For the first time in 95 years, New York City’s The Knickerbocker Hotel is presenting an exclusive New Year’s Eve celebration to welcome 2016, located just 150 feet from the world-famous Waterford Crystal Ball.
Historically, The Knickerbocker was a prominent New Year’s Eve destination from around 1906 to 1921. The hotel was so popular on December 31 that society pages routinely published the names of guests who had reserved tables. A few noteworthy historical details:
- The hotel always kept at least 50 tuxedos available for guests who arrived without formal attire
- On December 31, 1907, nearly 16,000 people passed through the hotel during the course of the evening
- In 1908, custom-made Champagne glasses were imported from Paris for a newly introduced French peach Champagne cocktail
- By tradition, the hotel would fall quiet in the moments just before midnight; then the house lights would come up and the crowd would join in singing “Auld Lang Syne”
This year’s celebration begins with dinner and dancing at Charlie Palmer at the Knick, the hotel’s fourth-floor restaurant. The specially designed menu draws on classic, 1920s-inspired dishes, offering a period-appropriate dining experience. After dinner, guests can watch the ball drop from St. Cloud, the hotel’s rooftop bar, which provides prime views of the festivities below.
Entertainment for the evening includes live performers such as fire dancers and a DJ to keep the energy high throughout the night. Package options are available for couples, with prices starting at $2,890. These packages include access to The Knickerbocker’s black-tie gala, admission to New Year’s Day brunch, and a one-night stay at the hotel, creating a seamless overnight celebration for those seeking a refined, on-site experience.
The Knickerbocker’s return to hosting a signature New Year’s Eve event reflects both its historic legacy and its modern luxury offerings, combining period-inspired culinary choices, rooftop views of the ball drop, and curated entertainment to create an elegant start to the new year.