New Year in Australia

Few countries in the world throw a party worth of the occasion quite like what they put together for New Year in Australia. Owing to its spot as one of the first places to celebrate on January 1st, much of the planet is able to awaken to have the sights and sounds of the big party Down Under inspire others. The great weather and calm seas in Australian ports makes it an attractive location to visit as the calendar turns over from one year to the next, but is a warm night and beautiful bays all you’ll see? Of course not! If you’re planning a visit, here are some of the highlights for the major cities:

Sydney

The capital is among the earliest major cities to pop the bubbly on January 1st and, thanks to ingenious planning over the years, it creates one of the most memorable sights: Harbour Bridge becomes a huge launching pad for a fireworks show that nearly turns night to day over the iconic Opera House. Viewers can reserve a spot on one of the many evening cruises in the water of Darling Harbour or grab a table at a seaside restaurant, then spend the early morning hours reveling with locals and travelers alike.

Melbourne

Much like Sydney, Melbourne turns New Year’s Eve into an attempt to throw the biggest party in the world. Though you will find an extravagant fireworks display on the wharf, there is a greater emphasis here on experiencing all the city’s thumping dance clubs and swanky bars have to offer. See if you can get a spot at one of the hotels on Victoria Harbour – chances are good you’ll be able to catch a glimpse of the colors exploding overhead while enjoying all the glamour of a top-notch celebration.

Brisbane

“Brissy” is a favorite for those looking for a more adult flair to their celebration. You’ll find plenty of opportunities to bounce from bar to bar if you like, or you could settle in at a Portside locale for a racy evening filled with cocktails and great food. Nightclub owners go all out to create different experiences in each place – you might have a burlesque theme next door to an elegant evening gown competition, for example, all while downing glass after glass of excellent Australian wine.

Adelaide

Known for being a (relatively) low-key place to go compared to other large cities, this is the ideal place for beach lovers to spread out a blanket and build a bonfire. You’ll certainly find establishments with entertainment on offer – PJ O’Brien’s Irish Pub is a local favorite – but those who are in the mood for an evening with Mother Nature will want nothing more than to hear the ocean lap up against the shore as the sky lights up and the bells ring in the New Year.

Perth

Set on the western coast of Australia, this city is the last large metropolis in the country to have the clock strike twelve. As you might expect, it has a variety of offerings for people of all tastes. You can walk down the street and see a relaxed Hawaiian beach party set up a few steps from a stylish masquerade ball. Or, if you are in the mood for something in between, you can purchase a package from a sleek modern hotel like The Byrneleigh – you’ll have food, champagne, wine, and beer in one location!