As you’ll remember, New Year’s Eve 2020 and 2021 had one glaring omissions: the world-famous firework display. Well, it’s back this year for late-night revellers to gaze at when the clocks strike 12. You didn’t get a ticket? No bother, you can still catch a brilliant view of the sparkling showers from Somerset House at their annual shoobz.
If you thought festivals were reserved for the summer months, then think again: Somerset House are pulling out all the stops for the last hours of this topsy-turvy year. One hell of a night partnered with Moët & Chandon is on the way,
As it’s winter, and as it’s Somerset House, we’ll just come straight and answer “yes” to that first thought on your lips–the ice rink will be open for you to skate your way out of 2022. Plus, as a boogie is always the way to see out the year, DJs will take up centre stage on the Portico Balcony overlooking the courtyard.
Catch live sets from Soho Radio and Ru Paul’s Drag Race UK star Jonbers Blonde, who will take you through to the early hours, with Foundation FM hosting a party in the east wing.
As midnight approaches, Somerset House will invited guests to head out to their River Terrace to catch a view of the dazzling fireworks display, before cracking on with the dancing.
You might only be thinking about the entertainment, but there’s also an eclectic set of food options, including a trip to Switzerland in the form of Chalet Suisse (by Jimmy Garcia, of Jimmy’s Lodge fame), boasting a menu of festive favourites including traditional and vegan fondues, plus a free glass of Moët on arrival. Plus, there’s the Dipna Anand at Somerset House where you can indulge in brilliant and authentic Indian flavours – pre-booking to the south wing restaurant is recommended.
It wouldn’t be New Year’s Eve if there weren’t brilliant tipples to top it all off. Guests can enjoy a glass of Moët & Chandon Champagne or a winter cocktail: the Mulled Apple Spritz has piqued my interest, but there’s also a fireside royale to sip between skating breaks.
2023 can’t come soon enough, and we’d struggle to think of many better places to welcome it in. Tickets cost £75 and are on sale here.