Classiest New Year’s Parties in New England (2024)

I’m starting to see the appeal of classy New Year’s Eve festivities.

I want the champagne flutes, the high-class glitter, the photo booth area. I want the Gilded Age atmosphere, the upscale outfits, and the familiar banter shared amongst friends.

I’ve had enough of the full moon parties on Koh Phangan. Even haunting my favorite local spots like 33/45 in Barcelona don’t quite offer the same excitement that they used to.

All the signs are clear: I’m ready to level up my NYE partying habits.

If you’re feeling the same and want a classier New Year’s fete to usher in your latest era, then I suggest keeping your eye on resorts and hotels in New England.

While you can find black-tie parties nationwide, states like Massachusetts, New York, New Hampshire, and Connecticut have that historic feel that bodes well for a Gatsby-style soiree.

And with dozens of historic hotels and venues dotting New England, finding a classy New Year’s Eve party is probably easier than you think.

Classiest New Year’s parties in New England

White Mountain Hotel & Resort, New Hampshire

In case you’ve missed the zeitgeist, White Mountain is one of the premier wintering destinations in New England. Visitors passing through New Year’s have the option of joining the Winter Wonderland party at White Mountain Hotel & Resort.

The themed event includes a cocktail reception with live piano music, then a full-course gourmet meal. Once tummies are full, guests can dance at their leisure to the tunes of a seven-piece band led by male and female vocalists.

Elegant table décor, an elevated champagne toast at midnight, and plenty of gold-hued decorations make this my top pick for classy NYE parties in New Hampshire.

The Nantucket Hotel & Resort, Massachusetts

Consider this your sign to check out Nantucket. The Nantucket Hotel & Resort is throwing a New Year’s Eve on Nantucket event once more. This is a three-in-one celebration that many guests head back to experience year after year.

The big night includes a three-course meal from the hotel’s executive chef, Michael Hervieux. The extravagant meal is followed by a performance by Joe Stetson, one of the country’s most famous mentalists. (A mentalist is a mind-reader—not a magician.)

After the meal and the show, guests can dance the night away to classic hits from DJ Billy Voss. Just be prepared for a tone change: the night switches from a black-tie gala-esque event into a black-light-dance-floor DJ set.

Pelham House Resort, Massachusetts

Have your sights set on Cape Cod more than Nantucket? No problem. Head to Dennis Port and book a stay at the Pelham House Resort. Like The Nantucket Hotel, it’s a well-known luxury establishment that regularly hosts popular events.

The Pelham House New Year’s Eve Bash includes live entertainment from the PickPockets, along with elevated food stations spread across two separate ballrooms.

You’ve got room to roam and check out the festivities as the night goes on. The Sea Level Ballroom and Rooftop let you soak up different atmospheres until the night culminates in a midnight champagne toast. Just keep in mind that the cash bar isn’t included in the ticket price.

York Harbor Inn, Maine

I’ve found the jewel in my Gatsby New Year’s Eve crown at the York Harbor Inn. Its fete is themed in the Gilded Age, curating an effortlessly classy atmosphere. And the York Harbor Inn doesn’t just host a New Year’s Eve party—it goes big the whole weekend.

In other words, your ticket includes a stay at the inn along with entrance to the big party. You’ll enjoy a five-course gourmet meal in the main dining room before heading to a gala celebration with live music. When the ball drops, guests toast with champagne before heading back to the dance floor.

My favorite part? The next morning, you’re also treated to New Year’s Day brunch… with an ocean view nonetheless.

Water’s Edge Resort & Spa, Connecticut

The Water’s Edge Rockin’ Eve is one of the biggest nights of the year at Water’s Edge Resort & Spa. Aside from being classy and upscale, I’m a fan of this New Year’s Eve party because you can buy tickets for the event or an overnight package.

The party kicks off with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, letting guests mingle and get to know one another. Then comes a four-course dinner, followed by a live musical performance from a local band. Like most other parties, there’s a champagne toast at midnight.

If you’re considering buying a ticket, I’d purchase the overnight package. Not only does it come with a New Year’s day brunch for two, but it also includes a 20% discount for spa packages.

Best New Year’s Eve Parties in Chicago (2024)

If you’re in Chicago over New Year’s Eve, godspeed.

