There is always pressure to have a good time on New Year’s Eve, but don’t worry, you WILL! Celebrating the beginning of 2013 in Buenos Aires will be unforgettable regardless of whether you decide to spend a low-key night with friends and recently met fellow travellers, or if you decide to splash some cash on a glamorous gala, or a fancy tango show and dinner.
Below you will find few ideas on where to spend the last moments of 2012 and welcome 2013 in the “Cultural Capital of South America”. First I have to warn you: even though Buenos Aires is one of the most bustling cities in the southern hemisphere, surprisingly during summer when the heat wave comes, porteños leave the busy capital and enjoy the sun in one of many beach locations in Argentina and Uruguay. Therefore, as it also applies to New Year’s Eve, it results in the city being vastly deserted. It is also worth noting out that, unlike in Europe, most locals tend to spend that day with their families and friends at home, and start to go out very late at night. For some, who prefer less crowded places it might be an advantage, others might find it disappointing. Nonetheless, Buenos Aires has a lot to offer for the New Year’s Eve celebrations!
The most natural option for spending the last night of the year in Buenos Aires is at the Tango Show. Most of the tango houses prepare unique shows especially for that occasion, during which not only do you get to enjoy watching some brilliant tango performances while sipping Champaign, but also you can delight in some exquisite food. Prices vary depending on the complexity of service from USD$250 for a show at El Viejo Almacén to a premium price of USD$690 for an unforgettable gala at the Faena Hotel in Puerto Madero. Those who can’t afford this price tag, but have passion for tango and rather than watching the professionals prefer to show off their own moves on the dance floor, there is nothing better than milongas. As many places close down for public holidays, it is crucial to check the availability in advance.
Another alternative to those who like to party are various nightclubs (boliches). Check out Crobar Club, which puts up a special New Year’s show and hires some of the best DJs (entrance to John Digweed’s gig will set you back by AR$300) or Niceto Club which organizes “la Fiesta de Piso Compartido Edicion Especial Año Nuevo” for as little as AR$60.
Whichever options you choose don’t forget to step outside at midnight and enjoy a beautiful display of fireworks that will illuminate the skies above Buenos Aires. Make sure you organize your transport in advance as buses and tube tend to be very unreliable and taxis are in such a demand, that it is almost impossible to catch one (especially around 1am). As there is not much time left, try to book everything as soon as possible, as tickets tend to sell out very quickly!
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!
