Every December 31, revelers from all over the world ring in the new year and make a fresh start as the clock strikes midnight and the calendar turns to January. Because of the different time zones around the globe, the arrival of the new year comes at varying times depending on where you are.
This means that you can make your New Year’s Eve celebration special by shifting your own time zone. Whether you want to be the first or last one to start the new year, here are the most extreme places to celebrate New Year’s Eve.
Queenstown, New Zealand
The First Places to Celebrate the New Year
Christmas Island
There’s an old Andrews Sisters number that goes, “How’d you like to spend Christmas on Christmas Island?” And while that would certainly be lovely, you might also want to hang around for New Year’s Eve. Because the lovely, tropical Christmas Island is distinguished as being the first inhabited place in the world to see the arrival of the new year. Christmas Island is located in the South Pacific and is also known as Kiritimati Island. It’s the largest island in the Republic of Kiribati, which is part of Samoa. The tropical vibe makes it a great place to spend the holidays if you’re looking for a little relaxation. Enjoy celebrating this December with fireworks displays, traditional cultural celebrations, and more.
New Zealand
New Zealand is another popular holiday destination if you want bragging rights about being one of the first people in the world to toast to new beginnings. New Zealand is a great choice if you’re looking for a more urban experience. Head to lively Queenstown for a wide array of parties, bar crawls, and even a fireworks extravaganza. Or, kick back by planning an outdoor adventure. Take advantage of New Zealand’s stunning natural scenery and the fact that it’s summer this time of the year in the Southern Hemisphere.
Honolulu, Hawaii
The Last Places to Celebrate the New Year
Hawaii or Tahiti
Want to put off celebrating the new year until the last possible moment? Then check out Tahiti or Hawaii. Both of these locations offer warm weather, gorgeous beaches, and swaying palm trees. Whether you’re looking for a party scene or something more relaxed, each Hawaiian island features its own special way to celebrate the occasion. Or, you can head to exotic Tahiti, the largest island of French Polynesia. This tropical paradise is best known for its unique black-sand beaches, cascading waterfalls, a pair of volcanoes, and a welcoming island vibe. Live it up with a New Year’s party at your five-star resort or chill out with a quiet celebration on the beach. Either way, you can’t go wrong when you’re ending the year with a celebration in Tahiti.
American Samoa
As the final inhabited place on the planet to ring in the new year, American Samoa is an ideal choice to mark the new beginning. This lush group of volcanic islands is located approximately 2,500 miles south of Hawaii. American Samoa is also the only inhabited U.S. territory positioned south of the equator. The urban center of Pago Pago is an ideal home base for your New Year’s festivities. Pago Pago is the perfect balance of a modern harbor juxtaposed with the ancient culture of these traditional island natives.
It should be noted that the last places on Earth to transition to the year are Baker Island and Howland Island. However, since both of these islands are uninhabited, you would be wise to choose American Samoa, Tahiti, or Hawaii as your travel destination.
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FAQs:
Q: What is the typical weather like in Christmas Island during New Year’s Eve?
A: Christmas Island enjoys a tropical climate. Around New Year’s Eve, expect warm temperatures, averaging around 28°C (82°F), with occasional rain showers. It’s ideal for outdoor celebrations and beach activities.
Q: Are there any special cultural events on New Year’s Eve in New Zealand?
A: Yes, New Zealand hosts various cultural events on New Year’s Eve, including traditional Maori performances, street festivals, and music concerts. Cities like Auckland and Queenstown offer vibrant celebrations reflecting New Zealand’s rich cultural heritage.
Q: What kind of New Year’s celebrations can I find in Hawaii?
A: Hawaii offers a range of New Year’s Eve celebrations, from lively beach parties and firework displays to more intimate gatherings at resorts. Each island has its unique festivities, including traditional Hawaiian music, hula dancing, and special dining experiences.
Q: Is it necessary to book accommodations in advance for Tahiti’s New Year’s Eve?
A: Yes, it’s highly recommended to book accommodations well in advance for New Year’s Eve in Tahiti. The island is a popular destination, and hotels and resorts can fill up quickly, especially for oceanfront and luxury accommodations.
Q: Can you recommend family-friendly activities for New Year’s Eve in American Samoa?
A: American Samoa is great for families, offering beach picnics, cultural tours, and local village festivities. The National Park of American Samoa provides a beautiful setting for outdoor activities like hiking and wildlife spotting, ideal for families.
Q: Are there any travel restrictions or special requirements for visiting these destinations during the New Year period?
A: Travel requirements can vary by destination and change over time. It’s important to check the latest travel advisories, visa requirements, and health guidelines for your chosen destination. Always ensure your travel documents are up to date.
Q: How can I experience local traditions while celebrating New Year’s Eve in these destinations?
A: To immerse yourself in local traditions, participate in community events, try traditional foods, and interact with locals. Many places have unique customs and ceremonies for New Year’s Eve, which can be a memorable part of your celebration.
Where do you plan to celebrate New Year’s this year? Tell us in the comments below!
