A new study has revealed that raves are the most popular way for Brits to ring in the New Year, topping the list of events people are most likely to search for when celebrating. Ticket supplier Skiddle gathered data on the most searched New Year’s Eve events across the UK and found that rave parties come out on top, with 598 monthly searches.

The research also highlighted the cities where each event type is most popular. Raves are the go-to celebration for partygoers in 36 cities, including London, Birmingham, and Manchester, making it the top event choice in these areas.

Cinema lovers are also keen to celebrate New Year’s Eve with a movie, ranking second with 459 monthly searches. Cinemas are particularly popular in cities such as Bristol, Leeds, and Cardiff, where New Year's Eve screenings are a go-to tradition.

In third place are clubs and nightclubs, with 245 searches each month. While less popular than raves and cinemas overall, nightclubs are a top event choice in Luton and West Bromwich, where revellers hit the dance floors to welcome the New Year.

Concerts follow closely in fourth place, averaging 220 monthly searches. Concerts are a favourite in Rotherham and Worthing, where live performances are a prime choice for ringing in the new year.

Fancy dress parties make an appearance in fifth place, with 155 monthly searches. Popular in Bournemouth, these quirky events bring out the creative side of those celebrating.

Live music events, including tribute acts and performances at local venues like pubs and halls, are in sixth place, gathering 151 monthly searches. Hove residents are particularly keen on these intimate New Year’s Eve celebrations.

The rising trend of self-care is also reflected in the study, as New Year’s spa days come in at seventh place, with 150 monthly searches. Spa day celebrations are most popular in Wakefield, Oldham, and Gateshead, where relaxation and rejuvenation are key to welcoming the year ahead.

New Year’s Eve festivals round out the top eight, with 142 monthly searches. Cities like Exeter, Middlesbrough, and Nottingham have a strong preference for larger, festival-style celebrations.

Casinos rank ninth, with 113 monthly searches, as revellers in Coventry lead the way in searching for a night of gaming and luck.

Finally, operas take the tenth spot, with 58 monthly searches on average. Birmingham is the go-to city for opera lovers celebrating New Year’s Eve.

Other notable events searched for on New Year’s Eve include pub quizzes, theatre shows or musicals, escape rooms, and ABBA-themed nights.

Here’s a quick look at the top 10 most popular New Year’s Eve events:

With a diverse range of events to choose from, it’s clear that Brits have varied ways of celebrating the start of the new year, from lively raves to relaxing spa days.

• Rave - 598 monthly searches
• Cinema - 459 monthly searches
• Club - 245 monthly searches
• Concert - 220 monthly searches
• Fancy dress - 155 monthly searches
• Live music - 151 monthly searches
• Spa day - 150 monthly searches
• Festival - 142 monthly searches
• Casino - 113 monthly searches
• Opera - 58 monthly searches

Lisa Lewis, Senior Marketing Manager at Skiddle, has commented on the findings: “New Year’s Eve is all about celebration and creating unforgettable memories, and it is fascinating to see such a variety in how Brits choose to mark the occasion.

“While high-energy events like raves remain the top choice for their electrifying atmosphere, more relaxed options such as cinema trips, spa days, and even operas have also captured the imagination. This mix of lively and low-key preferences highlights how diverse New Year’s Eve celebrations can be, offering something special for everyone.”

Author: Adam Bailey

Adam is a regular contributor for established press release distribution website Release-News.com. He writes on a wide range of topics including music.