As the year draws closer to an end, the pending question is 'how are you celebrating this new year?' Will you be spending it with family and friends for a close intimate party or will you be welcoming 2010 with a big schabang? And for those who are still undecided here are a few ideas and tips on how to party your way into the last year of the decade.
No matter whether you choose to stay in or head out, stick to this year's theme where everyone is encouraged to wear a touch of blue this New Year's Eve to celebrate Sydney's blue harbour and summer sky.
In the city
The countdown to midnight will kick off from 5pm with pre-show entertainment around Sydney harbour. There will be an Indigenous Smoking Ceremony featuring five indigenous vessels to cleanse the harbour of evil spirits followed by an Acknowledgement to Country show.
The Harbour of Light Parade will sail a 15km circuit around the harbour which will feature over 50 illuminated vessels decorated with lights to represent this year's New Year's Eve theme – Awaken the Spirit.
The traditional family fireworks at 9pm will give a prelude to the midnight fireworks with an eight minute choreographed performance firing from four spots on the harbour, the rooftops of seven skyscrapers and some surprise locations.
But the big spectacular which takes 15 months of planning is the 12 minute midnight fireworks display firing from seven barges on the harbour, the rooftops of seven skyscrapers and of course the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Hot Spots – in and around town
With the fireworks being the highlight of each New Year's Eve celebration, it's always crucial to get the best seats in the house. And the only way to do it is to know where to go:
The obvious spots
• Darling Harbour
• Royal Botanic Gardens
• The Rocks
• Circular Quay
Hidden favourites
• Clarkes Point Reserve, Hunters Hills
• Blues Point Reserve, McMahons Point
• Ferry Wharf, Rose Bay
• Nielsen Park, Vaucluse
• Dudley Page Reserve
For more New Year's Eve vantage points, head to the official New Year's Eve
website.
Restaurants
Perhaps you're thinking it might be a little bit too difficult to find a spot amongst the city crowds. Instead check out some of the few restaurants around town where you can book yourself into one of these parties to ensure you get a good feed as you watch the fireworks on the big screen.
Alio
Chef Ashley Hughes who has worked alongside with renowned chef, Jamie Oliver, has designed a special nine course menu just for the night at
Alio. Expanding on the restaurant's Italian cuisine, there will be servings of handmade Spinach gnocchi with fresh peas, asparagus, broad beans and goats curd dressing, as well as a fillet of Black Angus beef with a fennel and parmesan gratin. Price $79 or $109 with matching wines. For more details call 02 8394 9368.
Doltone House Darling Island Wharf
Fast becoming a favourite venue for parties, the
Doltone House Darling Island Wharf is where to get uninterrupted views of the Sydney harbour – the perfect spot to view the two live firework shows at 9pm and midnight. Guests will be treated to a five course set dinner menu from the award-winning Doltone House catering team, while a live band and disc jockey will add to the festive spirit. There will also be unlimited champagne, wine, beer, spirits and soft drinks on the night. Adults $200; Children 6-12 $100; Children under 6 are free. Call 02 8543 6018 to book.
Ravesi's
Dance your way into 2010 with a beachside playground of Bondi Beach at
Ravesi's Hotel's Drift cocktail lounge. There will be an all-star international line-up of Ministry of Sounds DJs Hook & Sling, Diego Lenis, Sam La More, and refreshing local talent Miss Gabby, DJ Shamus and Quick Brown Fox & Lazy Cat. Tickets $25-$90. Call 02 9365 4422.
Q-Station
Manly's famous haunted hospital,
Q Station will be re-opening its doors for the fancy-dress Doctors & Nurses Ball on the night. It's one of the best vantage points for both Manly and Sydney Harbour Bridge firework displays which includes a three-course meal, unlimited drinks, live DJ entertainment and transfers to and from Manly Wharf. Tickets are $179. Call 02 9466 1500.
DIY party
Sometimes it's just easier to avoid the crowds and celebrate New Year's Eve with close family and friends.
Tune in on 104.1 2DayFM for the live broadcast soundtrack of the latest pop sounds before watching the televised coverage of both the 9pm family fireworks and the midnight fireworks on Channel 9.
