New Years Celebration in Austin

To be one of the largest cities in Texas says a lot. Austin not only boasts that title, as well as being the State Capital, but also rights as the one of the “Top 25 US Arts Destinations.” The holiday season is one of the most anticipated in the city, with Austin’s varied and exciting spirit becoming enhanced by the cheer that an incoming year brings. With the festivities starting right after Thanksgiving and lasting the entire month of December, it is almost an impossibility not to take part.

Austin, as big as it is, is really a neighborhood with as much unity and sense of community to fill the entire state of Texas. On an important holiday such as New Years, events for everyone to participate in are imperative to the family-friendly city. With celebrations such as First Night Austin, the Tree Lighting at the State Capital, and plenty of shows and performances suitable for all ages, it’s a perfect city to spend the holiday in. Many families find themselves traveling to Austin from all parts of the United States and beyond during New Years; even one memorable year is enough to convince you to return.

If you are not in Austin for the G-rated fun, there are still ample opportunities for you to ring in the New Year. Men’s Journal named it the “#1 Best Nightlife City” and the action never slow down.  One of the most popular and frequented spots is Sixth Street, Austin’s own version of Bourbon Street. Lined with everything that defines nightlife (dance clubs, lounges, bars, restaurants and pool halls all draw crowds from one street), Sixth caters to every style and taste. The famous melting pot of Central Texas has establishments ranging from the trendy where the young gyrate among top 40 hits, to country-western sports bars only playing Texan games and events. On New Years Eve, the street floods with revelers from all over, but there is no separation—everyone joins in the celebration. You can purchase tickets to the big parties and clubs for the NYE celebrations in advance from websites such as NewYearsEve.com, but don’t hesitate, because they certainly go fast!

The calendar is as full on New Years Eve as Austin is itself. With so many opportunities to have a good time and start 2008 off differently than 2007, your best bet is to start planning early.  Hotels, parties, restaurants, and other affairs are always sold out, booked, and taken with excited NYE anticipators well before you’d think—but hopefully not before you get a chance to enjoy it all too