If there is ever a time for a party, it is New Year’s Eve. This exciting time welcoming in the new year is a fun tradition that is celebrated differently and in fantastic ways around the world. Whether you are looking for something a bit more musical, full-on party or something where you can just hang out with your friends, these are the most fantastic New Year’s festivals 2018-19 worldwide. Time to book your tickets and start packing your bags.
1. North Pole Christmas In Ice New Year’s Eve Spectacular
Located in none other than the freezing state of Alaska, you can ring in the New Year with not just awesome fireworks that are counted down by Santa himself, but incredible ice sculptures and all the hot chocolate and food you could want.
This is a great option for the family, as it’s certainly a unique experience for children.
2. Edinburgh’s Hogmanay
If you want to ring in the New Year in this beautiful city, in Scotland, then this is the perfect option for you. This festival lasts three days leading up to New Year’s Eve and the backdrop of the stunning Edinburgh castle will only make take this party to a whole new level.
You have got DJ’s and dancing, food and fun and come time for the fireworks, you will never see a more impressive background.
3. Rio Reveillon
When it comes to festivals and parties, it is no secret that Brazil takes the cake. Therefore, it is no surprise that their New Year’s Eve party is one that will rock you to your core and leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
From dancing to delicious, traditional Brazilian food, you will see parades, clouds of colored powder being thrown in the air, live museum and come midnight, the most impressive fireworks you will ever see. There is nothing quite like it.
4. Wakakusa Yamayaki, Japan
Photo: pinterest.com
I think you can tell by the name of this festival it is in Japan, in none other than the beautiful city of Nara. This celebration goes back to the 1700s and today, you will still see the participation of the local Buddhist monks, making this all the more impressive.
With the beautiful and magical backdrop of Mount Wakakusa, this festival is sure to be unique and beautiful.
More: Here Is Why You Should Spend This Christmas in Japan
5. Sydney New Year’s Eve
Some of the best New Year’s Eve festivals have the backdrop of some of the world’s most amazing sights. In Sydney, that would be none other than the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Each year, the festival chooses a different theme, which is what the entertainment is based off before then.
From singing and dancing to theatrical performances and more, you’ll finish up the evening with a breathtaking firework display behind the bridge.
6. SaSaZu NYE, Czech Republic
This festival in Prague, Czech Republic takes on a more oriental twist. With delicious Asian-inspired dishes and beautiful, intricate lanterns, ring in the New Year in style and fun.
With confetti, balloon rains, laser shows and more, this is going to be unlike any New Year’s you have had before.
7. Tet Nguyen Dan
Located in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, this celebration lasts for days with people partying in the streets. From parades, with firecrackers, an abundance of flowers, masks and people performing something called the Unicorn Dance, this festival is sure to rival some of the world’s best festivals out there with all the colors, and the joy and the fireworks, unlike anything else.
8. Hong Kong Chinese New Year
Hong Kong is not only known for its spectacular skyline, but also this 15-day extravaganza leading up to the New Year.
From horse racing, traditional Chinese lanterns lighting up the sky to flower markets and live music, the Hong Kong New Year’s festival is up there with some of the best. You’re sure to make memories that will last forever.
More: 20 Most Peaceful Countries in the World
9. Losar, Nepal
This three-day celebration in Nepal is one of the most important times of year for the Tibetans. This will be the most religious New Year’s celebration you will ever have, with speeches from none other than the Dalai Lama himself, as well as people singing and dancing in the streets and religious ceremonies daily.
If the Dalai Lama doesn’t make New Year’s special, we do not know what does. Plus, you will not need to skip your own celebration since Losar is held at the end of January.
New Year’s is celebrated differently everywhere and the world, and while they may all ring in the new year at a different time and with a different theme, the one thing that remains the same is the feeling of joy and togetherness.