My brother has lived in Chicago for close to a decade. I’ve heard no shortage of bone-chilling winter tales over the years, like the time his car refused to start in a snowstorm.

Though it’s known as the Windy City thanks to its formerly corrupt political era, most Americans assume that this moniker comes from the 11-mile-per-hour winds that regularly zip through the city. And why not? It’s hard to think of anything else when you’re hit with strong gales, especially when temperatures are so low.

But that doesn’t slow the city down on New Year’s Eve.

Every year, tens of thousands of revelers brave the dark night to ring in the New Year with friends and family. They’re also ringing in the arrival of the coldest month of the year (January)—but Chicagoans are unafraid to go out even during the height of the winter chill.

How do they do it? On the record, hefty down coats and thick skin. Off the record, I’m sure boozing helps.

If you’ll be in the Windy City this New Year’s Eve, then be sure to hit one of the city’s most popular parties. Just remember to pack your coat. And long johns. And thermal socks.

Shortcut: the best NYE parties in Chicago

Free pick: Chicago NYE Ball Drop & Fireworks at Navy Pier
Coolest experience: Offshore Rooftop & Bar Party
Classiest choice: Grand Chicago’s New Year’s Eve Party
Best themed party: New Year’s Eve at Meadowlark
Hotel-party pick #1: New Year’s Eve Party at The Metropolitan
Hotel-party pick #2: New Year’s Eve Party at The Palmer House

Best New Year’s Eve parties in Chicago in 2024

Chicago NYE Ball Drop & Fireworks at Navy Pier

Chicago’s official NYE fireworks show takes place over Lake Michigan. The best views are from Navy Pier, which comes alive with thousands of spectators.

The crowd might not be ideal, but it’ll help protect you from the bitter wind. Plus, there are plenty of enclaves for hiding, from bars to shops to other vendors. Just make sure to pack multiple layers… and then some.

Offshore Rooftop & Bar Party

Did you know that Chicago is home to the US’s largest rooftop bar? This year, Offshore Rooftop & Bar is hosting a four-hour event that includes an open bar and perfect views of the fireworks over Lake Michigan. It’s located on the Navy Pier, putting you right at eye level with the show.

Though you’ll be paying top dollar ($225) for a ticket, I think that open bar and view make it worth the price. Plus, Offshore Rooftop doesn’t oversell its tickets, meaning you’ll have space to breathe—and dance to a live DJ, too.

Grand Chicago’s New Year’s Eve Party

If you don’t like rooftop bars (?!), then head to one of the city’s most iconic and grandest ballrooms: the Aon Grand. This massive space turns into a classic NYE fete—one that includes a ball drop, live music, and ensemble DJ sets.

Plus, you’ll still have views of the fireworks show… through the grand ballroom’s sweeping glass ceiling nonetheless.

New Year’s Eve at Meadowlark

The parties mentioned below are pretty standard NYE fare: show up, drink and dance, and then head home. But if you want something a more refined and themed evening, I highly suggest nabbing a ticket to The Meadowlark’s Gilded Era-themed speakeasy party.

You can choose from bar, table, and lounge options, which include small bites and select cocktails.

New Year’s Eve Party at The Metropolitan

Billed as one of the most exclusive NYE parties in the city, this Metropolitan soiree includes all the markers of a great party: free food, drinks, and entertainment. But these are spread out across five distinct party areas, some of which include fireworks views, reserved seating, and even private bartenders.

The cherry on top? The Metropolitan is offering discounted room rates for the big night, letting you drink to your heart’s desires before taking an elevator back to your room to vomit in peace.

New Year’s Eve Party at The Palmer House

Like the Metropolitan, The Palmer House is one of the city’s most iconic and historic hotels. It’s a little bit more upscale in terms of its NYE packages, which include unique food, drink, and service options.

It’s a popular choice for those who want VIP tables and top-shelf service. Again, like the Metropolitan, you can rent a room at a discounted rate when you buy a ticket to the party. No waiting outside for a taxi or falling asleep on the ride home.

Christmas in Massachusetts: 3 Picturesque Towns for a Perfect Holiday

When it comes to total Christmas charm, it’s hard to beat New England.

New England holidays are some of the most classic in the United States for three reasons.

