Ending the old, and starting the New Year in Bratislava

Do you want to celebrate the end of the year, dance the night away, and then step into the new year in Br[atislava](https://www.livetheworld.com/post/why-to-choose-bratislava-for-your-erasmus-programme-3kds)? Great choice! Slovak capital has lots to offer on both New Year's Eve and the day after as well. Let the old year end, and the New Year begin grandly. Here is what you might be doing.

New Year's Run

Do you want to celebrate the end of the year, meet other sports enthusiasts, and release some endorphins? Then you cannot miss the annual New Year's Run on the last day of December. It is an event that locals and foreigners love because you will run over the most beautiful bridges in Bratislava, continue along the Danube riverbank, and finish at a beautiful botanical garden. All ages are free to join, it is an 11,5 kilometers long route, and the race starts at 8:30 in the morning. Sounds good? Then do not forget to register by December 27th. To make it more fun, you can wear your Santa hat or a whole costume.

Fireworks in the city center

You should definitely visit the city center and see the fireworks prepared by the municipal of Bratislava. It is a really exceptional experience. After the fireworks, the countdown and a light show begin. And usually, it turns into a big party under the night sky, sometimes offering a way better night out than the overpriced clubs. There are going to be more stations from where you can watch fireworks and a light show, but I recommend Námestie Ľudovíta Štúra near the Danube river since some fireworks will be thrown from a boat and they look just incredible right on this spot. This is also a place where you can dance and party. If you are looking for something calmer, suitable even for children, then fireworks at the Br[atislava castle](https://www.livetheworld.com/post/in-the-footsteps-of-kings-the-best-castles-in-western-slovakia-bpq0) might work the best for you.

Cultural night

To make it fancier, you can put your nice dress on and attend the New Year's Eve annual opera at the State theater. You can hear the best opera singers from Sl[ovakia](https://www.livetheworld.com/post/slovakia-a-country-off-the-beaten-path-zslg) and enjoy the festive atmosphere in one of the most beautiful buildings in Bratislava's city center. And most likely, there will be prominent guests, such as politicians or other Slovak celebrities hanging out with you. If you prefer classical music over opera, then head to the Concert hall of Slovak Philharmonic and listen to Johann Strauss or Giacomo Puccini. To avoid any inconvenience, buy your tickets at least a few days in advance since those events tend to be in high demand.

New Year's brunch

The last day of the year will be probably the night when you stay up late, so you really do not feel like waking up early the next morning. But you must start your day right, that is why on the 1st of January, numerous restaurants are offering a special menu for a New Year 's brunch (do not worry, brunches are available till afternoon). And let us face it: brunch is the best excuse to pop another champagne from last night and celebrate once again. I recommend the one at Riverbank restaurant with their thematic menu, but basically, any restaurant might work. There are plenty of options, from fi[ne dining](https://www.livetheworld.com/post/best-fine-dining-restaurants-in-bratislava-1ggl) to cute and cozy bistros.

See? There is plenty to do in Br[atislava](https://www.livetheworld.com/post/christmas-spirit-in-bratislava-xpic) during the New Year's Eve, and of course, on the day after. This article might give you a few suggestions on how to say goodbye and welcome what the future holds for you next. Not to mention, there are numerous amazing ba[rs](https://www.livetheworld.com/post/bratislava-s-unique-cocktail-bars-g8he) and ni[ghtclubs,](https://www.livetheworld.com/post/5-best-dance-clubs-in-bratislava-7isu) where you can burn up the dance floor. No matter what you choose, the most important rule is to have fun and to be safe. Let the countdown begin.