Moscow, Russia
The Fest: The party depends on your net worth. The extremely well-to-do squire themselves at pricey hot spots like Bosco; the rest pack the squares such as Red Square or Pushkin, for rock concerts and laser shows. What Makes It Special: Russians exchange gifts on New Year's: It's the day when the Russian Santa Claus, Grandfather Frost, is supposed to visit. The Garb: Think earmuffs. The Libation: Shampanskoye! (Not sanctioned by France.) Officials have banned liquor from Red Square—it might have something to do with the local penchant for throwing empty vodka bottles into the air come midnight. Ideal For: An exotically different beginning to the year. The Next Day: A hungover tourist might stop back by Red Square to check out Lenin's embalmed body. At least somebody looks worse off. More Info: www.visitrussia.org.uk