On most nights, you can see Brooklyn from Manhattan. On New Year's Eve in Manhattan, you can’t see more than two feet in front of you—aside from the swarms of people surrounding you. While Times Square is a world-renowned tradition, one that is watched by one billion people around the world, it is not the only place to go on the last night of the year—although the crowds and hype make it seem that way.
If you are like many New Yorkers, or its tourists, you will want to see what the boroughs are like on NYE. Brooklyn is definitely worth seeing. While many locations, (including that bow-tie area known as Times Square) are filled with people elbowing each other in attempts to see fireworks, confetti and even Dick Clark, Prospect Park offers its own celebration, stress-free. Enjoy yourself at Brooklyn's biggest party, with a fun-loving crowd ready to say goodbye to 2009 at the annual Fireworks show, midnight at Grand Army Plaza.
The New Year gets off to a spirited start as fireworks over Prospect Park light up the night sky in hues of sparkling iridescent colors. Each breathtaking pyrotechnic shape brings exclamations of joy from the thousands of spectators who come out to celebrate the arrival of the New Year. The fireworks are shot off from the northern part of Prospect Park’s Long Meadow, framing the glorious Memorial Arch at Grand Army Plaza. Each year’s festivities feature new surprises, thanks to the magic of the Zambelli Fireworks Manufacturing Company. According to the event’s website, the best locations for viewing the fireworks are at Grand Army Plaza, on the Park's West Drive, and along Prospect Park West between Grand Army Plaza and 9th Street. Rooftops in Park Slope and Prospect Heights also offer prime, in-your-face fireworks viewing. Dress warmly, bring your loved ones and a hot drink, and we'll see you on New Year's Eve!
There are also plenty of nightlife events catering to those who will be venturing out into the Brooklyn streets after the stroke of midnight. From bars to loft bashes there's an endless list of parties to choose from in Brooklyn. One in particular that stands out is a warehouse rager in the Old American Can Factory. MeanRed, famous for transforming obscure spaces into all-night ragers, will be throwing this bash, so you can expect a true New Year's throwdown. The Rub, Llyodsky and Project Matt will be in the (ware)house making you sweat and helping to transform this otherwise vacant space into the party of the year.
With such a diverse population, the venues are just as assorted and accommodating; many are often left with the task of choosing one (or even a few) location(s) for their night, and it can be daunting. Even if you are able to shorten the list of possibilities, there are still chances that the admission to events and parties will be expensive or even sold out. To secure your spot and even purchase discounted tickets to Brooklyn’s many bars, clubs, lounges and live music halls, visit NewYearsEve.com.
With so many different avenues to take both in Brooklyn and for your New Year's Eve plans, you are guaranteed to find something suitable for everyone. In this exceptional city with so many different people, there are just as many activities, parties, and events catering to the individuals and groups in Brooklyn as in its louder neighbor, Manhattan.