America: Party central on New Year's Eve

Confetti rains down on New York's Times Square on during New Year's Eve celebrations. Photo / Creative Commons image by Flickr user gigi_nyc

Six fabulous US spots to see in the new year.

New York

New York, New Year, they're synonymous, say the million-plus people who flock to the Big Apple's Times Square for this famous annual party. The crowd count down the seconds to the stroke of midnight as a 4m glittering ball slowly drops from a flagpole on the top of the Times Square building. The party-goers are showered with confetti. The televised event includes fireworks and big names performing live.

Hawaii

It wouldn't be NYE without fireworks and Hawaiians flock to beaches to see in the New Year, the pyrotechnics casting beautiful lights over the sand and water. Seaside bars and clubs join in the action and there are outdoor concerts and boat cruises.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Every December 31 this party town closes its famous 6.5km-long Strip to vehicle traffic so pedestrians can mingle and celebrate New Year's Eve in one huge street party. At midnight fireworks are let off from building tops, and hotels, clubs and bars offer special shows and activities.

Miami, Florida

Dance the year away in Miami at South Beach's all-night dance-a-thon. Here, the 12m neon "Big Orange" drops from the Inter-Continental Miami. And, of course, there are fireworks as well as lots of music, family activities and tasty food offerings.

Legoland Florida, Winter Haven

For the littlies, Legoland has a KST (Kid's Standard Time) 6pm preview of midnight celebrations, releasing a descending giant blue Lego brick. There are also fireworks and a dance party.

Houston, Texas

This is another family-friendly New Year's venue known for its parade of decorated art cars, an ice-skating rink as well as fireworks and a light show.

CHECKLIST

Further information: See DiscoverAmerica.com.