Nine more days to go; you still have time to catch that last flight and ring in the New Year with the crowds.

UDON THANI

Rub shoulders with local hi-so and Vientiane blow-ins at Isaan’s largest community mall UD Town (it’s the size of four K-Villages and there are more visitors than Central Plaza nearby, believe us). The countdown will take place around its LED Christmas tree with a stage right near the food center. There will also be a series of entertainment activities and live concerts until January. 042-932-999. www.goudtown.com

CHIANG MAI

The Chiang Mai Countdown 2013 celebration is taking place at Tha Pae Gate and connecting Tha Pae Road in the old town. The event features cultural and entertainment performances as well as a fireworks show. TAT Chiang Mai, 053-248-607, 053-302-500.

CHIANG RAI

Get together with the Lanna folks for the countdown at Chiang Rai Clock Tower, which was designed by national artist Chalermchai Kositpipat. There will also be cultural performances, light and sound shows and festive fireworks along Ban Prakarn Road. Chiang Rai Municipality, 053-711-333.

UBON RATCHATHANI

Hike up to Pha Chanadai and Pha Taem cliffs in Ubon Ratchathani to count down with adventurous trekkers from around the country. And wait another six hours to be among the first in Thailand to see the first sun of 2013. TAT Ubon 045-243-700.   

SA KAEW

Vintage lovers, shop through to the New Year while making new Khmer friends at Rong Klua Market, a headquarters for old-school style with nine markets and 5,000 shops. Merchandise is 20-50% discounted and there will be an OTOP fair and Thai-Cambodian cultural show.

PATTAYA

The year-end celebration in Pattaya means seven days of entertainment activities starting from Dec 25, with concert and fireworks on the final day on Dec 31 at Bali Hai Pier in South Pattaya. www.pattaya.go.th  

HUA HIN

Hua Hin’s artsy bazaar Cicada Market is welcoming 2013 with the Cicada Carnival Orange Happiness 2013 celebration featuring fun activities like live music performances, fantasy parades and a fancy mask competition. You’re encouraged to wear anything orange. 032-536-606, www.cicadamarket.com

PHUKET

If the Sydictive Elements beach party really does go ahead (it’s looking likely, for now), the two-day electro festival will make Surin Beach a happening spot to count down. Dance on the beach alongside hunks and bikini-clad girls from around the world, to the sounds of some of the world’s top DJs who will perform on a floating ocean stage. www.sydictiveelement.com