12 Countdown Events to Celebrate the Arrival of 2024

Whether you’re cozied up with a loved one this New Year’s Eve or recovering from a hangover on January 1, you’ll undoubtedly appreciate some high-quality entertainment to accompany your holiday weekend. In this list, we’ve curated television’s top 12 New Year’s specials, spanning from captivating dramas to family-friendly sitcoms (and a few less family-friendly ones). Tune in, and let the New Year’s vibes envelop you.

The Annual New Year’s Rockin’ Eve Hosted by Ryan Seacrest

“If you happen to be at home on New Year’s Eve, why not indulge in some takeout and catch the iconic ball drop on TV? This broadcast includes New Year’s Eve festivities in New York, Los Angeles, and Puerto Rico, along with musical performances, firework displays, dance parties, and the ever-present Ryan Seacrest. It’s the perfect recipe for a classic celebration. While it may seem a bit cliché, the tradition never loses its charm. For added fun, consider turning it into a drinking game—take a shot every time you spot someone daringly underdressed for the weather.”

Gossip Girl, Episode 11 of Season 5: ‘The End of the Affair?’

“Just because we can’t be together doesn’t mean I won’t love you.” Prepare for an emotional rollercoaster, as this holiday-themed episode leans towards the poignant. Through a series of flashbacks, Blair (Leighton Meester) shares with Serena (Blake Lively) the aftermath of the car crash involving Chuck (Ed Westwick), shedding light on why Blair is set to marry Louis (Hugo Becker). Of course, true to Gossip Girl style, the episode features a lavish party—this time, set against the backdrop of New Year’s Eve.”

30 Rock, Episode 9 of Season 4: ‘Klaus and Greta’

There’s a wonderfully perfect touch to the way 30 Rock tackles the holidays, and this episode is a shining example. Following a drunken New Year’s Eve voicemail to his childhood love, Nancy (Julianne Moore), Jack (Alec Baldwin) is on a mission to erase the message at all costs.

Simultaneously, Jenna (Jane Krakowski) initiates a faux relationship with James Franco (playing himself) for publicity, only to discover that Franco is genuinely in love with a body pillow. Suffice it to say, you’ll find yourself shedding tears of joy by the episode’s conclusion.

Modern Family, Episode 11 of Season 4: ‘New Year’s Eve’

Jay (Ed O’Neill) extends an invitation to Gloria (Sofía Vergara), Claire (Julie Bowen), Phil (Ty Burrell), Mitch (Jesse Tyler Ferguson), and Cam (Eric Stonestreet) for a New Year’s getaway to a Palm Springs hotel—an establishment Jay hasn’t visited since the ’70s and, judging by appearances, hasn’t changed much since then. Eager to make the most of the trip, each couple sets off on their own adventures, determined to end the year on a high note. Meanwhile, back at home, Haley (Sarah Hyland) and Alex (Ariel Winter) take on the responsibility of babysitting Luke (Nolan Gould), Manny (Rico Rodriguez), and Lily (Aubrey Anderson-Emmons). What could possibly go wrong?

The O.C., Episode 14 of Season 1: ‘The Countdown’

The New Year’s episode of The O.C. elevates the show’s signature soapy drama to a whole new level. Marissa (Mischa Barton) confesses her love to Ryan (Ben McKenzie), and he… thanks her? Meanwhile, Kirsten’s (Kelly Rowan) 25-year-old sister, Hailey (Amanda Righetti), arrives in town and throws a wild party at the Cohen household within 24 hours of her arrival.

The Office, Episode 13 of Season 7: ‘Ultimatum’

In this episode of The Office, two distinct narratives unfold. Firstly, Pam (Jenna Fischer) sets up a New Year’s resolutions board in the office, prompting everyone to reflect on their past and contemplate their future, all wrapped up in a bit of comedic chaos. Meanwhile, Michael (Steve Carell) is on a mission to do the one thing he believes will make all his future New Year’s perfect: winning Holly Flax (Amy Ryan) once and for all. Spoiler alert: It doesn’t quite work out as he had hoped.

Absolutely Fabulous, Episode 2 of Season 3: ‘Happy New Year’

“BFFs Edina (Jennifer Saunders) and Patsy (Joanna Lumley) are gearing up for a night out on New Year’s Eve when Patsy’s older sister, Jackie (Kate O’Mara), unexpectedly shows up seeking a place to stay. The ensuing chaos is madcap, hilarious, and quintessentially ’90s—what’s not to love?”

Peep Show, Episode 6 of Season 7: ‘New Year’s Eve’

Think of Peep Show as a sort of successor to Absolutely Fabulous, but featuring two bumbling Gen X buddies. This New Year’s Eve episode is no exception, showcasing Mark (David Mitchell) and Jeremy’s (Robert Webb) usual cringe-worthy and comedic antics.

My So-Called Life, Episode 16 of Season 1: ‘Resolutions’

“We only got one season of the beloved ABC show starring Claire Danes and Jared Leto, but the New Year’s Eve episode remains one of its most memorable. As everyone is engrossed in their New Year’s resolutions, Rickie (Wilson Cruz) finds himself homeless once again.”

That ’70s Show, Episode 22 of Season 8: ‘That ’70s Finale’

The finale of That ’70s Show is a nostalgia-packed journey (with a cast that’s had its share of controversies, but we’ll leave that aside). It unfolds into a New Year’s Eve with altered perspectives, new beginnings, and the anticipation of what the next year holds.

How I Met Your Mother, Episode 11 of Season 1: ‘The Limo’

It’s New Year’s Eve, and Ted (Josh Radnor) decides to spice things up by renting a limo for all his friends to party hop around town. The night unfolds with a mix of craziness and excitement, including encounters with a Moby look-alike. While the gang appears unlikely to be together when the ball drops, they manage to find their way back to each other. And yes, there’s a kiss!

“Friends, Episode 10 of Season 6: ‘The One With the Routine'”

                “Joey, Monica, and Ross (Matt LeBlanc, Courteney Cox, and David Schwimmer) attend Dick Clark’s New Year’s celebration with Janine (Elle Macpherson) but face challenges getting on TV for their friends to witness—until they unleash ‘the routine.’ A timeless classic for good reason.”