Even though I am a huge Christmas fan and Christmas is definitely my favorite holiday, I actually also quite like New Year’s Eve. I know this holiday tends to spark a lot of controversies with people expecting the best party of their lives and sometimes a lot of pressure from family and friends to be all social and happy. What I do like about it though, is that this holiday is not about getting presents, it is all about new beginnings and changes. I also quite like that many cultures and religions do celebrate the new year in one way or another, so it feels like something a lot of people have in common.
2020 is almost over so it is a good time for me to think about how I would like to ring in the new year at some stage in my life, even if travelling is very difficult these days.
Sparke the night away in Times Square, New York
I've mostly heard horrible things about celebrating the New Year in Times Square. Yet, I still want to go and see it for myself (and then probably say everyone was right and it was horrible). Since 1907 people welcome the new year in Times Square. The way I see it is that I either have to have a lot of money in the bank (or know someone who does), so I can celebrate the spectacle from a convenient located apartment - or I have to face it, wrap myself in warm clothes, get up REALLY early and experience the party right where it happens.
Watch the Fireworks at London Eye, UK
The streets of Westminster supposedly become so crowded that they get closed, so watching the fireworks at the London Eye might be just as crowded as watching them in Times Square. However, I love London and the firework on NYE is said to be one of the most incredible firework displays in all the world, so this one is definitely on my list, too!
Take a swim at the Copacabana, Rio
Growing up in Europe, New Year's Eve has always been a rather cold affair for me. That is why I imagine it to be a truly unique experience celebrating the new year in Rio where you can head to the beach and dance to Brazilian Samba.
Victoria Harbor Fireworks, Hong Kong
Hong Kong is organizing a firework at Victoria Harbor including a countdown 60 seconds before midnight at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. Even though they are supposed to offer a spectacular show on December 31st, I would love to be there during Chinese New Year, as the show is said to be even more impressive!
“Everything’s got to end sometime. Otherwise nothing would ever get started.”
What do you think about New Years Eve? Is it one of your favorite holidays, too? Do you have any fun traditions? And what's on your bucket list for this holiday?
Kate recommends: Four strangers meet on the roof of a high building in London on New Year's Eve, each with the intent of committing suicide. Doesn't sound like a good story? It sure is. The story A Long Way Down by Nick Hornby covers the misadventures of those five people and continues accompanying them as they decide to come down from the roof alive.