What to do with New Year's Eve
New Year's Eve stress, who doesn't know it? Around mid-November, the first plans start to take shape. Who does what with whom and where? A lot of scheming, compromises, and FOMO can arise from this. Especially for singles and people without children, it can be quite challenging. The easiest thing might be to just get drunk and fall asleep at 10 PM, like I did a few years ago. Last year, I ended up at a small party with a fairy tale theme. I only knew exactly two people beforehand, but by the end of the night, everyone was each other's best friend. But I have also experienced a particularly gloomy New Year's Eve with an ex. We thought it would be a fun idea to spend the Wonderful Evening for adults abroad. There we were, just the two of us, feeling quite sad in the hotel bar.
In short, choose your New Year's Eve party wisely. And if you need some inspiration: here are a few ideas.
New Year's Eve at Efteling
Yes, you read that right: Efteling is open on New Year's Eve from 7 PM to 1 AM. Surrounded by elves and flying carpets, you can dance, visit the attractions, and enjoy a dinner. After the fireworks show at midnight, you continue the party at the Efteling Hotel. This sounds super fun to me, but unfortunately, this event is completely sold out. Maybe it will work out this way.
De Ceuvel
Do you know De Ceuvel in Amsterdam-Noord? They call themselves a ‘playground for innovation and creativity’, but believe me, fun parties are also organized here. Like also on New Year's Eve. You start with a three-course dinner with a kombucha arrangement (if you don't know what that is, click here), and afterwards you can dance until the early hours of the morning. Decorative fireworks included.
Hyte Berlin
I would do this just because it sounds so insider: to a techno party by Hyte at Funkhaus Berlin. I was checking the lineup and I must honestly admit that I don't know any of the DJs, but maybe that's a plus. One thing I do know: this is not for the faint-hearted. I say: take a pill and go.
Confetteria
Funny enough, in many countries, New Year's Eve is not celebrated on New Year's Eve, but on January 1st. Alter Ego organizes on January 1st Confetteria, an extravagant event where you must come in costume. What can you expect? Lots of exotic birds, music of varying quality, and of course, kilos of confetti that you'll find in your butt crack for days.
Tik Tak
I would be very unhappy here myself, but I know there are plenty of people who love Dutch rappers, so… another idea. In five cities, you can go wild at the Tik Tak parties with artists like Broederliefde, Josylvio, and Lil Kleine.
The Euromast
It promises to be a stylish party in Rotterdam. What do you think of New Year's Eve at the Euromast? You start with a four-course dinner and then party until the early hours. There is no better place to watch the fireworks than at a hundred meters high, it seems to me.
Yoga retreat in Groningen
You can also take a completely different approach. In the green heart of Northeast Groningen lies the Land van Nu. In this retreat center, you can totally do yoga under the guidance of a singing bowl, entering the fresh 2019. Seems very nice if you don't feel like hassle and want to be zen with yourself.
