Top 10 Things to Do in NYC for New Year’s Eve 2023
Are you counting down until New Year’s Eve in New York 2023? There are a tremendous number of NYC NYE events. Fortunately, we’re here to narrow the list down! Whether you choose one or more of the following events, you’ll be assured a New Year celebration in New York that you’ll never forget! Remember to firm up your plans now because you don’t want to try to book one of these New Year’s Eve NYC events at the last minute.
Where to Spend New Year’s 2023
Whether you’re a local or a tourist, being in NYC for New Year’s Eve 2023 is simply a fantastic choice! After all, when it comes to things to do for New Year’s Eve 2023, there’s no other place on earth that celebrates quite like New York City! In fact, there will be an estimated 1 million revelers on hand just to watch the ball drop in Times Square.
Of course, if you don’t want to spend the night partying with 1 million of your closest friends, there will also be everything from smaller NYC New Year’s Eve parties all the way to a New Year’s Eve cruise!
New Year’s Eve Cruise
Speaking of taking a cruise, you can be one of only 20 people to experience New Year’s Eve on a hot tub boat! The Holiday Hot Tub Boat Tour will have its last departure for the season with a New Year’s Eve cruise. Join Sea the City on this festively decorated boat, and be sure to grab your complimentary hot apple cider.
We’ll cruise around Manhattan during this 90-minute tour, including the Hudson River, the Statue of Liberty, and absolutely breathtaking skyline views. While you enjoy the sights, you’ll be warm and cozy inside one of the boat’s two hot tubs! In other words, you’ll be able to enjoy everything New York City has to offer, but you won’t have to be cold! That certainly beats showing up in Times Square at 3 p.m. and waiting outside until midnight to see the ball drop!
NYC NYE Events
If you’re looking for alternative ideas, here are some other suggestions for where to spend New Year’s 2023. Going to one of the following New Year’s Eve events in New York is certain to be a fantastic time! Make sure to book your tickets now.
1. Grand Army Plaza Fireworks
One of the biggest complaints about NYE in NYC 2023 is that everything seems to be so expensive. But did you know that you can watch an impressive fireworks display for free from Grand Army Plaza? All you have to do is reserve your spot before they run out!
To make it even more worth your while, this event kicks off at 10 p.m. with a free musical performance by Quintessential Playlist. So, you get free music and fireworks. Plus, you don’t have to show up until closer to 10 p.m. There is no greater NYE deal in the city!
2. NYRR Midnight Run
Does the idea of spending New Year’s Eve in New York City standing around or partying not appeal to you? Are you more of a “get up and go” type of person? Why not join in for a kick start to your health, instead? This annual 4-mile midnight run gives you a spectacular view of the fireworks as you make your way through the course.
Even better, finishers of the NYRR Midnight Run will be eligible to gain guaranteed entry to the 2024 TCS New York City Marathon! Make sure you have an active membership in the New York Road Runners to take advantage of this perk. NYRR Midnight Run is a free event, although if you haven’t been practicing, it could take a lot out of you.
Don’t delay as the NYRR Midnight Run is already almost at capacity!
3. Speakeasy Jazz Show at Daddy Rabbit
Feel like taking in one of the New Year’s Eve NYC events that most people don’t know about? Daddy Rabbit organizes underground jazz shows, and they’ve got big plans for their 62nd show. Held on NYE, this five-and-a-half-hour event features plenty of performers, including:
- Mark Martin
- Emily Braden
- Itai Kriss
- Samvel Sarkisyan
- Alon Near
- Misha Piatigorsky
There will also be a DJ spinning the top hits from the ‘70s-‘90s. There are two ticket choices: General Admission for $250 or VIP for $350 (which includes a guaranteed seat).
4. SPIN Midtown NYE Bash
This might be one of the best NYE parties in NYC, but it’s definitely not typical. You see, SPIN Midtown has 10 ping pong tables, and they’ll all be hopping this New Year’s Eve from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. Play as much as you want for your entrance price, and don’t forget to give their ping-pong robot a try!
Because this is NYC New Year’s Eve 2023, SPIN Midtown will offer passed appetizers, along with stationary entrees. You’ll also receive a complimentary champagne toast with chocolate-covered strawberries at midnight. Additionally, this particular bash offers food that regular people love, such as mac ‘n cheese, mini hot dogs, and tiny taco salads!