First, the winter chill usually brings fresh white snow. Second, most towns are old—meaning they have main streets downtown worth a stroll. Third, those historic areas come alive under the glow of Christmas lights.

Those three key ingredients (snow, historical appeal, and picturesque streets) are hard to beat. Local families flock to their favorite towns year after year, while others fly and drive great distances to be part of the holiday magic.

But with more than a few options worth checking out, which towns in Massachusetts have the ‘best’ Christmas cheer?

Let’s explore my top three picks based on those three metrics listed above.

Top 3 towns for celebrating Christmas in Massachusetts

Most picturesque pick: Stockbridge

Scenes from 2023’s Stockbridge Main Street Christmas Event (Getty)

Last year, Stockbridge was named as one of the top 30 Christmas towns in the US by a major interior decorating publication, ‘House Beauty’.

This gorgeous Berkshires town has plenty of history, just like Concord (below)—but it comes out ahead when it comes to a cozy, quaint atmosphere.

The shops lining its main street look like they’re straight out of a children’s book. In fact, Norman Rockwell actually called this town home for years up until his death in 1978. Picturesque is a fitting word—especially considering you might recognize some Stockbridge streets from his work.

(I’m referring to 1967’s ‘Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas’… which is now actually its own separate Christmas event.)

Heading to Stockbridge this year?

Best history pick: Concord

You know Concord even if you don’t know that you know it. Concord is the hometown of the first shot fired during the American Revolution. It’s home to literary icons, from Nathaniel Hawthorne (The Scarlet Letter) to Louise May Alcott (Little Women).

Regardless of what you’re doing around town, you’ll have walkable streets that are lined with historical shops and residences. Sort of like a Gilmore Girls set.

Over Christmas, you can also enjoy activities like the Gift of Lights drive-through lights display, the Winter LIghts decorated gardens, and other local events at the Concord Museum and the Toy Shop of Concord.

Heading to Concord this year?

Best snowy pick: Newburyport

If you’re seeking out a snowy Massachusetts Christmas, you need to stick to the central and western parts of the state. Newburyport is one of a handful of snowy Christmas destinations in MA’s central region—and there are dozens of ways to get involved in the winter festivities.

First off, if snow is only your thing for an hour or two—don’t worry. Newburyport is home to the North Pole Express Train event, which doesn’t require any snowy excursions.

That being said, if you’re actively looking to get knee-deep in the snow, you can expect at least a bit of snowfall throughout December.

You can enjoy the fresh powder while enjoying the family sing-a-long at the Firehouse Center for the Arts, the Christmas at the Farm tour of Manor House, and the Luminous Night Winter Concert series.

Heading to Newburyport this year?

Which European Cities Have the Most Christmas Markets?

Christmas isn’t really a numbers game, but if it were, I might measure cities based on features like Christmas markets.

Markets are easier to measure than other holiday pastimes, such as decorating public spaces, hosting Santa meet-and-greets, and selling seasonal treats.

I’d argue that markets are where all the best parts of holiday cheer collide, like spending time with loved ones while shopping at the stalls or sipping on delicious treats like hot cocoa and mulled wine. Whether small and local or massive and metropolitan, it’s hard to go wrong with a Christmas market.

But some are more charming than others… and as someone who has lived in Europe for the last five years, I’ve stumbled upon some surprisingly gorgeous markets around the continent.

My favorite Christmas market is located in the heart of Warsaw, Poland. There’s an ice skating rink, mulled wine galore, and a few small stalls for shopping. And it’s just one of nine unique Christmas markets in the city, along with a royal lights display. (Also very cool.)

Warsaw isn’t alone in going all-out for Christmas, especially when it comes to other European capital cities.

Dreaming of a holiday Euro-trip city where you’ll run into Christmas market after Christmas market?

Below, you can find a list of where to find them. Head to these capitals, which were researched and ranked by Heepsy according to factors like total number of markets, accommodation costs, temperatures, and local transportation.

You won’t be able to escape the cheer.

