans, New Year’s Eve means jazz and fireworks over the Mississippi, with the famous "fleur de lis drop" at midnight—New Orleans's answer to Times Square's ball. The charm of the French Quarter makes it even more magical.

• Main airport: Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY)
• Budget: $$–$$$
• Main attractions: French Quarter, Jackson Square, Garden District
• Average Going deal: $198 roundtrip
• Special events: Fleur de lis drop, Jackson Square Celebration

Nashville, Tennessee

Music City lives up to its name with a massive free concert downtown featuring country and rock stars. The midnight “Music Note Drop” and fireworks make it a family-friendly yet lively celebration. Warm Southern hospitality and great live music make Nashville’s NYE feel both big and intimate.

• Main airport: Nashville International Airport (BNA)
• Budget: $$
• Main attractions: Broadway bars, Country Music Hall of Fame, Centennial Park
• Average Going deal: $189 roundtrip
• Special events: Big Bash on Broadway, Music Note Drop

Chicago, Illinois

Chicago's New Year's celebration centers around Navy Pier, where spectacular midnight fireworks launch over Lake Michigan. The show is choreographed to music and lasts about 15 minutes, with pyrotechnics reflecting off the lake's surface and Chicago's skyline providing a dramatic backdrop. 

• Main airport: O’Hare International Airport (ORD), Midway International Airport (MDW)
• Budget: $$–$$$
• Main attractions: Millennium Park, Navy Pier, Riverwalk
• Average Going deal: $146 roundtrip
• Special events: Navy Pier Fireworks, Chi-Town Rising

Related reading:

• Chicago itinerary: How to spend 2, 3 or 5 days
• 18 free things to do in Chicago
• Where to stay in Chicago

San Francisco, California

San Francisco offers a more laidback but equally spectacular New Year celebration. Midnight fireworks launched from barges on the Bay create stunning views with the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, Bay Bridge, and the city's hilly skyline all visible at once. The display lasts about 20 minutes and is choreographed to music.

• Main airport: San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
• Budget: $$$
• Main attractions: Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, Chinatown, Alcatraz
• Average Going deal: $176 roundtrip
• Special events: Embarcadero Fireworks Show, San Francisco Symphony NYE Gala

Related reading:

• San Francisco itinerary: 2, 3, and 4 days
• Where to stay in San Francisco
• 22 best day trips from San Francisco

Denver, Colorado

Denver brings a mix of mountain charm and city celebration, with fireworks over the 16th Street Mall and rooftop parties overlooking the Rockies. For a more local vibe, breweries and music venues host cozy countdowns perfect for a laidback yet festive night.

• Main airport: Denver International Airport (DEN)
• Budget: $$–$$$
• Main attractions: 16th Street Mall, Union Station, Red Rocks Amphitheatre
• Average Going deal: $165 roundtrip
• Special events: Downtown fireworks, Union Station NYE Bash

Orlando, Florida

Orlando is one of the best places in the US to celebrate New Year’s Eve, especially for families and theme park fans. Walt Disney World and Universal Studios host dazzling fireworks, parades, and late-night shows. With Magic Kingdom's midnight fireworks show "Fantasy in the Sky" serving as the crown jewel. 

• Main airport: Orlando International Airport (MCO)
• Budget: $$–$$$
• Main attractions: Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, ICON Park
• Average Going deal: $157 roundtrip
• Special events: Disney’s “Fantasy in the Sky” Fireworks, Universal Orlando Countdown Party, ICON Park NYE Celebration

Seattle, Washington

Seattle's Space Needle serves as the iconic centerpiece for the city's New Year celebration. Locals gather at the Seattle Center or cruise the bay for incredible views. The city’s vibrant music scene keeps the energy going late into the night, making it ideal for travelers who love a mix of lights, sound, and celebration.

• Main airport: Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)
• Budget: $$–$$$
• Main attractions: Space Needle, Pike Place Market, Chihuly Garden and Glass
• Average Going deal: $178 roundtrip
• Special events: Space Needle Fireworks, Seattle Center Winterfest

Related reading:

• Seattle itinerary: 2, 3, or 4 days
• 13 best day trips from Seattle
• 9 free things to do in Seattle
• Where to stay in Seattle

Los Angeles, California

Los Angeles offers endless ways to celebrate, from glamorous Hollywood galas to fireworks on the beach. Watch the countdown from Griffith Observatory, or head to Santa Monica Pier for a more laidback vibe. With perfect weather and countless party options, LA’s NYE is equal parts festive and free-spirited.

