10 Best Places for South Africans to Ring in the New Year
When the countdown begins, where will you be?
Whether you’re dancing under the stars, watching fireworks light up an iconic skyline, or sipping cocktails by the beach, New Year’s 2025 is the perfect excuse to pack your bags. From local celebrations to once-in-a-lifetime international parties, here’s your ultimate guide to the best places to spend New Year’s Eve.
If you’ve ever wondered where is best to go on holiday for New Year’s, or which locations are famous for New Year’s Eve celebrations, this guide covers both – with a mix of beach bliss, city energy, and global glamour.
4 Key Takeouts
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Global celebrations: From the fireworks of Dubai to beach parties in Rio, discover where to spend New Year’s Eve around the world.
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Local favourites: Find the best New Year’s getaways right here in South Africa, from Cape Town to Knysna.
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Travel confidence: Unsure if it’s a good idea to travel on New Year’s Eve? We share when and how to plan your trip smartly.
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Expert help: Thompsons will match you with New Year’s Eve getaway packages that suit your budget, style, and travel needs.
1. Cape Town, South Africa
When it comes to where to spend New Year’s Eve in South Africa, Cape Town easily tops the list. The city buzzes with open-air concerts, fireworks at the V&A Waterfront, and beach parties stretching from Camps Bay to Clifton. For something unique, head to Signal Hill with a picnic and panoramic views as the city lights up at midnight. You can also join the Cape Minstrel Carnival on January 2 – a celebration unlike any other. Thompsons can help you book your Cape Town accommodation, from luxury waterfront hotels to chic guesthouses that won’t break the bank.
Fun fact: Cape Town’s fireworks display is timed perfectly with the Table Mountain backdrop – making it one of the most photographed New Year’s Eve celebrations in Africa.
2. Bangkok, Thailand
Bangkok is where culture meets chaos – in the best way possible. As one of the most famous places for New Year’s Eve, it’s known for its riverside fireworks, rooftop countdowns, and massive street parties. CentralWorld hosts a Times Square-style celebration complete with a light show, live music, and confetti cannons. Meanwhile, Wat Arun temple glows across the Chao Phraya River, offering a serene contrast to the city’s energy.
Travel tip: If you’re wondering where the best place is to vacation for New Year, Bangkok offers incredible value for South Africans. Thompsons can connect you with New Year’s Eve Thailand packages including flights, hotels, and transfers – all tailored to your budget.
3. Durban, South Africa
If you’re craving an endless summer, Durban’s beachfront is the ultimate New Year’s getaway. The city’s famous Golden Mile comes alive with beach parties, fireworks, and live DJ sets that last until sunrise. Families can enjoy braais and picnics on the sand while the more adventurous try late-night surfing under floodlights.
Interesting idea: Durban often hosts lively events, complete with foam parties and glow-in-the-dark parades. It’s local, lively, and fun – a great choice if you prefer staying within South Africa. Thompsons will help you find the right Durban hotel or beachfront apartment for your celebration.
4. New York City, USA
If your bucket list includes the legendary Times Square ball drop, then New York City is your answer to which location is famous for New Year’s Eve. Join the crowd counting down as the glittering ball descends or skip the crowds with a rooftop dinner overlooking Manhattan. You can also catch fireworks in Central Park or head to Brooklyn Bridge for a stunning skyline view.
Insider’s tip: Flying a day before New Year’s Eve helps avoid the chaos of holiday travel and gives you time to explore the city. Thompsons can create a complete New Year’s Eve New York getaway package that covers everything – from Broadway tickets to your stay near Times Square.
5. Knysna, South Africa
For a relaxed New Year’s 2025 celebration, Knysna offers something truly special. The lagoon reflects fireworks as locals and visitors gather at waterfront restaurants for live music and sundowners. Charter a boat for a private lagoon cruise or enjoy the family-friendly festivities at Thesen Island.
Why it’s great: Knysna’s calm energy makes it ideal if you want to escape big city crowds while still celebrating in style. Thompsons can help arrange your Garden Route coastal stay and local experiences that fit your travel budget.
6. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Rio’s Réveillon celebration on Copacabana Beach is world-famous. Over two million people – all dressed in white – gather for music, dancing, and ocean offerings to the goddess of the sea. It’s one of the most electric New Year’s Eve celebrations on the planet and a must if you want to party with the world.
Good to know: The dress code isn’t just for show – wearing white in Brazil symbolises peace and renewal. Whether you want a beachfront hotel or a lively local experience, Thompsons can match you with the best New Year’s Rio de Janeiro package to suit your travel style.
7. Johannesburg, South Africa
If you’re asking where to spend New Year’s Eve in South Africa beyond the coast, Johannesburg delivers. Think rooftop countdowns in Maboneng, pool parties in Sandton, and chic soirées in Melrose Arch. For a more relaxed atmosphere, book a spa weekend in Magaliesburg or a lodge escape in the Cradle of Humankind.
Local highlight: Joburg’s skyline lights up at midnight with fireworks from Sandton to Soweto, while rooftop bars host lively countdowns. Thompsons can help you plan your perfect New Year’s Joburg getaway right at home.
8. Dubai, UAE
Dubai’s skyline lights up with one of the most extravagant fireworks shows in the world. From the Burj Khalifa to Palm Jumeirah, the entire city sparkles at midnight. Beyond the fireworks, you can attend glamorous desert galas, rooftop dinners, or yacht parties with front-row views of the celebration.
Interesting touch: Dubai even hosts synchronised drone shows alongside the fireworks – blending tech, art, and celebration in spectacular style. Thompsons will tailor your New Year’s Eve Dubai package to include luxury experiences that fit your budget.
9. London, England
London’s fireworks along the River Thames are legendary. Watch Big Ben strike midnight, see the London Eye illuminated, or enjoy the view from a cruise on the Thames. After the fireworks, join locals in pub celebrations or take a nighttime walk across Tower Bridge as the city buzzes with energy.
Travel idea: Extend your stay to enjoy London’s New Year’s Day Parade – one of the largest in the world, featuring performers, dancers, and marching bands. Thompsons can bundle your flights, hotel, and event tickets into one easy New Year’s Eve London holiday package.
10. Maldives
Dreaming of a New Year’s Eve that’s peaceful yet luxurious? The Maldives offers barefoot celebrations under the stars. Many resorts host gala dinners on the beach, complete with live music and champagne toasts. For a more romantic touch, book a sunset cruise or a candlelit dinner on a private sandbank.
Did you know? Some Maldives resorts release floating lanterns at midnight – a beautiful way to welcome the new year with hope and light. Thompsons can find the right New Year’s getaway package for your needs, from all-inclusive resorts to intimate island escapes.
Is it a good idea to travel on New Year’s Eve?
It can be – but timing is key. Flights on New Year’s Eve itself are often cheaper and less crowded than those the day before. However, arriving at your destination early gives you more time to relax and enjoy the celebrations. Thompsons can help you plan your journey strategically to make sure you start New Year’s 2026 stress-free.
Ready to Make New Year’s 2025 Special?
Whether you’re drawn to Cape Town’s fireworks, Rio’s beach celebrations, or Dubai’s glittering skyline, there’s no shortage of places to go for New Year’s. Each destination offers its own magic – and with Thompsons, planning your trip couldn’t be easier.
Our experts will match you to the best New Year’s Eve getaway packages that fit your budget, answer your questions, and take care of every detail. Start 2026 the right way – with a trip worth celebrating.
