If you are going to be celebrating the New Year in Thailand, you may wonder which part of the country is the best choice for your celebrations. Or perhaps you already know where you will be staying but are unsure what the best options are for the big night. Well, Bangkok local Stephen Christopher has seen in the New Year from a few different cities in Thailand and shares his tips with us below.
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If you are wondering where to celebrate a remarkable New Year‘s Eve in Thailand, fear not; you’re spoiled for choice. You may find yourself under a rain of fireworks on a bustling Bangkok street or potentially dancing your way into the new year on an idyllic beach on an island like Ko Samet, Koh Pha Ngang, or Phuket.
Celebrating New Year in Thailand
I’m going to take you on a quick journey around Thailand, starting in Bangkok and then heading south. I’ll highlight my favourite ways to ring in the new year. At the end of each destination, you’ll find my insider tips from someone who’s seen my fair share of NYE celebrations in Thailand.
I’ve been in Thailand for over seven years and am about to attend my eighth NYE party. There really is something for everyone, and I hope you find what you’re looking for in my guide.
Where to go in Bangkok on NYE
If you plan on spending your New Year’s Eve in Thailand, Bangkok is a great choice. While the Chao Phraya River is where most locals and tourists flock, there are alternatives like dancing the night away on a rooftop bar or partying hard at centralwOrld or Khao San Road.
Let’s start with the festivities along the Chao Phraya River. Fireworks at midnight are the main attraction, so why not begin the night at a riverside hotel serving exquisite cuisine? Most hotels and restaurants have a NYE package, which includes food, champagne, and exclusive views of the fireworks.
ICONSIAM Countdown 2025
The party starts early at ICONSIAM with a 3 day festival kicking off on 29 December. This year’s celebration features an unprecedented 1,400-meter display using innovative eco-friendly fireworks crafted from glutinous rice – a world-first combining Thai ingenuity with environmental consciousness.
Be part of history as Thailand attempts to set a new record with its longest-ever New Year’s fireworks display.
Watch as 50,000 fireworks illuminate the riverside in a dazzling choreographed performance, while enjoying live concerts and cultural shows throughout the evening at ICONSIAM’s River Park. This stunning waterfront location provides the perfect vantage point for Bangkok’s most ambitious countdown celebration.
Early arrival recommended due to expected high attendance. Find out more
Hotels that will have good views of the ICONSIAM fireworks include Royal Orchid Sheraton, Millennium Hilton, Shangri-La, Peninsula, and Lebua.
Nagaraphirom Park (Wat Arun) Celebration
Welcome the new year with a spectacular celebration set against the illuminated backdrop of Wat Arun, Bangkok’s iconic Temple of Dawn. This enchanting riverside event combines Thailand’s rich cultural heritage with contemporary entertainment at the historic Nagaraphirom Park along the Chao Phraya River.
Experience the magic of traditional Khon dance performances and the masterful puppetry of the Joe Louis Puppet Theatre. As evening falls, let the Chao Phraya Symphony Orchestra transport you with their classical melodies, accompanied by Thailand’s leading contemporary performers.
The celebration reaches its peak with an extraordinary nine-act fireworks display, each segment running for seven minutes, creating a mesmerizing spectacle over the river and temple skyline.
Experience the magic of Wat Arun’s New Year’s Eve fireworks display from these prime viewing locations along the Chao Phraya River.
Free public viewing areas for the Wat Arun fireworks
- Nagaraphirom Park – Located directly opposite Wat Arun, this spacious park offers some of the best front-row views of the illuminated temple and fireworks display. Early arrival essential.
- Riva Arun Pier – A hidden gem near Supanniga Eating Room, this lesser-known spot provides unobstructed views without the major crowds. Perfect for photographers seeking that perfect shot.
- Wang Lang Market – A more casual option combining local street food with riverside views.
Free viewing areas will become crowded early in the evening.
Restaurants with great views of Wat Arun fireworks
- The Deck by Arun Residence – Fine dining with front-row seats to the spectacle. Multi-course New Year’s Eve dinner available.
- Sala Rattanakosin Rooftop – Celebrate in style at this chic rooftop bar offering craft cocktails and panoramic views.
- Chakrabongse Palace– Experience royal elegance with outdoor dining in a historic setting.
- ViVi Coffee Place – Budget-friendly café with excellent viewing angles.
All venues with dining options require advance reservations for New Year’s Eve.
centralwOrld NYE Celebrations
The street party in front of centralwOrld is where the young party crowd goes for New Year’s Eve. There are live DJs on rotation, street food of all kinds, and vendors selling NYE gear; snap up some flashing headbands or sparkly date sunglasses and dive right into the party atmosphere.