European cities with the most Christmas markets

Berlin, Germany: 42 Christmas markets, decorations start on November 25
Rome, Italy: 25 Christmas markets, decorations start in early December
Paris, France: 11 Christmas markets, decorations start in late November
Warsaw, Poland: 9 Christmas markets, decorations start in late November
Bucharest, Romania: 8 Christmas markets, decorations start in early December
Vienna, Austria: 6 Christmas markets, decorations start on November 16
Andorra la Vella, Andorra: 5 Christmas markets, decorations start in late November
Copenhagen, Denmark: 5 Christmas markets, decorations begin on November 8
Brussels, Belgium: 3 Christmas markets, decorations begin on November 29
Helsinki, Finland: 3 Christmas markets, decorations begin on November 29

Top Picks: Raffles Hotels & Resorts Holiday Packages

Dreaming of an elegant getaway this holiday season?

I’m prone to dreaming about elegant getaways year-round—but some of the world’s best resorts and hotels go above and beyond as New Year’s rolls around.

It’s a time to capitalize on those warm, gushy holiday feelings that come with Hannukah, Christmas, and New Year’s.

To put it simply, nobody curates a feeling quite like a luxury resort. While I’m a big fan of boutique hotels of all shapes, sizes, and persuasions, an opulent brand has the resources to put together events and displays on a totally different level.

Welcome to the magic of the five-star Raffles Hotels & Resorts. While hospitality brands across the world are launching holiday programs, I haven’t been able to take my eye off the experiences from Raffles.

Never heard of Raffles Hotels & Resorts?

I first heard of Raffles Hotels & Resorts a few years back during a casual conversation about the movie Crazy Rich Asians. The company name sounded a little goofy, to be honest—but their global suite of luxury hotels and resorts is anything but.

Raffles is a Singaporean hotel and resort brand that was launched back in 1887 by four Persian-Armenian brothers. They named it after the distinguished British diplomat who founded Singapore: Mr. Raffles himself.

Just kidding. His name was Sir Stanford Raffles.

Fast forward 130 years and Raffles remains a Blue Blood institution through and through. It has expanded its roster of hotels and resorts far beyond the tiny nation-state of Singapore, from Warsaw to Pnom Penh to Mecca to Boston.

You can also check out Raffles experiences and long-term residencies.

But if you’re going to fork over for a luxurious experience with Raffles, I’d suggest taking advantage of their holiday offers at these hotels and resorts. They’re basically seven-star locations.

Most elegant holiday offers from Raffles Hotels & Resorts

Enjoy elevated Christmas dining & NYE parties at Raffles Boston

Raffles has one American location—and it’s in Boston. (Is anyone else surprised by that?) Guests can take advantage of the Christmas and New Year’s Eve celebrations.

For Christmas, you can expect a Michelin-caliber meal from the Michelin-starred head chef, George Mendes, of on-site restaurant AMAR. Even the Christmas buffet is elevated with carving stations and a sushi bar.

On New Year’s Eve, you can celebrate in style at the on-site Blind Duck speakeasy. You’ll have a full view of the Boston skyline as you ring in the new year in style.

Step into a fairytale Nutcracker Christmas at London at the OWO

If you like Christmas you’ll love Raffles’ approach at its London OWO location. The grounds showcase the original nightgown from The Nutcracker—which is adorned with over 400 hand-placed Swarovski crystals. And that’s just the start of the Nutcracker wonders.

There’s afternoon tea with themed Nutcracker drinks and treats, along with a pre-theatre menu from head chef Mauro Colagreco—also themed to match the famous play. If you want to bundle in a theatre trip to see the live play, you can simplify your holidays by purchasing OWO’s ‘Nutcracker Nights’ package.

It’s easily one of the coolest Christmas experiences I’ve seen offered by a hotel—and I’ve only given you the bare outline of the program’s offerings.

Enjoy a royal celebration at Le Royal Monceau, Paris

Want to really indulge? There’s no better place than at Le Royal Monceau in Paris.

This year, the head chef invented a new Yule Log pastry in honor of his first season at the hotel—which is inspired by Le Royal Monceau’s history. (It’s a tribute to a noblewoman who once graced the grounds in striking red clothes.)

But the real magic is the festive dining options on Christmas and New Year’s Eve gala. The former includes curated brunch menus at all three on-site eateries. The latter includes a ‘Royal Celebration Package’ that comes with a gala dinner, breakfast, and spa treatments.

Raffles Seychelles

If you’re looking for tropical and family-friendly destinations, look no further. Raffles Seychelles has multiple Christmas and New Year’s festivities that are fun for the whole family.

