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One of the most scenic and exciting places Canada holds is Vancouver. Beautifully tranquil yet vibrant, it is no wonder that Vancouver has been named "Best city in the Americas" by Conde Nast Traveler magazine in 2004, 2005 and 2006. The multicultural atmosphere invites visitors from all corners of the globe, ready to vacation and party while enjoying the pleasant elements of the city. On a big holiday like New Years Eve, Vancouver becomes a haven for all people with the idea of celebration on their minds.
In a city that thrives on the diversity of its people, the nightlife reflects it. With an array of clubs, lounges, bars, restaurants, music venues and casinos, there is no room for complaints. For those looking to ring 2008 as a part of the hot, young scene of Vancouver, your options are nearly endless. For a complete listing of everything to do on New Year's Eve in Vancouver as far as nightclubs go, check out NewYearsEve.com, the biggest website for parties and events on the most celebrated holiday of the year.
For those looking to end 2007 in a more unique way only Vancouver can bring, there are still a lot of options open to you besides clubbing. Since the area is so widely known for its natural beauty, there are a few companies hosting New Years Eve parties on the water. Surrounded by the English Bay and holding the Fraser River, Vancouver is often best appreciated aboard a yacht—it’s also one of the most glamorous ways to celebrate the New Year! The Vancouver Boat Charters provides a sophisticated way to sightsee, dance, and eat on one of their modern ships. With your own reserved table, a 3 course meal is prepared; after you have danced hours away, there is a champagne toast at midnight, including party favors and a perfect view of fireworks. This event has limited seating, so it is best to book early. For more information, contact 604.980.5458. For a little more laid-back start to 2008, but still from the splendor of the Fraser River, there will be a New Years Eve cruise aboard the favored Vancouver Paddle Wheeler. Enjoy the tour and dining on the historic river, from only $79.95 a person. Those who wish to explore this but prefer a bit more privacy can reserve a small, comfortable room for up to 18 persons, at only $89.95 each. Both choices last from 9 pm until 1 am, so you will be guaranteed to begin 2008 in an unforgettable way. To hold your spot on board this year, visit vancouverpaddlewheeler.com/newyears.htm.
Since the bodies of water in and around Vancouver are so influential, it only seems natural that the important people of the city immerse themselves in them. The Vancouver Polar Bear Club, one of the largest and oldest of its kind, started on New Years Day in 1920. Taken place at precisely 2:30 pm every year since then, the New Year in Vancouver has not truly begun until the members of the club have plunged into the near-freezing English Bay. The nearly all-New-Years-Day event also includes costumes and memorial 100 yard swim race in honor of founder Peter Pantages. In order to be a part of the momentous event, you must register first, and then you’re an official member for life. For more information, log on to http://vancouver.ca/parks/events/polarbear/history.htm
Another title that Vancouver boasts is being host to the longest running poetry slam, taking place on New Years Eve 2007. This event will be at Café Deux Soleils, located at 2096 Commercial Drive, from 8 pm until 11 pm. Open to poets of all ages and all styles of poetry, there is plenty to listen to, and even bring your own work to display. Redefining the way many people celebrate the New Year, you can stop by or stay the entire time, and still be able to wake up without a hangover on January 1st. Or perhaps prepare yourself for a dive into the Bay with the Polar Bear Club? Ending before the countdown, you can even hit up one of the parties at the local nightlife spots. To learn more about the Vancouver Poetry Slam, visit http://vancouverpoetryhouse.com/new-years-eve-slam.
Another activity in Vancouver that is truly unlike anywhere else is at the Vancouver Aboriginal Friendship Centre. The annual New Years Eve Pow Wow will be in the city on December 30 and 31st, at 1607 Hastings Street. The “clean and sober” event is one of the most anticipated in the community, and a true family celebration. Tables are only $30 each, and no one will be disappointed. For more information, call 604.257.4844.
If a private corner or banquette in a public venue isn’t quiet or clandestine enough for you and your party, Vancouver offers more than just a table to rent. From condos and apartments to sprawling mansions, Home Away Rentals (http://www.homeaway.com/index.cfm/tgt/new-years-vacation-rentals) suggests accommodations for the holiday. You can host your own New Years Eve party at a mansion with sleeping arrangements for up to 24 guests, or have a cozy, calm celebration in a $200 a night apartment. Whatever your preference: mountaintop cabins or beach bungalows, Home Away will get you set up with something for a custom-tailored New Years Eve.
There are still plenty of original parties and events in Vancouver if temporary residence isn’t your thing. Last New Year’s marked the 48th anniversary of victory of revolutionary forces in Cuba, and it was celebrated. Coinciding with the New Year, the Vancouver Communities in Solidarity with Cuba (VCSC) held the third annual party with the Free the Cuban Five committee. Beginning the night with the influential film “Blogne” and including first-hand stories and the account of the actual victory by the Rebel fighters, there was still time for music and dancing. The fundraiser was established with the goal of sending at least 15 people from Vancouver to Cuba for the summer. Working with the Che Guevera Volunteer Work Brigade and Pastors for Peace Caravan, the successful fete is an anticipated event for New Years Eve 2008 in Vancouver. Complete with speakers, DJ spinning, and food, the countdown to midnight will not end the fun. To participate this year, visit vancubasolidarity.com.
The “Best city in the Americas” is also one of the most exciting during New Years. There are more things to do in such a varied and electrifying city. With easily accessible, affordable, and adventurous events in all avenues, you will want to come back (or stay) year after year.