Experience Thailand’s biggest New Year celebration featuring an all-star lineup of Asia’s most dynamic performers. This 10-day entertainment extravaganza showcases the next generation of Thai artists, including beloved duo Billkin-PP, Zee-Nunu, and breakthrough acts like PROXIE, PIXXIE, and Three Man Down.
The grand finale on December 31 features the ‘Countdown Angels’ Freen-Becky and Ling-Orm in a special performance, set against Central World’s stunning PanOramix screen – a massive 3,790-square-metre digital canvas. As midnight approaches, witness a breathtaking 180-degree fireworks display that lights up the Bangkok skyline.
Leading up to the main event, enjoy daily performances from December 21-30 featuring popular artists including Whal & Dolph, LANDOKMAI, and DICE.
Special feature: The PanOramix screen, one of the largest digital displays in Asia, combines state-of-the-art graphics with immersive sound and lighting effects. Find out more
Want something a little less crowded? Head to one of the centralwOrld rooftop bars like Red Sky Bar or CRU Champagne bar if your budget allows. Prices from THB 9,955++ per person.
New Year’s Eve Chao Phraya River cruises
Another option is to join a dinner cruise on the river. You’ll sail down, eating delicious food coupled with live entertainment. Just before midnight, the boat will berth in a top location for premium fireworks.
If you just want to join the countdown, several riverside hotels have a last-minute viewing package. One year, I paid 1,000 baht at 11pm. It included a glass of bubbly and access to the river in front of Icon Siam, where the fireworks were let off. If you have nothing planned it’s worth a try.
Sky High Celebrations in Bangkok
Take a trip to the city’s rooftop bars and party with some of the world’s most renowned DJs. Sathorn and Sukhumvit areas have some of the best rooftop bars in Bangkok; some are 30+ floors up. With many offering 360° views, you’ll get a birds-eye view of the fireworks from the river at midnight.
INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit
Welcome 2025 in On Nut with an unforgettable celebration at INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok across its stunning top-floor venues.
The hotel is presenting two options:
LUZ Bangkok Tapas Bar – Perched on the 33rd and 34th floors, the is the place for an extraordinary dining experience with floor-to-ceiling windows framing Bangkok’s glittering skyline. Madrid-born Chef Juan Ignacio García Racionero has crafted an exclusive five-course New Year’s Eve menu that celebrates authentic Spanish cuisine. Guests can choose between two intimate dinner sessions (6-8pm or 9-11pm), with optional wine pairing to enhance their culinary journey.
- LUZ Bangkok Tapas Bar: THB 5,500++ per couple (includes countdown party access)
- Countdown Party Entry: THB 1,500 net (includes sparkling wine)
- VIP Lounge Tables: From THB 15,000 (minimum spend)
The Giant Swing Pool Bar, a architectural marvel inspired by Bangkok’s historic Brahman structure, transforms as day turns to night. This unique venue features a transparent infinity pool that creates a mesmerizing overhead spectacle for tapas bar guests below. The expansive rooftop terrace, with its Ibiza-inspired lounges and sunbeds, sets the stage for the hotel’s glamorous “Sparkle and Glitter” countdown party.
Live DJs will set the mood from 6pm until 1am, while guests enjoy premium beverages and unparalleled views of Bangkok’s fireworks display. VIP lounge packages offer an exclusive experience for groups seeking an extra special celebration.
If you are looking for a more relaxed dining experience, The Kites Eatery presents lavish New Year’s Eve buffet and New Year’s Day brunch options, featuring international cuisines against the backdrop of Bangkok’s urban landscape.
The Kites Eatery’s New Year’s Eve Dinner including free-flow soft drink is THB 2600++ per adult, and THB 1300++ per child under 12 years of age. Additional free-flow package per buffet inclusive of Spanish wines and local beer is THB 1600++ per person.
For reservations: melia.com | [email protected] | +66 2 340 5499
More rooftop options
My two favourite rooftop bars are the one at SO/ Bangkok and Vertigo Bar, which is on the 63rd floor of the Banyan Tree Hotel in Sathorn. Others you might like to consider include; Avani Riverside’s Seen Bar, Sky Bar at Lebua Hotel, Bar Yard at Kimpton Maa- Lai or OJO at the Standard.
Other Shopping Malls in Bangkok
Many of the large malls in Bangkok host family friendly concerts that run from 6pm until just after midnight. Check out: Asiatique or Emquartier who will host parties on the 31st.
