New Year's Eve in Bangkok

 

Perhaps the most deliberately hedonistic of holidays, New Year's Eve is the culmination of the Lunar year, and time to squeeze in the last of guilty pleasures. Like everywhere else, people in Bangkok head out on the town, searching for a final fix. Seeking some culinary indulgences before the beginning of a rigorous macrobiotic diet, or one last riotous night of hard-core partying? This is the night traditionally set aside for total indulgence, to bask in all the sinful pleasures that delight us. So, break out the stilettos and hit the town, for the City of Angels - contrary to the meaning of its official name, 'Krung Thep' - harbors only heathens on New Year's Eve...

From spectacular events featuring world-class entertainment, imported DJ's spinning their stuff at the city's swanky clubs and colourful countdown celebrations, to dazzling firework extravaganzas at the riverside and raunchy pole-dancers at Go-Go parties, you'll find it all in Bangkok. 

Planning The Night

For starters, make sure you have a comfortable place to stay. Bangkok offers a great multitude of hotels, from low-cost to luxury, five-star experiences. You'll find something perfectly suited to your taste, style and budget in our accommodation section in all prime city areas - make your pick! The festive season is a busy time in the Thai capital, so avoid disappointment and make a reservation in advance. Then choose a party. Naturally, countdown events in the city's various corners will have their own character and attract different crowds, but one thing is guaranteed: wherever you go, it'll be a unique and memorable experience. No matter where you'll be, at midnight dazzling fireworks will magically light up the skies above the city. Partying continues into the early hours. And, as soon as the sun comes up, many Thai people will head to temples for merit-making - to ensure that a happy and prosperous year follows.

Countdown at CentralWorld

The biggest of countdown event in Bangkok happens in front of CentralWorld Square. With several hundred thousand revellers expected to attend, this is where it'll be happening! Leave the old year behind and welcome the new one with friends and family, spectacular light and sound shows and live on-stage performances by popular local artists. Enjoy the beer garden, lucky draws and countdown with other countries around the world on large-screen projections. Do plan to arrive at the scene at least two hours before midnight, as traffic could be disastrous around the Ratchaprasong intersection, which will be closed to all car traffic after 18:00.

Other Countdown Venues

If you fancy something more private and intimate, it's a good idea to splurge on a New Year's Eve set dinner at one of the riverside hotel restaurants or classy rooftop venues. You are not just paying for the gourmet dining experience but the atmosphere that is unrivalled anywhere else in Bangkok. And when the fireworks go off at midnight, you'll also get the best view.

Not in for the splurge? Then, head over to one of the happening clubs and bars at RCA, Silom or Khao San Road. These venues cater to the younger and more dynamic crowd, so expect some wild partying and drinking well into the night. For a classier way to ring in the New Year, go straight to Thonglor, where a lineup of outdoor hip and chic bars await you. Call well ahead to make your reservation, or you might not be able to secure a table.