10 of the best places for New Year's Eve fireworks, parties and more

From Australia to the Americas, check out 10 of the top cities to visit if you love New Year’s Eve fireworks and parties.

Are you ready to go big, bright and bold the last night of the year?

If so, these destinations around the world have a well-deserved reputation for traditionally throwing a great New Year’s Eve shindig. Music, nightlife, countdowns, parties and New Year’s food traditions are definitely a part of it, but the fireworks are the scene stealers in these spots.

Act early each year if you want to catch the prime parties and claim the best viewing areas for fireworks. Some venues charge admission, and tickets sometimes sell out months ahead.

So let’s follow midnight around the globe — here are 10 places where you can go for a New Year’s Eve you’ll never forget:

Sydney, Australia, is one of the first major international cities to greet the new year at midnight. The major fireworks display takes place at Sydney Harbour with the Opera House and Harbour Bridge providing a spectacular backdrop.

Islands in the harbour or family-friendly parks on either side offer great views. Prime viewing spots tend to book up fast. Other events earlier in the evening include ceremonies by Indigenous Australians and a show of harbor boats adorned with lights.

A bonus for Sydney: Summer’s just starting there, so you can also take advantage of the city’s beaches, including Manly, Bondi and Bronte.