• Main airport: Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
• Budget: $$$
• Main attractions: Griffith Observatory, Hollywood, Santa Monica Pier
• Average Going deal: $183 roundtrip
• Special events: Grand Park Countdown, Hollywood Bowl Concert

Boston, Massachusetts

Boston combines Revolutionary War history with New Year's celebrations. First Night Boston offers one of America's oldest and largest New Year arts celebrations with over 200 performances across 40+ venues throughout downtown including theater, dance, comedy, music, ice sculptures, and family activities.

• Main airport: Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)
• Budget: $$–$$$
• Main attractions: Boston Common, Faneuil Hall, Freedom Trail
• Average Going deal: $185 roundtrip
• Special events: First Night Boston, harbor fireworks

Austin, Texas

Austin keeps it weird even on New Year's Eve, staying true to its "Live Music Capital of the World" reputation. The city’s live music scene comes alive with performances all across the city, from downtown bars to outdoor stages. Fireworks at Auditorium Shores and the relaxed, friendly vibe make Austin perfect for those who prefer authentic celebrations with a creative twist.

• Main airport: Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS)
• Budget: $$
• Main attractions: Sixth Street, Lady Bird Lake, Zilker Park
• Average Going deal: $185 roundtrip
• Special events: Austin’s New Year at Auditorium Shores, NYE Live at the Speakeasy

Top international destinations to go for New Year

Sydney, Australia

Sydney hosts one of the world's most spectacular New Year's celebrations, and it's the first major city to ring in the new year! The harbor becomes the centerpiece for an unforgettable show featuring fireworks launched from the Sydney Harbour Bridge. The atmosphere is festive and celebratory, with Sydney's summer weather making outdoor celebrations comfortable in light clothing.

• Main airport: Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport (SYD)
• Budget: $$$$
• Main attractions: Sydney Harbour Bridge, Opera House, Bondi Beach
• Average Going deal: $870 roundtrip
• Special events: Sydney Harbour Fireworks, Opera House NYE Gala

Dubai, UAE

Dubai’s skyline erupts with synchronized fireworks and drone shows, especially around the Burj Khalifa. The world's tallest building serves as the centerpiece for an elaborate light show and fireworks display. LED screens covering the building's facade create animated shows synchronized with pyrotechnics launching from multiple levels.

• Main airport: Dubai International Airport (DXB)
• Budget: $$$$
• Main attractions: Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina
• Average Going deal: $668 roundtrip
• Special events: Burj Khalifa fireworks, Atlantis The Palm Gala

London, England

London's New Year's celebration centers on the Thames River with spectacular fireworks launched from the London Eye and barges positioned along the river. Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and London's skyline provide a stunning backdrop as pyrotechnics light up the night. The display is choreographed to music and lasts about 12 minutes, watched by over 100,000 people along the river.

• Main airport: Heathrow Airport (LHR), Gatwick Airport (LGW)
• Budget: $$$
• Main attractions: Big Ben, Tower Bridge, South Bank
• Average Going deal: $538 roundtrip
• Special events: London Eye fireworks, Southbank Winter Festival

Related reading:

• 18 things to do in London
• London itinerary: 2, 3, and 5 days
• Where to stay in London

Paris, France

Paris, the City of Light, illuminates even brighter on New Year's Eve. The Champs-Élysées transforms into one massive celebration with over a million people gathering along the avenue leading to the Arc de Triomphe. At midnight, the Eiffel Tower sparkles with its special light show while fireworks launch nearby.

• Main airport: Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), Paris Orly Airport (ORY)
• Budget: $$$–$$$$
• Main attractions: Eiffel Tower, Montmartre, Champs-Élysées
• Average Going deal: $536 roundtrip
• Special events: Champs-Élysées light show, Seine River cruises

Related reading:

• Paris itinerary: 2, 3, or 5 days
• 14 of the best things to do in Paris
• The best day trips from Paris

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Rio de Janeiro hosts one of the world's largest New Year celebrations with Reveillon at Copacabana Beach. Over two million people dressed in white (tradition for good luck) gather on the famous beach for a massive party featuring live music on multiple stages, fireworks launched from barges offshore, and offerings to Yemanjá, the goddess of the sea, with flowers thrown into the ocean.

• Main airport: Galeão International Airport (GIG)
• Budget: $$–$$$
• Main attractions: Copacabana Beach, Sugarloaf Mountain, Christ the Redeemer
• Average Going deal: $629 roundtrip
• Special events: Reveillon beach party, Samba parades

Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo offers a completely different New Year experience. While December 31st (Omisoka) is celebrated, January 1st (Shogatsu) holds more cultural significance as the most important holiday in Japan. On New Year's Eve, temples across Tokyo ring their bells 108 times at midnight (joya no kane) to symbolize cleansing 108 worldly desires.