Khao San Road on NYE
The former backpacker haven has been transformed into the ultimate party street for every adult, every day. On New Year’s Eve, it’s business as usual, with every bar keen to get you in their doors. The only difference is that at the south end of the street, a stage is set up with a giant screen that’ll livestream the fireworks at midnight.
Insider tips for spending NYE in Bangkok
- No matter where you go in Bangkok, it will be crowded. So, plan your night accordingly. As for getting home, expect that to take longer than usual. Grab will apply a peak surcharge of up to 400% on fares, so be prepared for that as well.
- If you stay near a BTS or MRT station, those services will operate until 2 am on New Year’s Eve to assist people trying to get out of the city. It may even be worth moving your accommodation closer to one of these just for this reason.
- Some hotels along the river will include a compulsory New Year’s Eve dinner in your reservation. As you’ve paid for it, take advantage of it. These guests get priority seating in the best viewing locations.
Spending New Year’s in Phuket
Phuket is a fun place to ring in the New Year. Most people flock to the beach, but it’s not the only place to party.
NYE Beach Parties in Phuket
The island’s largest beach, Patong, is renowned for its vibrant NYE celebrations. Start your evening on the sandy beach, cocktail in hand, basking in the glow of the setting sun. Then, as midnight approaches, the area comes alive with a spectacular fireworks display. Fire shows, live music, and beach parties with international DJs continue until dawn, ensuring a memorable start to your new year.
Looking for a more laid-back experience? Head over to Kata or Kamala. You’ll find more family-friendly festivities there, including street food stalls and local performances. It’s a fantastic opportunity to sample some traditional Thai cuisine and soak in the local culture.
Phuket Bars and Clubs
Even if you’re in Patong and would prefer bars to the beach, Bangla Road, the main party street of the town, comes alive on New Year’s Eve. Keep in mind this is very adult entertainment, and if you have kids with you, it’s not the right destination. Open-minded adults, especially singles, will enjoy this place the most.
There are places to drink all over the island; some are five-star establishments, and some are stools around a pop-up bar. Everyone gets into the festive spirit, and it doesn’t matter where you are; you’ll find a party to go to.
Insider Tips for celebrating in Phuket
- It’s not just about the beach. Like in Bangkok, many hotels include a compulsory New Year’s Eve dinner. This could include live music and a local fireworks show, especially if you’re staying out of Patong.
- LGBTQI+ revellers, the place to go in Phuket is The Paradise Complex on the second road in Patong. Gay bars align two sides of the street, and there are drag performances, live DJs, and a countdown at midnight. I’ve spent some enjoyable New Year’s Eve here.
Koh Pha Ngan
Koh Pha Ngan is globally renowned for its Full Moon Party. On New Year’s Eve, it shifts gears, turning into a thrilling hedonistic party, attracting revellers from all corners of the world. Imagine ushering in the New Year on a moonlit beach, with the sand underfoot and the sound of the ocean nearby.
Koh Pha Ngan is the literal representation of a party paradise. As the clock ticks down to midnight, the island transforms into an explosion of sound, colour and vibrancy. With world-class DJs spinning tracks that reverberate across the bay, fire dancers illuminating the night, and thousands of glowing lanterns soaring into the sky, it all makes for a New Year’s Eve show like nowhere else in the world.
Insider Tip for partying on Koh Phangan
There are many different vibes at this beach party. One bar may play techno while the next one plays 80s rock ballads. My advice is to walk the entire area and find the vibe that’s right for you. I’ve had so many friends tell me they couldn’t get into it, only to discover that around the corner was the perfect bar for them.
Pattaya on NYE
Pattaya comes alive like no other time of the year during the New Year’s Eve celebrations. Imagine a grand fireworks spectacle illuminating the Gulf of Thailand while the city’s renowned nightlife scene adds a distinct flavour to your celebrations. From jaw-dropping beach parties to epitomising club events, Pattaya has it all.
Pattaya Central
For the 2024 festivities, they’ll run for three days from 29 December to 31 December. The entire beach will be a party zone, and local live bands will perform on the main stage. There will be a massive countdown at midnight on the 31st.
Pattaya’s many restaurants serve some specially designed New Year’s Eve menus. So, if you’re a foodie, you’re in for a real treat. Local temples host year-end prayers, lending a spiritual touch to your transition into the New Year.
In short, Pattaya blends traditional rituals, delicious food, thrilling parties, and awe-inspiring fireworks into a unique New Year’s Eve experience.
