New Year’s Eve is right around the corner, which means it’s time to decide how you want to spend that exciting transition into a new year. If you’re looking to travel somewhere special for your New Year’s celebration, the United States offers a variety of festive and lively options that cater to diverse interests and travelers. From dazzling fireworks displays to outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities, you’re sure to find a fantastic New Year’s event perfect for you.

For City Lovers and Night Owls

Can’t imagine ringing in the new year anywhere other than an iconic city brimming with energy and excitement? Then you’ll want to flock to one of these legendary New Year’s Eve celebrations in three of the nation’s biggest metropolises:

• Times Square Ball Drop (New York City): Join over one million lively spectators in Times Square and watch the crystal ball descend at midnight amid flashy lights, live entertainment from top musicians and Broadway stars, and wild celebrations across the city that never sleeps.

• Las Vegas Strip (Las Vegas, NV): Las Vegas pulls out all the stops with extravagant parties hosted by celebrities at its nightclubs and venues, capped with dazzling midnight fireworks along the neon-lit Strip.

• First Night Boston (Boston, MA): Experience live performances from local artists, ice sculptures carved before your eyes, and spectacular city-wide festivities at this lively alcohol-free New Year’s festival held in indoor and outdoor locations throughout Beantown.

Outdoor Enthusiasts and Thrill Seekers 

Get your adventurous fix surrounded by natural beauty or take the “polar bear plunge” into icy waters with these exhilarating outdoor New Year’s celebrations:

• Polar Bear Plunge (Coney Island, NYC): Brave souls take a quick dip in the freezing Atlantic Ocean on New Year’s Day with costumes and parades adding to the excitement of this teeth-chattering event.

• Rose Parade (Pasadena, CA): Watch lavish flower floats smelling of fresh blooms, marching bands, and skillful horseback riders parade through the streets, followed by the Rose Bowl football game on New Year’s Day.

Millennial Couples and Friends

Dance, mix, and mingle at these exciting New Year’s parties and celebrations perfect for travelers in their 20s and 30s:

• New Year’s Eve Pub Crawl (Denver, CO): Ring in the new year by bar and club hopping during this lively downtown Denver pub crawl offering drink specials and no cover charges.

• Music City Midnight (Nashville, TN): If music is your groove, make your way to the Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park to hear famous artists and bands headline at the main stage for free. Just don’t leave before the famous music note drops at midnight.

Families with Kids

Let the little ones in on the festive fun at these family-friendly New Year’s events:

• Christmas Boat Parade (Newport Beach, CA): Watch sparkling boats decorated with colorful lights cruise along the harbor, capped with an earlier 9 PM fireworks show that little ones will love.

• First Night Alexandria (Alexandria, VA): Delight in circus performances under the big top, ice skating outdoors, and live entertainment starting late afternoon, with fireworks at early evening bedtimes perfect for families.

No matter your interests or who you’re traveling with, you’re sure to have an unforgettable New Year’s celebration at one of these festive events happening across the United States this holiday season. Contact your Covington vacation advisor today and stay tuned for more 2024 travel inspiration!