Top 10 New Year's Eve parties around the world

New Year’s Eve is one the rare occasions when the world comes together to celebrate at the same time – sort of.

Fireworks displays are the usual order of business, with established cities constantly competing with each other in effort to put on the best show.

Guides takes a look around the world at some of the best NYE celebrations.

1. London

The former hub of the Empire still knows how to throw a party. The night sky above the UK’s capital city on NYE is legendary, lighting up the likes of Westminster Palace, Tower Bridge and the Thames itself. In recent years the London Eye has been converted into a giant Catherine Wheel too. It remains one of the best fireworks displays.

2. Dubai

In recent years Dubai has really pushed the boat out on NYE. What started out as a humble collection of individual fireworks displays along the coastline has become a full-on national event. Dubai’s famous landmarks become the centre of attention, with Burj Khalifa making a fitting centrepiece.

3. Sydney

Owing thanks to the rotation of the planet, Sydney is one of the first major cities in the world to see in the New Year. As such it means those further back – in Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas – are all up and about to watch it on TV. Sydney Harbour Bridge and the famous opera house are the obvious centre points.

4. Las Vegas

One New Year’s Eve in Las Vegas it is often difficult to tell where the lit-up buildings end and the firework-packed sky begins. The most illuminated city in the world lights up even more of December 31 in true Vegas style. Street parades are just facet of this extraordinary party.

5. New York

Like London and Sydney, New York is one the iconic NYE party cities. The banks of the Hudson are the launching pad for one of the world’s greatest fireworks displays. New Yorkers gather in public spaces all over the city, from Central Park to Times Square. The dropping of the ball at Times Square is the iconic moment.

6. Bangkok

Bangkok is the ultimate destination for those who want to experience an unforgettable New Year’s Eve. The city paints itself in all manner of colours and people gorge at buffets in only very best hotels. The fireworks go off with a bang at midnight – visible from all over the city.

7. Paris

Hundreds of thousands line the Champs-Élysées for a view of the Eiffel Tower. Fireworks burst from the entire length of the famous pylon, lighting up the entire city. Popular gathering spots with great views include the steps of Sacré-Couer Church and the fancy Trocadéro.

8. Rio de Janeiro

Rio’s New Year’s celebration is known as “Réveillon” and is one of the world’s largest and, typically, loudest NYE parties. Millions of people line the city’s beaches throwing flowers into the sea at midnight for the African sea goddess Yemanjá, whose traditions have become mixed with the Virgin Mary. After the fireworks go off at midnight, the party usually last long into the early hours.

9. Beirut

Beirut has had an unfortunate recent history. However the once war-torn capital treats NYE as a year of promise that everything will be alright. The centrepiece is the famous Nejmeh Square Clock Tower. Built in 1933 it sits in the heart of the city and is the perfect place to enjoy an epic fireworks display.

10. Tokyo

Streets, restaurants and parks become packed quickly on NYE in Tokyo. Tradition and symbolism is the key, with many eating buckwheat noodles to ensure health and happiness for the New Year. Temples ring bells as a countdown to midnight and the start of a simply massive fireworks displays.