Could Newquay Become Cornwall’s New Year’s Eve Capital Again?

Newquay is preparing for a major revival of its famous New Year’s Eve celebrations as Newquay Business Improvement District (BID) unveils a five year plan to bring back the atmosphere the town was once known for.

For decades, New Year’s Eve in Newquay drew crowds in fancy dress, filled the streets with music and created a family friendly celebration that stretched well into the night. According to the release, the aim now is to restore that energy while reflecting the town’s modern identity as a safe, vibrant and family focused destination.

A long term plan to rebuild New Year’s Eve

As part of its new term, Newquay BID is committing to rebuilding New Year’s Eve as a key annual moment for the town. The plan focuses on boosting footfall, supporting businesses and celebrating the community across both daytime and nighttime economies.

The release states that this is not about returning to the pre pandemic stereotype of Newquay as a party town. Instead, the goal is to enhance the balance of daytime appeal and a well managed nightlife.

Newquay BID plans to work with venues to coordinate enhanced activities, encourage town wide involvement, support early evening family celebrations, strengthen nighttime events in a positive way and build momentum year on year.

Businesses show early excitement

The release highlights strong enthusiasm from local venues.

Sailors has already announced a major themed New Year’s Eve event featuring extensive fancy dress. The Central has also shared its excitement, recalling the atmosphere that once filled Central Square at midnight with fireworks, crowds and music.

Newquay BID is encouraging businesses to collaborate on themes, entertainment and creative ideas such as live bands, themed parties, silent discos, foam parties and coordinated fancy dress.

The Great Newquay Pub Fancy Dress Competition

To launch the revival, Newquay BID will introduce The Great Newquay Pub Fancy Dress Competition in 2025.

Bars, pubs, restaurants and venues can choose a theme and dress their teams for a town wide celebration. The winning venue will receive a promotional spotlight on Newquay BID’s social media channels and the title of Newquay’s New Year’s Eve Champions.

Safety at the centre of the plan

Safety remains a key focus. Newquay BID has worked closely with Devon and Cornwall Police, including Inspector Steve Johnson, to put measures in place.

According to the release, these include an increased police presence at peak times, the Newquay Rangers programme funded by the Police and Crime Commissioner, ShopWatch and PubWatch radios, access to body worn cameras for staff where needed and Newquay’s advanced CCTV network.

Newquay is also the first town in Cornwall to have a full Best Bar None accredited town centre collective, recognising responsible management and customer safety.

Looking ahead

The long term vision includes exploring ways to link Newquay BID’s upcoming loyalty card app with New Year’s Eve events. This could create venue trails, promotions and themed experiences to help visitors enjoy multiple events during the night.

Businesses are encouraged to share their plans with Newquay BID so they can be promoted across the Love Newquay and Newquay BID platforms.

A call to the community

Newquay BID invites residents, visitors and returning holidaymakers to get involved, dress up and help bring back the atmosphere the town has been known for.

“Newquay has changed in many positive ways since the pre Covid years,” Newquay BID Manager Mark said. “We’re not trying to turn the clock back, we’re creating a New Year’s Eve that’s exciting, family friendly, vibrant, safe and uniquely Newquay. This is just the beginning of a long term plan to make Newquay the New Year’s Eve capital of Cornwall once again.”

Newquay’s hospitality sector continues to grow with new bars, restaurants, cocktail venues and clubs preparing to welcome visitors. Newquay Town Council will once again host the traditional midnight firework display over the harbour to close the night.