Turn of the millennium live: Highlights of the New Year's Eve show in the north!

Turn of the millennium live: Highlights of the New Year's Eve show in the north!

On Sunday, June 15, 2025, television viewers can look forward to a very special event: between 12:50 a.m. and 6:00 a.m., the NDR program “Die Jahrhunderte-Schaubude” will bring back to mind the glamorous highlights of the north at the turn of the millennium. Moderated by Carlo von Tiedemann and Julia Westlake, the jubilant moments surrounding New Year's Eve 1999/2000 will be revived. Live broadcasts from various cities in northern Germany take viewers back to the party atmosphere of that night when the new millennium was welcomed.

The program not only shows the festivities, but also includes the impressive EXPO fireworks in Hanover, which thrilled the crowds at the time. The decades-long custom of toasting with sparkling wine at midnight is discussed, as is the special atmosphere associated with the sounds of ringing bells and fireworks. The feeling of nostalgia that these memories awaken alone is worth reliving the charts from back then, presented by well-known stars who present hit mixes and medleys from times long past.

A look into the future of New Year's Eve celebrations

But what has changed since then? As NDR [news magazine](https://www.ndr.de/ Fernsehenen/programm/epg/Die- Jahrhundert-Schaubude,versand1556744.html) reports, there have been remarkable changes in New Year's Eve celebrations in Germany over the last five decades. Traditions such as lead casting and communal dinners with dishes such as raclette or fondue were commonplace in the 1970s. These rituals have now become less common. New things have arrived - wax oracles replace lead casting and regional buffets have taken on international influences, including vegan and sustainable options.

Another aspect that media like Spiegel address is the increasing signaling effect of digital technologies and social media during the celebrations. The ability to live stream events like the fireworks at the Brandenburg Gate has revolutionized celebration. Smartphones are now indispensable for capturing special moments and sharing them with friends. Special countdown apps and filters for New Year's pictures are the new highlights.

Social changes and environmental awareness

But there are also critical voices when it comes to the topic of fireworks. As [SH Ugeavisen](https://sh-ugeavisen.dk/index.php/2024/12/30/silvester-in-deutschland-ein-rueckblick-auf-50-jahre-veraenderungen-im-festtags Behavior/) reports, the use of privately organized fireworks is increasingly coming under criticism. Concerns about environmental and animal welfare mean that many cities have already set up no-fireworks zones. Alternatives such as laser shows are gaining popularity.

The social dimension of New Year's Eve celebrations has also changed. Community events promote a sense of community and inclusion, including for newcomers and migrants. These developments reflect not only social changes, but also the spirit of the times: the search for resources that make the celebrations more environmentally friendly.

The NDR show at the turn of the century not only brings nostalgic looks back, but also opens up an exciting dialogue about the future of our holiday traditions. It remains to be seen what the New Year's Eve celebrations will be like in the coming years. Perhaps the turn of the millennium on the night of December 31, 1999 and the naked marathon disco in the 2000s will one day be part of the historical labyrinth of traditions. Stay tuned to see what Carlo von Tiedemann and Julia Westlake have in store for us on this legendary evening!