2016; the year of the unthinkable, the year of the unimaginable. From Brexit to Trump, we have seen some eccentric events unfold, attesting to the worlds ever-changing, unpredictable nature. In turn we have experienced an interesting year, leaving us plenty to ponder and debate. Not all is doomed, however, as we have a New Year fast approaching and this of course means planning our festivities to welcome it in with open arms, starting afresh. New Year’s Eve can often be an underwhelming event, we feel an underlying pressure fuelled by superstition that if it were not a hit, your forthcoming year would inevitably follow in its disappointing footsteps. We think the perfect ingredient for a New Year’s Eve well spent should start with prime, ‘top drawer’ company, and from there all else will fall neatly into place no matter what you chose to be doing as the clock strikes midnight. With this in mind, we’ve rounded up a few quirky, unique events taking place in London town this 31st December for you and your mates to soak up the very last of the year just passed.
See the splendid Royal Festival Hall as it transforms into one retro time capsule through a host of pop up stores and celebrate the idiosyncratic decades in all their glory. Starting off with the 1930’s and ‘40s The Torch Club blasting entertainment and swingin’ sounds. Catapult into the 1950’s and ‘60s themed jive bar Let It Rock. The Style Studio for 1970’s and ‘80s Tiki bar, live rock and roll, and of course sweet disco tunes. Last but not least Bar Bonkers pays homage to a mixture of late ‘80’s and ‘90s. The event offers various Three-Course meal and buffet tickets if you need some extra party fuel for dancing the night away. The pinnacle of the evening takes place on the terrace as the party transports to the terrace to watch the fireworks blast over the Thames. All in all a rocking end to 2016 as we roll into the New Year.
The Details
Dress Code: Pick a decade & dress glamorously.
Where: Royal Albert Hall @ Southbank Centre from 7pm
£: 79-119
There is a distinct air of sophistication at a Black Tie event, everything is a little more thrilling when we are dressed to the nines. That is why A Black Tie Affair at The Piano Works warehouse is a favorable pick this NYE. Three-course dining options are made available as you sit back, relax and lend your ears to your own personal pianist and accompanying musicians taking requests from the audience all evening. A fun, intimate and sophisticated evening to welcome in the new year.
The Details:
Dress Code: Formal/Black Tie
Where: The Piano Works – Farringdon
£: 15-50 (Various opening times and ticket packages)
Step back into the 1920’s where faux fur, velvet shawls and smoking jackets were to boot and re visit an era of glamour and elegance in an exceptionally fitting venue; London’s famous Sky Garden. Tall glass windows offering an impeccable view of London and a forest of tropical greens surround you as you mingle amongst superb fine dining. Dance the evening away before a generous host of musicians including the Juke Joints, 3 & J & The Rest followed by a late night DJ to ensure 2016/2017 ends and begins on the dance floor.
The Details:
Dress Code: 1920’s/Great Gatsby Theme
Where: Sky Garden, Monument, from 5:30
£: 165
4. ELECTRONIC SESSIONS BOAT PARTY
Where better to be than front and centre boating the Thames whilst you overlook London’s exquisite fireworks display? The Electronic Sessions boat party is for the avid partygoers,providing the perfect celebratory atmosphere with breathtaking views of London thrown in too, of course. Dance, mingle and party the last evening of 2016 away with a host of impressive DJ acts at your service.
The Details:
Dress Code: Dress to impress
Where: The Golden Flame: Temple Pier, from 7pm
£: 115-125
5. COMEDY NIGHT & AFTER PARTY @ THE WATER RATS
If something low key is on the cards and you’re not immune to the joys of laughter,an evening of stand up comedy will keep you smiling into 2017 as you watch Markus Birdman, Alistair Barrie and Luke Toulson take stage at the multi-award winning Amused Moose Comedy theatre. There are plenty of food options and drinks “under a fiver”. Post-show, the theatre throws an after party featuring a DJmixing tunes into the early morning of Jan 1st.
The Details:
Dress Code: Dress to impress
Where: The Water Rats – Kings Cross, from 8:00
£: 15-25
However you chose to spend your evening this NYE, may you say solute 2016 in style with only the best by your side. Here’s to bringing in 2017 in high spirits. Best wishes from the Look Mate Team.
written by Alexandra Stuart
