Are you planning to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Sydney for the first time? Well, just like you, over 80,000 fans from around the world are planning to fly to Sydney! With such an energetic crowd expected, you can imagine how eventful your visit will be. Everyone will want to enjoy a unique New Year’s Eve dinner in Sydney, whether it’s on Sydney Harbor NYE Cruises or popular hotels and restaurants. Here are some tips to stay one step ahead of the third party.
plan well in advance
Usually everything is SOLD OUT in Sydney for the New Year. So don’t wait until the end of the year, book your accommodation and flights for the beginning of the year. If you want to be a part of any ticketed event, be sure to reserve that as well. Reserve your rooms for the entire stay, as they get unimaginably expensive closer to the festive season.
Check out the neighboring suburbs
If the city is too expensive for you or your preferred hotels are already booked, check out the options in the suburbs. Rooms are comparatively cheaper here and you can also escape the ‘2-3 night minimum stay condition’ that most establishments in the city have.
Choose your point of view
Choose where you’ll be viewing the most popular New Year’s event, the spectacular midnight fireworks, and plan around that. Sydney has a great selection of vantage points, both for families and groups. Find a location with easy access to and from your accommodation to minimize transportation hassles. Check the restrictions online before deciding. If your selected viewpoint is ticketed, get your tickets ASAP! If you’re ready to splurge, book a New Year’s Eve dinner cruise in Sydney Harbor for the ultimate New Year’s Eve party celebration – an experience with minimal guests and unlimited views of harbor events!
Make use of social networks
If you’re an active social media user, use your connections to find a friend who can rent you a room at a significantly cheaper price. You can also try local online boards, forums and communities for the same. Who knows, you might even be lucky enough to find a friend to host you for free!
Being well equipped for the night.
When you’re in Sydney and getting ready for the night, make sure you pack all the things you need. If you’re planning to celebrate in tune with the ‘Australian way’ of camping, bring your camping gear and food for the day. Take all the sun protection you need as you know that Australia celebrates the New Year in the summer!
PS: Please make sure your phone is fully charged. (You’ll know why as you read on)
move early
If you plan to spend the eve in one of the free places, then you need to start in the morning. Most of the observation points will have a long queue at noon. Public transport will be your best travel option. More than a thousand extra services will work for the New Year celebrations. But most times will change, so be sure to stick to the schedule. Regardless, it’s best to have a backup plan as most places will close when they reach their restricted capacity.
Don’t be scared when you see the crowd.
Around 1.6 million people flock to the port on New Year’s Eve and it’s normal to panic at the sight of the avalanche. Look for our spectator services volunteers to help you with information on restrooms, transportation, food and drink options, alcohol restrictions, and accessible services. If you are in groups, be sure to write down your plans and meeting place in case your teammates get separated. Don’t worry about taking your kids out, New Year’s Eve in Sydney is a well organized, safe and friendly event!
It’s not just about the midnight fireworks!
The celebration isn’t just about when the clock strikes twelve and fireworks light up the midnight sky. Starting at 6pm with the airshow and water tugboat display, Sydney will keep you entertained every second from sundown to the final countdown. Next is the welcome ceremony, the family fireworks show at 9:00 pm and the multiple flame and light shows. Most of the viewpoints also host many events to entertain you. With a plethora of fun events, the night is sure to be one to remember!
get out your mobile phones
Do you remember that we asked you to charge your mobile phones? Well, it’s for you to tune in to the various radio stations that play synchronized soundtracks for the 9pm and midnight fireworks. Also, join the online conversations and post your favorite photos and videos with the most popular hashtags at the biggest celebration of the year!