From tree gathering to cocktail parties to traditional four-course meals, you can truly spend the holiday away from home without missing out on those special moments. There’s even a Santa meet-and-greet for the kiddos.

The same goes for its New Year’s program. While the Sugar Palm Kids Club offers daily activities like art and cooking classes, adults can have their fun with a separate celebration—one that includes live performances and live cooking stations.

Champagne Powder: Have A White Christmas at These US Ski Resorts

Every year, my friends head to Andorra for a ski trip.

I grew up in Missouri, which means I have a very tenuous relationship with winter sports. It’s not due to lack of cold—I think it comes down to a few other factors.

First, we have a good amount of hills but no mountains in MO. Second, Missouri has big down-home vibes—locals are more likely to buy ATVs than snowboards.

So, when it’s time for that Andorra trip, I turn into a little après-ski fairy. I bring a book, make friends with the bartender, and curl up near the fireplace.

I’m left to my own devices until my Dutch, Italian, Spanish, and English friends wander back into the warm glow of the lodge. And that’s not going to change anytime soon.

That being said, I get the appeal of a snowy escape to the slopes—especially during Christmas.

A ski resort (and its lodge) is one of those places where Christmas really comes alive. From the chugging fireplace to the scent of mulled wine to the leagues of fresh powder, skiing is closely tied to all forms of winter cheer, especially in Europe and North America.

In other words, spending Christmas at a ski lodge should be on your radar—whether or not you want to strap on those skis.

Top US ski resorts open for Christmas: at a glance

Best luxury resort: Viceroy Snowmass, Colorado
Best for a classic Christmas experience: Park City Mountain Resort, Utah
Top pick for hardcore skiers: Grand Targhee Resort, Wyoming
Best ski town: Stowe Mountain Resort, Vermont

Top 4 picks: US ski resorts open for Christmas

Viceroy Snowmass, Colorado

This ultra-luxury choice is one of the best on the continent—not just in the US. Over Christmas, you can expect a five-star treatment that includes a range of festive activities. (They also offer a Menorah lighting experience!)

From carol-singing to themed cocktails, it’s all about the details. There are even snowman-making competitions. On Christmas and New Year’s Eve, you can also enjoy special dining menus from Toro Snowmass.

The more you zoom in at Viceroy, the more Christmas cheer you find.

Book a room

Park City Mountain Resort, Utah

Park City is a well-known quantity for diehard skiers around the US—but did you know that the Park City Mountain Resort (also popular) has a well-rounded list of holiday events? Most are Christmas-themed, including its daily tree lightings, ice carvings, photos with Santa, and more.

The festivities culminate on December 20^th when you can enjoy a fireworks display over the mountain. It’s followed by a party with free churros, live music, and more Santa photo ops.

Book a room

Grand Targhee Resort, Wyoming

Known as the ‘powder king of Wyoming’, the main appeal of this high-altitude resort is its endless leagues of fresh powder. If you’re a snob about snow and want some deep powder, this might just be your mecca. And the resort places a huge emphasis on finetuning its operations with skiers and snowboarders in mind.

Most of their events calendar includes live music from local favorites like Triple Lindy and Batdorf & the Brother Wolf. I don’t know if you can tell by the names, but those are both homegrown, folk groups that are sure to please just about any music lover. On Christmas day, you can join a Christmas dinner with tons of menu options—just be sure to reserve ahead of time.

And don’t forget about the NYE Rail Jam party over New Year’s Eve. This event includes tons of action at the rail park where athletes freestyle to bring in the new year.

Book a room

Stowe, Vermont

My last recommendation isn’t an actual resort; it’s a town that has multiple ski resorts to choose from, along with plenty of Christmas activities. (Après-ski fairies, rejoice!)

In terms of local entertainment, you can enjoy a Monkeys on Eggnog show on the local brewery grounds, along with other unique activities like the Taste of Vermont Food Tour and even library flash tattoos.

In terms of Christmas cheer, you can expect a classic buffet on the big day, followed by a sled dog meet and greet, snowshoe and tubing tour, and other unique events all in the center of town.

Seriously, the calendar is chock-full of excuses to pack up and head to Stowe, Vermont. All you need to do is choose the resort that’s right for you. Shop around for budget picks or luxury stays; regardless of your choice, you won’t go wrong.