5. BALL DROP at Coney Island
We know you’re probably thinking, “Isn’t Coney Island a summertime place?” While yes, that is true, Coney Island has teamed up with Hot Fix Sideshow to put on a NYE show that’s perfect for those who like the dark side of life. For only $50, you’ll be able to enjoy multiple events:
- Darkwave Disco Dance Party (8 p.m. to 10 p.m.)
- Hot Fix Sideshow’s BALL DROP
- Sideshow performances, tattooing, live music, etc.
Then, at midnight, you’ll be able to witness a once-in-a-lifetime ball drop that has never been seen live before! This special event is open to anyone who is 18 or older.
NYC New Year’s Eve Parties
New Year’s Eve in New York 2023 is expected to break attendance records! That’s right—the pandemic may have become an endemic disease, but thanks to modern medicine, it’s definitely safe to party again! The entire city will be partying, in fact, but here are a few of our favorite options.
6. The Roxy presents New Year’s Eve
If you’re a fan of the early 1970s, be sure to head to The Roxy for NYE! Everyone will be decked out in their ‘70s-era favorites clubbing on New Year’s Eve and listening to the following:
- DJ Nina Tarr
- DJ Delphine Blue
- The Muses
- DJ Kristine Barilli
Although you’ll be transported back in time at The Roxy this year, you’ll still be able to watch the ball drop. Please be aware that because of the anticipated crowd size, all tables may become shared seating with other revelers.
7. Ellen’s Stardust Diner New Year’s Eve Party
Are you wondering what to do in New York on New Year’s Eve? There are so many options, but have you considered heading to the 1950s-themed Ellen’s Stardust Diner? This spot in Times Square gives you three floors of NYE fun. Enjoy live music by the Stardusters, a midnight champagne toast, party favors, and a delectable three-course meal!
Speaking of eating, you’ll be able to toast the New Year in style with favorites such as pan-seared salmon with wild mushrooms and lamb shank with garlic potatoes. That’s right; if you want to eat a special dinner that will remind you of why it costs $350 to get in, Ellen’s Stardust Diner has you covered!
8. Astor Court’s Gilded Age New Year’s Eve
Want to go back in time even further? Enjoy a Great Gatsby-type experience with the Astor Court’s Gilded Age New Year’s Eve party! This black-tie affair will see revelers dressed to the nines at The St. Regis. First, take your time dining as you enjoy a four-course menu. Next, take in some live entertainment and dancing. If you start to feel hungry again, never fear—there will be late-night sweet bites and savory snacks. Additionally, join in on the Champagne Sabering Ceremony.
9. Soho Grand’s 14th Annual Black & White Masquerade Ball
In 1966, Truman Capote threw an infamous Grand Masked Ball. This 14th annual event held at the Soho Grand is an ode to Capote’s party, which was held in honor of Kay Graham. Despite being almost 60 years ago, this party is still considered to be one of the 20th century’s most eclectic experiences.
Join Soho Grand as they bring this vibe back to life! There will be free-flowing champagne, tableside bottle service, hors d’oeuvres, and more. Black tie dress is mandatory, as is wearing a mask to cover the top half of your face.
10. Times Square Ball Drop View New Year’s Eve at Marriott Marquis
Be in the heart of Times Square without having to stand outside for 9+ hours! This is, by far, one of the best NYE parties in NYC. It begins with an expansive dinner buffet, followed by a dessert bar. The real reason to be at the Times Square Ball Drop View is, of course, for the view of the ball dropping in Times Square! Of course, to have this experience will require you to purchase a ticket for $3,950 or more, but it still beats standing outside.
FAQs
- Where are fireworks in NYC on New Year’s Eve?
Times Square and Grand Army Plaza. - What channel is NYC New Year’s Eve?
ABC. - Who is performing at the New Year’s Eve in NYC 2023?
Duran Duran, j-hope, New Edition, and Jax. - Where is the best place to go in New York on New Year’s Eve?
There is no single best place, but most people prefer the Times Square ball drop. - How will I spend my new year 2023?
Watching the ball drop in Times Square is an annual tradition. - Where to celebrate new year 2023?
On Sea the City’s hot tub boat cruise New Year’s Eve! - 2024 Times Square Ball Drop
Ring in 2024 by watching the ball drop in Times Square.
Book Your New Year’s Eve Cruise in NYC
Out of all the different things you could do for NYE, taking the best New Year’s Eve cruise is one of the most exclusive. Sea the City still has spots available for their hot tub boat, but they’re going fast! Book yours now!