• Main airport: Narita (NRT), Haneda (HND)
• Budget: $$$–$$$$
• Main attractions: Shibuya Crossing, Tokyo Skytree, Senso-ji Temple and Meiji Jingu Shrine, Shinjuku and Harajuku
• Average Going deal: $793 roundtrip
• Special events: Temple bell ringing at midnight, Tokyo Tower illumination, Western-style parties in Shibuya/Roppongi

Related reading:

• Tokyo itinerary: How to spend 3, 5, or 7 days
• Where to stay in Tokyo
• The best day trips from Tokyo
• 15 of the best things to do in Tokyo

Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh hosts Hogmanay, Scotland's legendary three-day New Year festival that's become one of Europe's premier celebrations. The festivities begin December 30th with a torchlight procession through the city—thousands carry torches from the Royal Mile to Calton Hill, creating a river of fire through historic streets. New Year's Eve features a massive street party in the city center with multiple stages hosting live music, DJs, and traditional Scottish entertainment.

• Main airport: Edinburgh Airport (EDI)
• Budget: $$–$$$
• Main attractions: Edinburgh Castle, Royal Mile, Arthur’s Seat
• Average Going deal: $583 roundtrip
• Special events: Hogmanay Festival, torchlight procession

Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok offers New Year celebrations blending Thai traditions with international party culture at remarkably affordable prices. CentralWorld hosts the city's main countdown with a massive outdoor concert. The Chao Phraya River becomes a celebration zone with dinner cruises offering views of illuminated temples (Wat Arun, Wat Pho) and fireworks from multiple locations.

• Main airport: Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK)
• Budget: $–$$
• Main attractions: Wat Arun, Khao San Road, Asiatique Riverfront
• Average Going deal: $845 roundtrip
• Special events: CentralWorld countdown, IconSiam fireworks

Hong Kong

Hong Kong delivers a spectacular New Year celebration centered on Victoria Harbour. The Symphony of Lights show intensifies for New Year with additional pyrotechnics launched from buildings on both Hong Kong Island and Kowloon sides of the harbor. Lan Kwai Fong, Hong Kong's famous nightlife district, hosts massive street parties with bars and clubs overflowing into the streets.

• Main airport: Hong Kong International Airport (HKG)
• Budget: $$$$
• Main attractions: Victoria Peak, Star Ferry, Disneyland, Temple Street Night Market
• Average Going deal: $729 roundtrip
• Special events: Victoria Harbour fireworks and light show, Hong Kong New Year Countdown Celebrations, Lan Kwai Fong street parties

Berlin, Germany

Berlin celebrates New Year with characteristic German vibes. The Brandenburg Gate hosts the city's official "Party Mile" celebration stretching from the Gate along Straße des 17. Juni. Over a million people attend this free event featuring multiple stages with live music, DJs, food vendors, and a spectacular midnight fireworks display over the historic landmark. Alexanderplatz hosts another major celebration, while neighborhoods like Kreuzberg, Friedrichshain, and Prenzlauer Berg throw parties.

• Main airport: Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER)
• Budget: $$
• Main attractions: Brandenburg Gate, Berlin Wall Memorial, Museum Island, East Side Gallery
• Average Going deal: $486 roundtrip
• Special events: New Year’s Eve open-air celebration with fireworks at the Brandenburg Gate, “party mile” along Straße des 17. Juni, club and rooftop parties across Kreuzberg/Friedrichshain/Mitte

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona combines Mediterranean charm with energetic New Year celebrations. Plaça d'Espanya and Avinguda de la Reina Maria Cristina host the city's main celebration with a light show projected onto the Magic Fountain, fireworks, and live entertainment. At midnight, Barcelonians follow the tradition of eating 12 grapes—one with each bell chime—for good luck in the coming year.

• Main airport: Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN)
• Budget: $$–$$$
• Main attractions: Sagrada Família, Park Güell, La Rambla, Gothic Quarter
• Average Going deal: $511 roundtrip
• Special events: Fireworks and light-show at Plaça d’Espanya/Avinguda de la Reina Maria Cristina, eating 12 grapes at midnight, rooftop parties and beach-plunge at La Barceloneta

Singapore

Singapore creates a sophisticated New Year celebration befitting its reputation as a clean, efficient city-state. Marina Bay becomes the focal point with spectacular fireworks launched from multiple locations around the bay. The multicultural nature of Singapore means diverse celebrations across neighborhoods—Chinatown, Little India, Kampong Glam—each reflecting different cultural traditions.

