Entering the New Year Beneath a Blue Whale: The Natural History Museum’s Wild New Year’s Eve Party

In London, New Year’s Eve usually splits into two camps:

those willing to get lost in the crowds, and those who say “let’s keep it quiet at home this year.”

But there’s a third option:

dancing into the new year in the empty corridors of a museum, under the skeleton of a blue whale.

The Natural History Museum’s legendary New Year’s Eve party – sold out every year – is set to be one of the most talked-about events of 2025. This isn’t just a party; it’s a chance to discover what happens when an iconic venue sheds its daytime skin and slips into night-time glamour.

The Museum, the Night, and a 4.5-Tonne Whale

For one night, Hintze Hall – the museum’s most breathtaking space – belongs entirely to you.

Look up and you’re eye-to-eye with Hope: the colossal 4.5-tonne skeleton of a blue whale.

What other party in the city can offer that view?

Galleries Open After Dark

The evening isn’t limited to the dance floor. With your wristband you can roam the galleries that stay open exclusively for the party:

• Mammal Gallery: a species atlas stretching from polar bears to pygmy shrews.
• Earth Hall: a fiery entrance stage where the planet tells its own story.
• Dinosaur Gallery: no explanation needed – everyone’s favourite.
• Wildlife Photographer of the Year: a mini-exhibition of the world’s best nature photography.
• Space: Could Life Exist Beyond Earth?: a nocturnal journey that cracks open the door to the universe.

All of it far from the daytime crowds, drink in hand…

Entertainment: From Silent Disco to Live Animals

Yes, you read that right. In partnership with ethical animal-care specialists ZooLab, the party even hosts “live” guests.

• Alongside that:
• Silent disco
• Live music
• Cash bars
• Exhibitions open all night

—all keeping the energy high from start to finish.

VIP Tickets: A More Exclusive Night in the Museum’s Hidden Corners

For those wanting to make the evening even more special, a limited number of VIP tickets are available, offering:

Private bar access

Extra live performances

A calmer, curated space

A word of warning: these sell out fast every year.

New Year’s Eve: Party at the Museum

📅  31 December 2025, 20:00 – 01:30

📍 Natural History Museum, South Kensington