The New Year is just days away, and though Qatar itself isn’t big on end-of-the-year celebrations, there are still some fun and exciting ways for residents to welcome 2015.
Notably, Jan. 1 is usually declared a banking holiday, though it will still be a work day for most people.
For those still looking for ways to bring in the New Year, here are some of the events going on around town:
Musical performances
Lebanese talent
La Cigale will welcome singers Myriam Fares and Rabih Baroud during a night showcasing Lebanese talent at the Al Wajba Ballroom. The performance will kick off at 10:30pm, with doors opening at 9pm.
Tickets are on sale at Virgin Megastore branches at Landmark or Villaggio malls, as well as the Pearl-Qatar, or online here. Prices range from QR800 to QR1,400, depending on the seat’s proximity to the stage.
Those interested can also call La Cigale on 4428-8177 or 4428-8288.
Fire and Ice
At the Radisson Blu hotel, visitors can dine and dance to “The Ice Band,” who hail from Holland. For a price of QR660, party-goers can enjoy an international gourmet buffet and selected beverages.
Doors open at 8pm, but those attending must be 21 years and older. For more information, call Radisson Blu on 4428-1428 or 4419-5000.
Family fun
Desi circus
Families can spend their New Year’s Eve enjoying a circus themed dance party dubbed “The Great Indian Circus” at the Marriott Doha hotel.
Indian DJ Zamaika will be working the decks while circus acts show off their skills on the hotel’s beachfront. The outdoor area is set to appear like a circus arena, with acrobats, clowns, jugglers, stilt walkers, camels and street shows all providing entertainment.
The event begins at 9pm, and tickets cost QR150/person, though children under the age of five years old are free. Tickets bought on the night of the party will cost QR200, and VIP tickets cost QR250.
Tickets can be purchased online via Q-tickets here.
Sealine
Face painting, mascots, fire dancers, a kids’ play area, DJs and a bonfire are all to be enjoyed at Sealine Beach Resort’s “All White Party.”
For a cost of QR200, visitors will receive entry to the event, one signature drink and free transportation to and from the resort. Children aged 11 years and below can enter for free.
The party kicks off at 9pm at the grass lawn area near the beach, and tickets can be bought online via Q-tickets here.
Dining
For those who prefer to enjoy a quieter evening, there’s a ton of special dining options on offer this New Year’s Eve, the majority of them taking place at hotels. Here are our picks:
White and gold at Ipanema, Marriott Marquis
At the Marriott’s Brazilian Churrascaria (char-grill) restaurant, diners are asked to turn up dressed in white and gold and take advantage of music by Brazilian band Brazuqa. Throughout the night ‘endless’ servings of sizzling meat will also be brought to each table.
The festivities will begin at 6pm with prices starting at QR395. More information can be found here, or call the hotel on 4419-6100.
Greek plate smashing at Mykonos, Intercontinental Doha
Those looking for something different can enjoy a four-course meal at the Intercontinental Doha while listening to performances by a Greek Bouzouki band.
As the clock strikes for 2015, diners can also provide their own entertainment by taking part in a traditional, Greek plate smashing session at midnight. The winner is said to win a “Vasilopita” cake.
The evening will begin at 7pm. The meal costs QR395/person and includes one Kir Royale cocktail if desired. For more information, call 4484-4444 or 4484-4074.
Four-piece band at Aramede, Crowne Plaza
A gala dinner buffet and cooking stations are on offer at Crowne Plaza’s international restaurant. A four-piece band will also be providing enjoyment for diners throughout the night.
From 8pm onwards, buffet-goers can indulge for QR325. Those also wanting bubbly can enjoy selected beverages and a welcome drink for QR395. For more information, call 4408-7788.
Turkish at Agora, Grand Heritage
Those wishing to taste Turkish flavors this New Year’s Eve can enjoy a five-course set menu for QR350 at Aspire Zone’s Grand Heritage while listening to a Turkish band throughout the night.
A la carte options are also available. For more information, call 4445-5555.
Festive snack at Tea Lounge, Intercontinental Doha
Those who want something lighter can relax with live piano entertainment, cheese and drinks for QR120 at the Intercon’s Tea Lounge.
Partying
Like dining options, the number of parties taking place around town are plentiful. Again, the majority of them are being hosted at hotels. Here are some of them:
Motown at Champions, Marriott Marquis
Motown lovers are in for a treat this New Year, as live Motown melodies and disco lights are set to take center stage at Champions at the Marriot Marquis.
The night will kick off at 5pm, with an entrance fee of QR150. The fee includes a house beverage. For more information call 4419-6100.
Winter wonderland at Dunes, Grand Hyatt
Dunes is set to bring snow to Qatar this year with snow machines, snowflakes and spiced wines making their way into the lounge. Live music will also be on offer for those who want to take a more relaxed approach to their evening.
Table reservations are currently being taken for a cost of QR250. For more information, call 7021-8094.
Guys and Dolls at Lincoln Center, The St. Regis
Those who are fond of dressing up, and are fans of the musical Guys and Dolls, can enter a costume competition at the Lincoln Center by simply dressing up as their favorite musical star.
There will also be live music on the dance floor from Emmy Award winning jazz vocalist Gregory Generet alongside Dominick Farinacci.
The night kicks off at 9pm. Entrance costs QR200 and includes a glass of bubbly. For more information call 4446-0226.
80’s night at The Lounge, Kempinksi
Finish off 2014 reliving the 1980’s at Kempinski. Party-goers are promised a night of ‘disco fever’ and an open bar from 8pm onwards for a fee of QR895. For more information call 4405-3325.
How are you planning to spend the final hours of 2014? Thoughts?