Jomtien Beach
For my LGBTQI+ friends, Supertown at Jomtien Beach, the next beach south of Pattaya Beach, has you covered. This block of streets has bars, restaurants, nightclubs, cabaret shows and massage shops. Street performers will entertain revellers right in front of their table if they’re lucky enough to get one street front. This is a fun yet more laid-back night out and one of my favourite places to start the year.
Insider Tips for NYE IN Pattaya
- Pattaya isn’t known for being overly family-friendly. There is a lot of adult entertainment there. However, the Central Festival Mall at the beach has family activities and is a safe space.
- The famous Pattaya Walking Street hasn’t fully recovered from being closed down during Covid and isn’t the same party place it was five years ago. The beach will make for a better destination this year.
Ko Samet
One of my favourite New Year’s Eve experiences was on Ko Samet. This small and serene island off the eastern coast of Thailand offers a unique NYE experience. While stunningly beautiful by day, this beauty transforms into an exuberant party hub as dusk falls on the 31st.
What sets it apart? The island’s bounty of seafood restaurants and beachfront bars ensures you indulge in Thailand’s best food while you await the grand fireworks display at midnight. The iconic beach parties are not to be missed. With live music, fire dancers and a vibrant crowd, it’s an extravaganza that engulfs the whole beach.
Insider Tips for Koh Samet NYE
- Sai Keaw Beach is where most of the partying takes place. My tip is to try and book a hotel nearby so you can stumble home. Trying to get transport to the other side of the island won’t be easy.
- LGBTQI+ friends, Tubtim Beach is the place for you to go if you want to party with other like-minded travellers.
NYE in Chiang Mai
While Bangkok and Phuket are known for their glitzy parties and fireworks, Chiang Mai combines traditional Thai culture with modern festivities in a uniquely enchanting way.
The city comes alive with fireworks however there are also thousands of floating lanterns (khom loi) released into the night sky, creating a breathtaking spectacle that rivals any fireworks display.
This tradition, while more commonly associated with Yi Peng festival, is often repeated during New Year celebrations, especially at major hotels and events.
Key NYE highlights in Chiang Mai include:
- Tha Phae Gate Countdown – The historic old city’s main gathering point features live music, food stalls, and a massive countdown celebration
- Temple Ceremonies – Many local temples hold special blessing ceremonies and bell-ringing events at midnight
- Riverside Celebrations – The banks of the Ping River host numerous events with both traditional lantern releases and modern fireworks displays
- Night Bazaar – The famous Night Bazaar area becomes a street party with live performances and countless food options
What makes Chiang Mai special for NYE is its more laid-back atmosphere compared to Bangkok or the islands. You can choose between joining the main celebrations or finding a quieter spot in the old city to welcome the New Year while watching lanterns float across the star-filled northern Thai sky.
Celebrate New Year’s Eve and Day at Meliá Chiang Mai
Located in the heart of Chiang Mai and home to the city’s tallest rooftop bar offering stunning views, the award-winning hotel is set to mark its third festive season with a vibrant program full of holiday cheer, including:
MAI The Sky Bar: Join the Sky High New Year’s Eve Countdown Party, complete with a band, DJs, drag queens, and fireworks lighting up the Chiang Mai sky. Choose between two rooftop experiences, with credit for food and drinks included. From 7pm-1am.
Laan Na Kitchen: Dine on a spectacular New Year’s Eve Buffet featuring highlights such as roast prime ribs, locally raised roast turkey, BBQ duck, char siu pork, grilled river prawns, and more. Live entertainment and festive surprises ensure a vibrant celebration for all.
Mai Restaurant and Bar: Not a night owl? Sleep away the start of the year and celebrate on New Year’s Day instead. Enjoy a four-course Thai set menu featuring dishes like green rice-crusted shrimp cake, Tom Kha soup with crabmeat, and a choice of sirloin beef steak or grilled Andaman tiger prawns, finishing with a dessert treasure box. From 6-10pm 1 January 2025.
For more information and reservations, contact Meliá Chiang Mai.
Ring in the New Year Thailand Style
So there you have it: no matter where you are in Thailand, a party will be waiting for you. The most significant places though are Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya, Koh Pha Ngan and Ko Samet.
Thailand’s capital promises you a fireworks display you’ll remember forever. See it right on the river or from a rooftop bar 60+ stories in the sky.
What are you waiting for? Book your tickets and fly over here. I’m ready to party with you.
About the author: Stephen left Australia in 2016 with a one-way ticket to Thailand
and hasn’t been back since. Seven years later, he’s “living the ex-pat dream”, married and settled down; he and his partner travel across Thailand competing in half-marathon running events and sampling coffee at cafes.
Main image: INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit