New Year’s Eve in Groningen 2025: your guide to the best parties, free events and countdown spots

As the days get shorter and the December lights return to the city, it won't be long before it's time to wrap up the year. Once again, Groningen is bursting with parties, gatherings, free events and memorable places to countdown. Whether you love dancing into the morning, prefer a calmer start to the new year, or just want to see what’s happening around town — this guide helps you find your perfect New Year’s Eve.

Fireworks in Groningen: what is allowed?

Fireworks remain a tradition for many people, but it’s important to know where they are allowed. The municipality has designated various firework-free zones to protect people, animals and buildings. Want to see exactly where fireworks are allowed? Check the official map on the municipality's website: gemeente.groningen.nl/oud-en-nieuw.

Free and accessible activities on New Year's Eve

Countdown on the Vismarkt – Goud en Nieuw

One of the best free options is the public countdown on the Vismarkt. During Goud en Nieuw, the square fills with surprising elements: three glass containers, each with its own atmosphere, DJs, art installations and short performances. It’s a unique experience to step into the new year together in the heart of the city with thousands of others — no tickets, no barriers.

New Year at Café De Prins

If you’re looking for a warm and cozy place after the countdown, Café De Prins opens its doors from 01:00. It’s a friendly and relaxed spot to toast the new year, catch up with friends and ease your way into 2026.

New Year’s Dips on January 1st

For the brave among us, several New Year’s dips take place in and around Groningen. A refreshing start to 2026 in the most literal way. A full overview of all locations is available here.

The most popular New Year’s Eve parties in Groningen 

EM2 — New Year’s Extravaganza 2026

Location: Suikerlaan 6
Time: 22:00 – 06:00

EM2 is known for its large-scale, creative New Year celebrations. Their New Year’s Extravaganza is a night filled with live music, DJ sets and a warm, colorful atmosphere. The Suikerterrein always feels slightly detached from the rest of the city during nights like this, giving it an almost festival-like vibe. A great choice if you want to step into the new year in an energetic and creative environment.

The Grand Night Out (& New)

If you love disco, house classics and a stylish night full of sparkle, The Grand Night Out is a perfect match. People visit not only to dance but also to enjoy the ambiance, the décor and the feeling of celebrating the night together. A great pick for anyone who wants to welcome 2026 in festive style.

KOPJEK — New Year’s Eve 2026 (Drafbaan Groningen)

Location: Concourslaan 10
Time: 00:30 – 08:00

KOPJEK remains a leading name in Groningen’s electronic nightlife. Their NYE edition is one of the most energetic parties in town. This year the event takes place at the Drafbaan. With strong lighting design, powerful electronic sets and an impressive lineup — including BRYBRY, Fantastic Man, Fenna, Polly, Rosa Red, Sam Alfred and Sedef Adası — it’s the go-to event for fans of house, techno and electronic surprises.

NYE @ The Market – The Market Hotel

Location: Grote Markt
Time: 22:00 – 02:00

At the Grote Markt, The Market Hotel offers a stylish celebration with a DJ, live music, a photobooth and, of course, traditional Dutch oliebollen. Around midnight you can step right onto the square to join the citywide countdown. A wonderful option if you enjoy a lively but refined setting in the heart of the city.

MISFIT – NYE Glitter Edition at WIJCK Groningen

Location: WIJCK
Date: December 31, 2025

WIJCK may be relatively new, but it has quickly become a versatile venue where atmosphere comes first. During the MISFIT – NYE Glitter Edition, WIJCK transforms into a queer-friendly night full of glitter, freedom and self-expression. With karaoke, great drink arrangements and a warm, welcoming crowd, it’s the kind of place where anyone can feel at home.

These are just a few highlights of what Groningen offers this New Year’s Eve. See the full overview here: 

NYE events 2025

Where will you celebrate New Year’s Eve 2025?

With so many great venues, unique events and special traditions, Groningen is the perfect city to celebrate New Year’s Eve. Choose your moment, dress up for the night and let the celebrations begin. 2026 starts here.