As the world prepares to usher in the New Year, Addis Abeba, Africa’s diplomatic capital, is already in full celebratory mode. Across the city, hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues are racing to meet heightened expectations, even as rising costs reshape the tone of this year’s festivities.

Nowhere is the shift more visible than in ticket prices. New Year’s Eve party passes have jumped by more than 30pc compared to last year, reflecting not only buoyant demand but also higher operational costs and an entertainment market increasingly tethered to foreign exchange pressures.

The city’s most anticipated events are taking place at international hotels, with the Sheraton Addis on Taitu St. leading the pack. The Sheraton is preparing for what many expect will be one of its signature and sought-after New Year’s Eve parties. The Hotel is well-known for its vibrant celebrations, and this year, tickets are priced at 25,000 Br, up from 20,000 Br last year, a 25pc jump. The tickets include food and drinks.

Nahusenay Ayalew, general manager of Pristine Marketing Group (PMG), believes the rise in ticket prices is not only a reflection of higher demand. He also sees it tied to the weakening of the Birr against major currencies and to international performers being paid in dollars.

The American R&B singer, Tremaine Aldon Neverson, known as "Trey Songz," will be performing. Recognised for his smooth vocals and a musical style that blends contemporary R&B with hip-hop, the singer has released eight studio albums, including "I Gotta Make It," "Passion," and "Pain & Pleasure." His best-known songs, such as “Say Aah”, “Can’t Help but Wait”, “Bottoms Up”, “Heart Attack”, and “Slow Motion”, are global hits.

Neverson confirmed his visit to Ethiopia in a video on social media, stating his eagerness to perform in Addis Abeba for the first time, on December 31, 2025.

Among those set to perform is Bizuayehu Demissie, a veteran musician with more than two decades of experience. Known for his soft voice, powerful vocals, and romantic songs, Bizuayehu first came to prominence in the 1990s, which many consider a golden age for Ethiopian music. He has released two albums, including "Salaysh", and his presence at the Sheraton stage is expected to be the highlight for many partygoers.

Sharing the stage is reggae artist Natnael Ayalew, who goes by the name "Nhatty Man." He shot to fame with his second album, "Nhatty Man Vol 2," and has built a career spanning 15 years with five albums to his name. Nati Man is known for music with strong social messages that particularly resonate with younger audiences.

The Sheraton event will run from 6:00pm to 2:00am with Ethiopian musicians accompanied by Tora Band, founded by former Jano Band leader Kirubel Tesfaye, while Trey Songz will be joined on stage by his band. The night will also feature a DJ set and fireworks. Organisers expect between 3,000 and 4,000 people to attend as the city’s social scene gathers to celebrate the arrival of the New Year.

The Marriott Executive Apartments, on Haile Gebresellasie Road, is another hotspot for the evening.

The decade-old Hotel, owned by Sunshine Investment Group and operated under Marriott International, is hosting an event organised by Level One Entertainment. Led by veteran musician Shewandagn Hailu, the event will feature legendary musician Tsehaye Yohannes and up-and-coming performer Leul Sisay. Tickets at the Marriott are on sale for 4,000 Br, about 33pc higher than last year’s. The party will go from 9:00pm to 3:00am.

Unlike the Sheraton, Marriott’s ticket price covers entry only, with food and drinks sold separately, though there are special dinner-and-accommodation packages on offer. According to Nafkot Getahun, sales and marketing manager, guests can buy a package for 140 dollars that includes dinner, and an overnight stay, excluding breakfast.

"This is a special rate," she said, "since the standard room price is 170 dollars."

The Hotel has gone to great lengths to decorate and create a festive atmosphere. For those not interested in the full package, food and drinks are available at standard menu prices.