Texas is a big state, so naturally, there are a ton of activities and attractions to check out. Especially during New Year’s Eve, the festivities seem endless. See incredible fireworks displays, partake in exciting festivals, and enjoy amazing barbecue and Southwestern fare. From Austin to San Antonio, excitement and holiday cheer are abundant no matter where you go. Book a stay at a vacation rental in Texas today. Take a look at the top Texan cities that take New Year’s Eve to the next level.
1. Austin
Austin’s not only the capital city of that great country of Texas, but it’s also one of the best places to usher in the new year thanks to its history of live music and art. If you can score tickets to the New Year’s Eve Aerial Spectacular at Austin Music Hall, you can experience live music, dancers, and an intense aerial performance. The performance ends with a balloon drop, confetti, and champagne toast. If you have kids to entertain, go to Butler Park, where you find two stages of live music, interactive display, games, and food trucks. Sit tight after the fun wanes, because you’re in the perfect place to enjoy fireworks over Ladybird Lake.
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2. Houston
If you’re not sure where to go in Houston for New Year’s Eve because there are so many options, start small at the Children’s Museum of Houston. Its Rockin’ New Year’s Noon Bash offers activities, music, and a ball drop – at 12 in the afternoon. Continue to fun at Sugar Land Town Square with its 3-D light show, fireworks, and live music. After rushing the kids off to bed, continue your own party at MKT Bar. It features a popular New Year’s Eve global Dance Party, where you can eat food from around the world, dance your feet numb, and toast with exotic alcohol. CityCenter also has a party planned with music, fireworks, and confetti.
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3. San Antonio
San Antonio is good for both kids and adults; for instance, the DoSeum has a Kids Countdown. There are snacks, activities, music, and even a ball drop, everything an adult enjoys but that is perfect for children, including the early hours. Once darkness descends, head to San Antonio’s Riverwalk for the Carnaval de San Antonio, a festival with music, rides, food, and fireworks. Of course, if you want to party, there are dozens of adult options, such as the Paramour. This rooftop fete is all about high-end happiness, from caviar to champagne. If you want to let your hair down, go to Floore’s Country Store for two-stepping, rustic fun, and good food.
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4. Dallas
Make New Year’s Eve an all-day event that the entire family can enjoy with Holiday in the Park at Six Flags. Ride rides, snack on yummy food, enjoy the live music, and take one last opportunity to enjoy the Christmas-themed attractions. Drop the kids off with a sitter, and head to SkyView for its annual New Year’s Eve Black Tie Ball. You get a full dining experience, cocktails, and plenty of music. Then there’s the Champagne Life party at the Royalty at the Castle. Be a super-star, at least for one night, with red carpet entry, party favors, and masquerade masks.
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5. South Padre Island
Escape the cool weather for a sultry New Year’s Eve at South Padre Island. The island might be small in size, but it more than makes up for this with a truly astonishing fireworks display over Laguna Madre Bay. If you want to know where to go in South Padre Island for the best view of the fireworks, follow the crowds to the beach. Another option is to join fellow partiers at Louie’s Backyard. Eat some good seafood, enjoy cocktails, and watch the fireworks.
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6. Fredericksburg
Fredericksburg starts its New Year’s celebrations days early with “Rockin’ in the New Year” shows at Rockbox Theater. Take the kids for a fun evening, complete with drinks and popcorn. There’s also the early Supper club and Warm Up New Year Celebration at Vaudeville where you can enjoy a five-course meal, cocktails, and live music. On the actual day of the event, go to Historic Pat’s Hall for live music, great Texan food, and a dessert station. Other options include New Year’s Eve at Hondo’s on Main and Crossroads Saloon. On January 1, join others in a Memorial Walk that starts your new year right. You can even opt for running midnight 5k or 10k.
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7. Luckenbach
Luckenbach, like Fredericksburg, is another Hill Country town that knows how to do the last holiday of the year. The town’s main event, New Year’s Eve in Luckenbach, has live country music and food. Ring in the new year with a champagne toast and breakfast tacos before heading back to your Texas vacation rental in Luckenbach for a little shut-eye. The next day, take a wine-tasting tour of the Hill Country before heading home.
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8. Gruene
Gruene boasts the oldest dance hall in the state, and this historic spot doesn’t go to waste. It serves as the center of attention for Gruene’s annual New Year’s Eve party. Listen, and dance, to live country music and feast on popcorn and tamales. Share a champagne toast with your friends to usher in the new year.
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