There are some landmarks that draw millions of eyes from all over the world at New Year – these are the places that seem to host the world’s New Year parties. These global landmarks attract tourists all-year-round, but nothing can compare to the crowds at New Year! Shall we find out where they are?

New York Times Square,
the world-famous icon of the New Year’s Countdown

All broadcasters that broadcast New Year's Eve event cover the New Year's Eve Ball Drop at New York Times Square at least once!

This event has a long history dating back to 1907. Though it looks like a splendid fireworks event, it actually involves dropping the 365cm-diameter New Year's Eve Ball decorated with crystals and lights to count down the final seconds of the year.

The ascent of the ball starts at 6 p.m. in brilliant grandeur, yet millions of people come to New York Times Square to see New Year's Eve Ball begin its descent when New Year’s Countdown appears on the signboard together with fireworks, parades and concerts.

Fireworks display coloring the skyscrapers and riverside parks that lie on the sides of Victoria Harbor, Hong Kong

Everyone in Hong Kong is caught in a festival mood toward the end of the year. That is because of the mega-sale event held the end of each year. This event involves offering about 30-80% discount on all kinds of products, from luxurious goods to accessories and it lasts throughout the winter, with shoppers from all around the world coming to Hong Kong specifically for it. What’s more, visitors come for the New Year’s Countdown event in Hong Kong. The New Year’s Countdown event held at the Victoria Harbor is famous for the impressive firework show that colors the landmarks and skyscrapers of Hong Kong, with laser shows and cruise party held on the water. The event has grown in scale each year and it is now as big as the countdown event held at New York Times Square.

With millions of people crowding near the shore, it is better to go early and keep a seat for the show. The best spots are around Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront, the Avenue of Stars, Hong Kong cultural center, Central Harbor Front in Hong Kong Island and Central Ferry Terminal No.9 and 10.

Hogmanay Festival of the Vikings in Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, has a reputation as the city of festivals.
Since so many festivals are held here each year, including the Festival Fringe, film and jazz festivals, the city is always thronged with tourists. Yet, it is the New Year's Eve festival – aka Hogmanay – which, as the festival of the Vikings, really captures the imagination.
Starting with a Torchlight Procession on December 29 where people wear traditional Viking dress and march with torchlights in their hands, Hogmanay lasts until the dawn of the New Year's Day. It is a very important annual event for the Scots. The sight of thousands of people marching around the city with torchlights while playing bagpipe and beating drums is a truly magnificent, yet mysterious scene.



Landmarks for New Year’s Countdown!

In addition to those introduced above, many events are held around the world, showcasing the best in local culture. Though languages, traditions and cultures may change, everyone must feel the same about the beginning of New Year – at once both exciting and welcoming!

We wish you all the best and happiness in the coming year 2015! HAPPY NEW YEAR!