Is There an Official NYE Countdown in Beijing?
Every December, the questions start rolling in—fresh-off-the-boat foreigners asking, "Where are the fireworks? Where's the official countdown party?"
In short, there are no fireworks on Dec 31 in Beijing, and no central gathering spot like New York City's Times Square ball drop, but that doesn't mean there's no place to go.
Of course, bars and restaurants will do their thing, with countless dinners and parties to ring in the New Year (check our events section here for the ones we know about). 798 Art District is also planning an art-filled bash in the way only 798 can.
But the main "official" event will be Beijing's own spin on New Year's Eve: Rather than NYC's descending apple, Beijing's official midnight celebration is all about traditional bells and drums.
At midnight, the ancient Yongle Bell at Haidian's Great Bell Temple and a drum troupe at the Juyongguan Great Wall will strike in sync. You can't go in person (unless you received the VIP invite), but the whole thing will be simulcast live across the city. It's a ceremony that nods to Beijing's imperial past, and it's meant to be experienced together, even if "together" means watching from a cinema seat or mall atrium.
Here's where you and your crew can gather to watch:
Malls and Public Squares:
Expect big screens with live link-ups, and extended hours at Solana, Huaxi LIVE, Shougang Park, Gubei Water Town, and more. Each district's got its own flavor: riverside broadcast in Tongzhou, industrial chic at Shougang, or a full-on shopping spree in Daxing.
Hard to say which venue will be the "hottest" this year, but for those looking for big crowds to celebrate "re nao" style with their fellow man, let it be known that big crowds gathered at Shougang Park, Taikoo Li, Shijingshan Amusement Park and Badaling Great Wall last year.
Cinemas
Cinemas are going late-night. Nearly 100 theaters are keeping the reels rolling past midnight. Expect official countdowns projected on the big screen, film marathons, themed packages, and prize draws. If you're after that classic "ten, nine, eight…" vibe but in a warm and cozy indoor seat, this is your best bet.
Museums
Night at the Museum! Museums are getting in on the action. More than 20 spots — including the Capital Museum, Beijing Planetarium, and others — are hosting NYE-themed nights and staying open till the wee hours. Twenty-six venues in total are part of the program, with activities like stargazing and interactive exhibits designed to make the night feel both festive and educational. Perfect if you want your countdown with a side of culture.
Pro tip: For the latest schedules and entry rules, stalk your venue's WeChat a few days before heading out.
READ: Three Things for the Week Ahead in Beijing (Dec 15-21)
Images: Canva, Uni You, Wikimedia Commmons user N509FZ and Clithering
