Where to spend New Years Eve celebrating in Cornwall

Posted by Select Cornwall

on 12/12/2023

A guide to New Year in Cornwall - 2023

Experience the magic and festivities in Cornwall this New Year! We have created a round up of the best Cornish events and the most beautiful and picturesque places to welcome in 2024 with family and loved ones. 

Cornwall is set to host a series of unforgettable events to welcome 2023 with open arms. From charming coastal celebrations to lively city soirées, here's a guide to the diverse New Year's events that Cornwall has in store for locals and visitors alike. We've also created a round up of group accomodation if you're planning a last minute staycation this December!

St Ives New Year street party

In St Ives, New Year's Eve transcends celebration; a huge fancy dress street party that spills on to the beach! The villages streets close to traffic, ushering in a colossal street party adorned with vibrant fancy dress costumes—a spectacle anticipated throughout Cornwall. Commencing around 8pm, the family-friendly festivities in St Ives, renowned for its annual festivals, offer a unique New Year's experience. Live bands, delectable street food, and a lively ambiance unfold against the stunning harbour front backdrop.

At the stroke of midnight, bells echo through town, marking the start of one of Cornwall's most breathtaking New Year's Eve fireworks displays. The skies above St Ives transform into a canvas, casting a magical glow over town and its picturesque beaches. St Ives holds a distinct honour as one of the UK's largest fancy dress gatherings.

Streets burst with colours and creativity as locals and visitors don quirky costumes. With traffic sealed off around the harbour front, pubs, bars, and sea-view restaurants become lively hubs, reservations recommended for the high demand.

As night progresses, a sea of people meet on the beach for the grand finale—a mesmerizing firework display painting the night sky over the sea. Ranking as the UK's third-largest fancy dress party, St Ives solidifies its status alongside London and Edinburgh as the ultimate destination for a uniquely unforgettable New Year's celebration.

New Year festivities in Looe, Cornwall

In the spirited town of Looe, New Year's celebrations take on a carnival-like ambiance whilst welcoming families with their early firework display. Embracing the festive spirit, locals and visitors alike don elaborate fancy dress. Wearing normal clothing seems out of place in the vibrant atmosphere that envelops the entire town.

Looe's commitment to creating a magical experience extends beyond the people. The town's buildings and harbour boats join the revelry, adorned with cheerful lights that add to the festive New Years glow. 

What sets Looe apart is its double dose of dazzling displays in the sky. With firework shows at both 6pm and midnight, the party kicks off early, ensuring families can get involved in the excitement. This makes Looe a great New Years celebration for families with young children in Cornwall and Devon, to enjoy the spectacle without the need to stay up until the stroke of midnight.

An unforgettable New Year in Cornwall's Capital

As the vibrant capital of Cornwall, Truro welcomes New Year's Eve with open arms, promising a night filled with energy and festivities. The cobbled streets come alive as most bars host lively parties, creating a dynamic night-time vibe that's perfect for those seeking an unforgettable celebration.

For those enchanted by the allure of New Year's Eve fireworks, Truro delivers with not one, but two spectacular displays on Lemon Quay. The illuminated skies serve as a dazzling backdrop to the city's jubilant atmosphere.

Among the standout events is the Cathedral Masquerade, a grand affair where Truro Cathedral transforms into a huge party. Complete with gin gardens and a silent disco, it's an iconic celebration where the bells ring in the New Year at the stroke of midnight.

A seaside street party in Falmouth

Step into the vibrant heartbeat of Falmouth as it comes alive on New Year's Eve, offering a seaside street party! Much like its coastal counterparts St Ives and Newquay, Falmouth welcomes guests adorned in their finest fancy dress outfits, creating a whimsical and festive atmosphere with a strong community feel.

The local boats and buildings join the revelry, decked in holiday cheer. Immerse yourself in the rhythm of live music that echoes through the streets, adding a melodic backdrop to the festivities. The highlight of the night unfolds with a momentous New Year's Eve firework display, casting a photogenic reflection onto the river from the nearby embankment. It's a breathtaking spectacle that crowns the celebration, illuminating the coastal skies and leaving you with memories of a magical Falmouth.

Thinking of a last minute New Years staycation celebration?

We've pre-selected the New Year weekend dates (Friday 29th- Monday 1st January 2024) on our website and have filtered group friendly accomodation. Click here to view all the available holiday lets!