As the clock strikes midnight and the calendar flips to a new year, London bursts into life with vibrant events and activities to kickstart your 2024. Whatever you enjoy doing, London has something special for everyone on New Year's Day. Let's explore five exciting things to make the first day of 2024 memorable.
1. Sounds Familiar New Year's Day Brunch
Start your day with a musical quiz extravaganza at the Old Queen's Head. The Sounds Familiar New Year's Day Brunch is not just a quiz; it's a club night in disguise. Expect a fusion of your favourite tunes, from Old Skool Floor Fillers to Indie Anthems. Grab your tickets early for an epic musical journey.
The Sounds Familiar Music Quiz, known for its unique blend of a quiz and a club night, invites you to the BIG New Year's Day Brunch at the Old Queen's Head. Opening its doors at noon, the quiz kicks off sharply at 1:00 pm. Immerse yourself in the musical lovechild of a jukebox and the best parties you've ever attended. With over 100 killer tunes packed into one epic night, the event promises everything from Old Skool Floor Fillers and Power Ballads to Indie Anthems and Guilty Pleasures.
Don't miss out; secure your tickets early as their shows sell out quickly! Gather your friends, form a quiz team (maximum of 10 per team), and prepare for a memorable New Year's Day.
2. London New Year's Day Parade
Join the iconic London New Year's Day Parade, a spectacular event featuring over 10,000 participants from around the world. Marvel at the parade's grandeur as it kicks off at noon on Piccadilly. Delight in the diverse performances and enjoy the festivities that have been enchanting Londoners for over three decades.
London, consistently voted one of the world's most popular destinations, hosts the renowned London New Year's Day Parade (LNYDP). Celebrated by Londoners and visitors alike, the parade is a vibrant showcase of talent, culture, and festive cheer. Running alongside the parade is the LNYDP concert series and the Grand Finale of the London International Choral Festival, offering a variety of indoor and outdoor performances.
Over 500,000 spectators line the streets to witness the parade, while millions more tune in to the televised broadcast, making it a globally watched event. With over 10,000 participants from the USA, UK, Europe, and beyond, LNYDP promises a visual and auditory feast, culminating in a spectacle that marks the beginning of the new year. An integral part of LNYDP is its commitment to fundraising for London Charities, contributing over £2 million since its inception.
3. Shop January Sales
Indulge in post-Christmas retail therapy as London's department stores host their annual sales. From luxury goods at Harrods to fashion bargains at Westfield, explore the January sales at renowned stores like Fortnum & Mason, Liberty, and Selfridges. Find unbeatable deals and kick off the year with some well-deserved shopping.
The post-Christmas sales season in London is a shopper's delight, with several renowned department stores offering enticing deals. Starting on either December 26 or 27 and extending through mid-January, these sales attract crowds seeking discounts on a wide range of products.
Some of the iconic stores participating include Fenwick on Bond Street, offering fashion and accessories at great bargains, and Fortnum & Mason, London's premier food emporium with a hearty sale. Harrods, known for its winter sales on luxury goods, and Harvey Nichols, renowned for impressive reductions, are also part of the shopping extravaganza.
Explore the ICON Outlet at The O2 for accessible fashion and lifestyle brands at lower prices, and visit One New Change, a shopping mall in the City of London, for additional bargains. With numerous options to choose from, shoppers can make the most of the January sales while navigating the bustling city.
4. New Year's Day Proms at Barbican Centre
Ring in the new year with classical favourites at the Barbican Centre Hall. Enjoy a musical celebration featuring compositions by Mendelssohn, Sibelius, Rossini, Elgar, and Grieg, performed by the London Concert Orchestra under conductor Anthony Inglis. Each ticket includes a complimentary drink to add to the festive spirit.
The Barbican Centre Hall sets the stage for a stirring celebration of classical music on New Year's Day. The New Year's Day Proms take place on January 1, 2024, at 3:00 pm, promising a delightful afternoon of musical enchantment.
The programme includes Felix Mendelssohn's Hebrides Overture, Jean Sibelius's Finlandia, Gioachino Rossini's Largo al factotum, Edward Elgar's 'Nimrod' from Enigma Variations, and Edvard Grieg's 'Morning' and 'In the Hall of the Mountain King' from Peer Gynt.
Led by conductor Anthony Inglis, the London Concert Orchestra will captivate the audience, creating a memorable start to the new year. Attendees will also receive a complimentary drinks voucher with each ticket, exchangeable for a single 175ml measure of house wine, a 330ml bottle of standard beer, or a standard soft drink at any of Barbican’s bars on Level G or Level -1.
5. Last Chance Visit to Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park
Extend the festive joy with a last-chance visit to Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park. Glide across the ice rink, revel in circus shows, and experience the thrill of fairground rides. Immerse yourself in the Magical Ice Kingdom's icy wonders and explore the various family-friendly activities and shows. Winter Wonderland is the perfect way to conclude your New Year's Day festivities.
Winter Wonderland offers a fun-filled family event, making it one of the best things to do in winter. Boasting a plethora of festive entertainment and activities, the event caters to visitors of all ages. Skate to live music on the Winter Wonderland ice rink, the UK's largest outdoor rink, and marvel at acrobatic wonders during a circus show. Soar into the sky on the iconic Giant Observation Wheel for a mesmerising view of London's twinkling lights. Whether you prefer traditional carousel rides or daring loops on roller coasters, the fairground has something for everyone.
Explore the Magical Ice Kingdom, featuring over 500 tonnes of ice sculpted into secret passageways, a snow-tunnelled ice slide, and the crystal carriage of the Ice Palace. For a unique experience, take on the Edelweiss Funhouse, a walk-through adventure with a 300m (984 ft) alpine obstacle course and surprising illusion rooms. Embark on the Dr. Archibald VR experience, an immersive adventure that challenges your perception of reality. With many activities and shows, Winter Wonderland ensures a day and evening filled with festive joy.
Conclusion
London's New Year's Day offerings cater to diverse interests, ensuring that the city remains a vibrant and exciting destination as the new year unfolds. Whether you're enjoying music, parades, shopping, classical performances, or winter festivities, the capital city sets the stage for a memorable start to 2024. Embrace the variety, immerse yourself in the cultural richness, and make the most of these exciting events that define the spirit of London on New Year's Day.