New Year's Eve 2014: Top 3 cities for ringing in new year
theGRIO REPORT - This year, consider bringing in the new year among the most fun and fascinating revelers of the world in some of the most incredible cities in the country...
With the holiday season making its way upon us, it’s never too soon to plan your New Year’s Eve celebration. This year, consider bringing in the new year among the most fun and fascinating revelers of the world in some of the most incredible cities in the country.
From brilliant firework displays, to energetic celebrity performances, we compiled a list of the top three most enticing places around the country to bring in the new year. So, after you deck the halls, or light that seventh candle on the kinara, you might want to make your way to one of these three exciting New Year’s Eve celebrations.
New York City: The magic is in the crystal ball
With this event being broadcast live to millions of people all over the world, it is no surprise that New Year’s Eve in Times Square has become a global celebration.
Arguably one of the most electrifying places to bring in the new year, New York City promises a night full of dazzling lights, eclectic festivities and unforgettable memories. There is nothing more spectacular than being in the middle of captivating vignettes, live performances from your favorite musical artists and the awe-inspiring descent of the 12-foot sparkling crystal ball at the stroke of midnight.
The New Year’s Eve Ball Drop is by far the highlight of the night and an old tradition of the city dating back to 1907. The brisk breeze and bustling energy in the air brings a welcoming sense of unity as thousands of people flock to the heart of the Big Apple to count down the last ten seconds of the year. Everyone comes together to celebrate new beginnings, new hopes and new adventures for the upcoming year.
Once the clock strikes twelve, experience a stunning shower of sparkling confetti sprinkling from the sky and a dramatic fireworks display. This is the moment you can steal a kiss from your significant other, or shed a tear of joy for making it to another year. In typical New York fashion, expect to meet many new friends and experience a thrilling celebration of a lifetime.
Getting there: Many streets around Times Square are blocked off to only accommodate pedestrian traffic. Driving is not recommended. Suggested means of getting to Times Square are taxicabs or the transit system. You will also need to arrive early, and plan to stand for several hours.
Perfect for: Couples, best friends, groups of friends and family, particularly young people.
New Orleans: Celebrating from the Mississippi river to the Quarter
Known for its annual Mardi Gras carnival, New Orleans needs no introduction as a city that knows how to throw an exceptional celebration. From the world-renowned French Quarters, to the majestic streets of Jackson Square, hundreds of visitors come to town every year looking to bring in the new year with a bang.
Besides its mouthwatering jambalaya, the Big Easy is known for having the best New Year’s Eve fireworks display in the country. Similar to New York’s crystal ball in Times Square, along with fireworks, the city’s famous Fleur de Lis drops in this party town right in the heart of Jackson Square at seconds to midnight.
As soon as the clock strikes twelve, expect a tremendous display of booming colors brightening up the sky right over the Mississippi River nearby, visible from all over the French Quarter.
With its warm temperatures, and sizzling live performances going on until the wee hours of the morning, bringing in the new year in the Crescent City will definitely be one to remember.
Getting there: Many streets around Jackson Square are blocked off to only accommodate pedestrian traffic. Driving is not recommended. Suggested means of getting around are taxicabs or by foot. Plus, it is important to book early. Rooms in the region fill up fast for the holidays and football games in January.
Perfect for: Couples, best friends, groups of friends and family. People of all ages can enjoy this experience, but as the city is known for drinking and partying, it is wise to plan accordingly.
Las Vegas: You’ll be dancing in the streets!
The decadence capital of the world promises a celebration unmatched by any other city in the country. Hundreds of thousands of people make their way to this “Sin City” in the desert annually for what some may call the country’s biggest block party for New Year’s Eve.
From the dazzling Vegas Strip, all the way to Freemont Street, expect to celebrate on jam-packed streets. Marvel at dynamic pyrotechnic firework showcases that light up the sky and jam out to live music from some of the most famous musicians in the world.
Although it’s usually frigid this time of year, the warmhearted energy, stolen kisses at Caesar’s Palace, aquatic displays at the Bellagio and the extensive dancing opportunities will make this celebration one for the history books!
Arrive early to the strip, as it gets very packed by 9 p.m. The numerous hotel events can have you spending thousands of dollars, so if this past year has been good to you, consider taking the party indoors to many of the world-famous hotels where the champagne is flowing and the celebrity sightings are abundant.
Be sure to plan early! There’s one thing you can confidently bet on. Bringing in the new year in Las Vegas will definitely be a non-stop and unforgettable experience.
Getting there: The streets around the famed Las Vegas strip are blocked off to cars. Therefore, driving is not recommended. Suggested means of getting to the center of the action are taxicabs or by foot.
Perfect for: Couples, best friends and groups of friends. Las Vegas has become friendly to seniors in recent years, so is a great destination to consider for the older set.
Wanjira Banfield writes about travel and entertainment for theGrio. You can find her at www.wanjirasworld.com and follow her on Twitter @wanjirasworld.
You Might Like
