2015 is slowly coming to an end which means it’s almost time for Auld Lang Syne, fireworks, and other New Year’s Eve (Hogmany, Silvester, or Calennig) traditions. These days there are so many events on you’re never sure where to go and what to do. So our question is, “what are you doing for New Year’s?” If you’re one of the many people who haven’t got a clue, why not consider a few days away? Head abroad to usher in the New Year in a totally different way to your friends and family. If this sounds like a good plan but you’re stuck for inspiration, we’ve got some unusual places to spend New Year’s Eve below. Alternatively, check out our previous Top 5 locations here.
New Year’s Eve in Iceland
When it comes to celebrations which involve bright lights and fire, Icelanders know a thing or two about putting on a good show. You’ll have to make up your own mind if you want to see the fireworks or hunt for the Aurora Borealis as the New Year is ushered in, whichever you choose though, you’re guaranteed to enjoy your stay here.
Photo by: dendron/Fotolia
If you opt for the fireworks, head up to Hallgrímskirkja where you’ll have a great view of both the church and the city when the display starts.
The evening begins with mass at Reykjavik’s tiny cathedral before Áramótaskaupið. This is a popular satirical show that lampoons celebrities, politicians, and well known businessmen. After this, people start to head out into town for the main celebrations.
Bonfires play a huge role in Iceland’s New Year’s Eve celebrations and can be traced back to the Middle Ages when people burnt items they no longer needed on brenna (bonfires). Today, each district in Reykjavik hosts a brenna, so stroll through the city and visit each one before heading to the Micro Bar on Austurstræti near the Parliament building for a few craft beers.
Other information & tips
Eating out around New Year’s can be tricky as many places close for the period in order for staff to spend time with their families. It’s best to speak to your hotel and ask if they can make a reservation to ensure you get a table.
Photo by: kanonsky/Fotolia
If you’re looking for some entertainment during the day, why not head out to sea for a spot of whale watching, visit the Golden Circle, or even make your way to the wild north? Alternatively, make you way to the Blue Lagoon and slip into the thermal waters.
For food and drink, try: Ostabudin on Skolavordustigur. Call +354 562 2772 or visit www.ostabudin.is.
2 for the price of 1 in Macedonia
Let’s face it, Macedonia probably isn’t on your list of places to see before you die but it’s your loss. It really is a beautiful country with stunning mountains, gorgeous lakes, and some wonderful traditions. One of these traditions is that they actually celebrate New Year’s Eve twice! After the festivities on December 31st, there’s a 2 week respite before it all starts again on January 13th when they celebrate Old New Year according to the old Orthodox calendar.
Photo by: outcast85/Fotolia
New Year’s Eve is celebrated with fireworks throughout the day and spending time with family either at home or in restaurants and bars. By the evening, the party atmosphere cranks up a notch with people dancing to both traditional Macedonian folk music and modern music.
Old New Year in Macedonia
Old New Year sees people gather around a huge bonfire where they drink, eat and sing traditional Macedonian music. Those who stay indoors make homemade bread with a coin hidden inside, whoever finds the coin is said to have good luck throughout the year.
Other information & tips
If you’re planning on heading to a restaurant, a booking is essential otherwise you’ll really struggle to find a table. If you can get in, try Skopski Merak on Debarca. Call + 389 232 12215 or visit www.skopskimerak.mk.
Whilst here, make sure you spend some time exploring the area around Skopje and in particular, the Aquaduct and Lake Matka.
Visiting Croatia in winter
Croatia is fast becoming a popular tourist destination so we’d recommend getting in now if you want to spend New Year’s Eve here as around 6,000 tourists are expected in Dubrovnik alone.
Come New Year’s Eve, every town and city in Croatia will host a party in the main square complete with live music and fireworks so you can take your pick. Dubrovnik is obviously one of the most visited spots and if you’re in town, you should make your way to Stradun. Here you’ll find a huge stage ready for the bands and waterfall lights on the clock tower which fall to the street at midnight.
In the build up to the main event you can choose to join in with some traditional songs and dancing or find a good spot from which to watch the fireworks display.
Photo by: astrobobo/Fotolia
If you’re in Zagreb, you’ll find the main celebrations are centred on the Ban Jelacic Square. Many of those who come to Zagreb will also be heading out to one of the nearby ski resorts such as Sljeme Mountain in the New Year. Why not join them and hit the slopes?
Other information & tips
Whilst here, why not head over to the Elafiti islands or visit the striking town of Ston on the Peljesac peninsula. Another trip worth making is to see the Plitvice Lakes in winter as everything starts to freeze over.
For food and drink, try: La Štruk on Skalinska, Zagreb. Call +385 1483 7701. If in Dubrovnik, Otto Taverna on Nikole Tesle. Call +385 20 358 633 or visit www.tavernaotto.com.
So, what are you doing for New Year’s Eve?
If you’ve got anything exciting planned or can recommend any other places to spend New Year’s Eve, get in touch below. We’d love to get some new ideas and inspiration! Also, make sure you let us know any resolutions you managed to keep or new ones you have planned.
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