• Main airport: Singapore Changi Airport (SIN)
• Budget: $$$
• Main attractions: Gardens by the Bay, Marina Bay Sands, Sentosa Island, Orchard Road shopping
• Average Going deal: $826 roundtrip
• Special events: Marina Bay Countdown fireworks and live shows, rooftop bar/clubs at Marina Bay Sands, neighborhood countdown parties across Chinatown/Little India/Kampong Glam

Reykjavík, Iceland

Reykjavík offers perhaps the world's most unique New Year celebration, blending Icelandic traditions with community. The evening begins with bonfires throughout the city. At 10:30pm, national television broadcasts the annual comedy show Áramótaskaup. Then at midnight, the entire city erupts in fireworks—not just official displays, but thousands of residents launching personal fireworks from their yards and rooftops.

• Main airport: Keflavík International Airport (KEF)
• Budget: $$$
• Main attractions: Blue Lagoon and other hot springs, Golden Circle, Hallgrímskirkja, Northern Lights tours
• Average Going deal: $493 roundtrip
• Special events: Neighborhood bonfires, nationally-broadcast comedy show, city-wide firework display 

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam celebrates New Year with enthusiasm. The city center, particularly Dam Square and Nieuwmarkt, is filled with revelers for street parties. At midnight, people light fireworks creating an intense atmosphere. Canal cruises offer premium experiences with dinner, drinks, and unobstructed firework views from the water. 

• Main airport: Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS)
• Budget: $$–$$$
• Main attractions: Anne Frank House, Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, Vondelpark
• Average Going deal: $528 roundtrip
• Special events: Street-parties around Dam Square and Nieuwmarkt, city-wide fireworks across canals, canal-cruise midnight views of fireworks

Related reading:

• Day trips from Amsterdam

Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town’s NYE blends natural beauty and festive spirit, with fireworks at the V&A Waterfront and beach parties that last all night. Clifton and Camps Bay beaches host parties with bonfires, DJs, and celebrations continuing through sunrise. The combination of mountain, ocean, and city creates a stunning natural amphitheater.

• Main airport: Cape Town International Airport (CPT)
• Budget: $$–$$$
• Main attractions: Table Mountain, V&A Waterfront, Camps Bay
• Average Going deal: $930 roundtrip
• Special events: V&A Waterfront Fireworks, Kirstenbosch Summer Concert

Tips for traveling during New Year

Book accommodations early

New Year's Eve ranks among the busiest travel nights globally. Start researching in September and book hotels by October at the latest for the best selection and rates. Keep in mind that some hotels implement minimum night requirements (2–3 nights), and some charge premiums. Browse multiple booking platforms, join loyalty programs, and consider alternative platforms for better availability. 

Safety and health recommendations

Large celebrations always require safety planning. Keep valuables in front pockets to prevent pickpocketing. Travel in groups, and establish meeting points since cell service fails in crowds. Layer appropriately if you’re visiting destinations with cold weather. And, most importantly, never drive after drinking.

Local customs and traditions

Respect, learn about, and experience local traditions to enhance your travel experience when celebrating the new year. Spain eats 12 grapes at midnight for luck. Scotland sings "Auld Lang Syne" at its birthplace. Japan focuses on temple visits on January 1st. The South eats black-eyed peas for prosperity. Tip service workers generously (25–30%), as it's their busiest night. Also, research dress codes and learn local greetings.

Use travel apps and resources

Using travel apps and digital resources can make New Year travel much smoother. Apps like Going, Google Flights, and Skyscanner help track prices and find deals, while accommodation platforms such as Booking.com, Airbnb, and HotelSlash offer availability, reviews, and member discounts. Additional apps for dining, activities, money management, and safety—like OpenTable, TripAdvisor, XE Currency, Wise, and Life360—ensure you stay organized, informed, and connected throughout your trip.

Plan your first 2026 trip with Going

Your 2026 adventure begins with a single decision: Where do you want to start the new year? Whether you're drawn to the iconic ball drop in Times Square, Sydney's harbor fireworks as the first major city to celebrate, Rio's two-million-person beach party, or an intimate celebration in a charming European city, you need to find the best flights to get there.

That's exactly where Going can help. We monitor millions of flights daily across hundreds of airlines and thousands of routes, using sophisticated algorithms combined with human expertise to identify genuine deals. Members save on domestic and international flights. Set up alerts for your departure airports, and we’ll send you notifications as soon as we find deals. Make this New Year’s Eve celebration unique with an unforgettable trip, and let Going help you get there for less.