Family-friendly places to celebrate New Year’s Eve

From the island that has banned fireworks through to citywide torchlight processions and European carnivals in Hong Kong, these are the best places for families to celebrate NYE.

For kids who love magic

The Torchlight Procession through the centre of Edinburgh actually takes place on 30th December, but the early start does nothing to detract from the event’s theatricality. As thousands of people carry lit torches through the city, street musicians and drummers keep the beat until the crowd reaches the awe-inspiring fireworks display at Holyrood Park. And you can keep the magic going by taking the whole family on a Harry Potter tour of the city on New Year’s Eve itself.

For kids who love a show

The fireworks displays along Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront provide more than enough entertainment for an evening. But this is a city that likes to go big, with celebrations taking place across the city including carnival performances and the Kirstenbosch New Year’s Eve Concert. The festivities start at 5pm, and those in search of a break from the crowds can take a picnic up to Table Mountain. This option provides a great view of the fireworks and, if you want to stay nearby, The Crystal Apartments plenty of family rooms.

For kids who love fireworks

The Chinese New Year may take place in January, but Hong Kong still goes all out on 31st December. The evening starts with an elaborate firework display above Victoria Harbour, which sends giant shimmering dragons swooping across the city’s skyline. Families will also love The Great European Carnival, an annual extravaganza that includes rides, games, food stalls and circus performers. For a unique view of the fireworks, visit the Hotel Intercontinental.

For kids who don’t like fireworks

The Dutch island of Texel has come to the rescue for those of us who will just never enjoy fireworks no matter how mesmerising the display. The Netherlands is a country famously fond of fireworks, especially on New Year’s Eve, but the Texel authorities declared their island a firework-free zone for 2017. You can book the whole family into a self-catered cottage like Het Juttershuussie and spend 31st January hiking, exploring and getting ready for the new year.

For kids with lots of energy

Entertaining kids during celebrations that sometimes seem to cater only for adults doesn’t have to be a challenge. Resorts like Legoland or the Great Wolf Creek Lodges offer plenty of distractions for children and relaxation for parents.