How to Spend New Year's Eve in Brooklyn

House of Yes in Bushwick

House of Yes is a club-slash-rave with a little bit of burlesque thrown into the mix. On New Year's Eve, the creative minds behind this quirky venue go bigger than usual with aerial dancers, fire eaters, and surprise performances that are guaranteed to astound. And while they aren't able to throw the usual larger-than-life party for New Year's Eve 2020–2021, they are bringing the party to your home.

Whether you're in Brooklyn or living across the world, you can stream the YES! New Year's Cyber Celebration from your living room. Just as with a typical House of Yes party, costumes are highly encouraged. So dress up, turn your speakers to their highest, and start the new year by enjoying one of Brooklyn's coolest parties.

Barclays Center in Fort Greene

The New Year's Eve concert at the Barclays Center is canceled in 2020–2021.

When the Brooklyn Nets aren't playing, the Barclays Center turns into a concert venue. Big-name acts take the stage every New Year's Eve, including past headliners such as Elton John, Kanye West, Post Malone, and The Strokes. You can count on there being plenty of food and libations to keep everyone happy until the wee hours of the morning.

Grand Army Plaza in Prospect Park

The fireworks show at Grand Army Plaza is canceled for New Year's 2020–2021.

The main entrance to one of Brookyln's most iconic parks, Grand Army Plaza, is the perfect viewing spot to hear free music and watch fireworks as the clock creeps closer to midnight. If Grand Army is packed with people, go inside the park on West Drive or along Prospect Park West between Grand Army Plaza and Ninth Street as an alternative.

Music Hall of Williamsburg

The New Year's Eve concert at the Music Hall of Williamsburg is canceled in 2020–2021.

Ring in the new year at the Music Hall of Williamsburg, a much smaller venue than the colossal Barclays Center (the Music Hall only holds about 550 people at a time). It's a much more intimate experience and a favorite venue of locals, highlighting up-and-coming indie artists instead of the biggest names in pop music. Plus, it's right in the middle of Brooklyn's hippest neighborhood.

Brooklyn Bowl in Williamsburg

As of December 2020, the Brooklyn Bowl is closed until further notice.

Most people looking for a good time don't aim to strike out, but at Brooklyn Bowl, that's the goal. On New Year's Eve, this massive bowling alley, designed in a retro arcade style, offers a double-bill of entertainment. While you're bowling, jam out to live music followed by a special DJ session at midnight.

Guests who purchase a ticket to the concert have the option to reserve a bowling alley for up to eight people, too. Prices for a lane rapidly rise for the later evening slots, so book early. 

Tatiana Russian Nightclub in Brighton Beach

The New Year's festivities at Tatiana Restaurant are canceled in 2020–2021, but you can pre-order a special Russian meal to pick up on December 31, 2020, and enjoy at home.

Book your big group of friends in at Tatiana's, a Russian restaurant and nightclub located on the Brighton Beach Boardwalk. It's one of a handful of Russian nightclubs that have incredible floor shows every weekend. For New Year's Eve, Tatiana's does it up even more, so you can expect a completely over-the-top performance with live music and dancing. Be sure to secure your tickets far in advance as the nightclub sells out early. Consider reserving a car service, too, because hailing a taxi in Brighton Beach late at night can be a challenge.

Union Pool in Williamsburg

The New Year's Eve show at Union Pool is canceled in 2020–2021.

Revelers seeking a more chill environment will love this low-key Williamsburg dive bar. Tap your toe to some tunes while toasting a glass of champagne or one of Union Pool's specialty cocktails. If the weather agrees, take a seat on the spacious outdoor patio and make friends with the local hipsters. Tickets are typically only available at the door so arrive early to snag a spot near the stage.