Aspen, CO

Visitors in Aspen can take the day to ski or snowboard before making their way over to one of two fireworks shows taking place over the Aspen Mountains. Before the fireworks kick off at 8 PM and 12 AM, visitors should head over to Wagner Park, where a free outdoor party will be held with a DJ entertaining the crowds from 8:00 PM to midnight. Travelers can also take advantage of the area’s magnificent trails, free of charge. The Aspen Snowmass Nordic Trail System offers 300,000 feet of cross-country skiing and snowshoe trails between Aspen, Snowmass, and Basalt.

Boston, MA

On New Year’s Eve, Boston hosts its Frist Night and First Day festivities, providing visitors with a variety of art performances, ice sculptures, and events that can be enjoyed throughout the holiday weekend. Visitors can catch up on rare Shakespearean works by visiting a recently added exhibit, “Shakespeare Unauthorized,” where the first and other early editions of popular works can be viewed. There will also be free art and architecture tours held throughout the weekend in the Boston Public Library.

Chicago, IL

In Chicago, New Year’s Eve events range from bustling parties that take place throughout the night to family-friendly activities for parents and their children to enjoy. If you’re in the Windy City, visit the zoo at night. Although the zoo offers free admission year-round, on select dates for the holidays, the zoo is filled with limited 3D installations, ice sculptures, and light shows. Visitors can also ice skate with magnificent views at the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink in Millennium Park, located in the heart of the city. It’s free and open to the public – stop by on Friday for free lessons! Find your way to the Navy Pier before midnight for a stunning fireworks display over Lake Michigan with synchronized music.

New Orleans, LA

New Orleans is already known for its festive celebrations, and it doesn’t disappoint on New Year’s Eve! This city adds its own twist to typical holiday events, like the dropping of the fleur-de-lis in the historic Jackson Square. This year, the famed fleur-de-lis will come with a new design outfitted with lights. The Crescent City countdown will take place in Jackson Square with live music from the Allstate Sugar Bowl Fan Fest and a firework procession over the Mississippi River.

Los Angeles, CA

Visitors in Los Angeles can take advantage of the warmer weather while enjoying their New Year’s Eve festivities. Grand Park in downtown Los Angeles will host a party from 8:00 PM to 1:00 AM to kick off the new year. Throughout the space, visitors will be able to find everything from live music and photo booths to 3D digital video mappings of City Hall and large floats. On January 1, locals and visitors across Los Angeles’ beaches will participate in the polar plunge. Anyone who can bear the cold temperatures of the water are welcome to join in on the fun.