Hi all!
I'm planning to go to Madrid at the end of December for a week or so, and I was thinking of the best place(s) in the city to celebrate the New Year. I heard about the tradition of eating a grape with every ring of the bell on the town hall (forgot the name), which is supposed to bring you luck. I'm sure there are some traditional places where all the tourists and locals go at night on the 31st of December, so I would kindly ask you to list them here. Some special "stories" connected with the places (like eating grapes on that square) would be appreciated as well.
By the way, is it dangerous to walk around the city (central part) at night alone? I mean not generally, but close to New Year's time? I love hanging around in unknown places late in the evening, but I expect it'll be ok only for December, 31st, or other days it's also possible?
Thanks for everybody in advance!

Puerta del Sol is the THE which fills with tourists on New Years Eve and also a few Spaniards (but few). Don't expect to HEAR the 12-bells, though. A couple years ago we didn't know it was the new year until AFTER the 12-bells (we suspect there really are no bells - only "inserted" for TV viewers) and when they illuminated the "Feliz 2004" light on the bell tower. IF there were bells the crowd was SO loud that it was impossible to hear anything. Most Spaniards either stay at home with their family to celebrate midnight with 12-grapes or they'll attend parties.

The city is VERY active and rather safe on New Years Eve but it's also relatively safe most other nights in the old, central part and for the rest of Madrid in general.

Enjoy! Saludos, MadridMan

If you are part of the crowd at the Puerta del Sol at midnight, 31 dic., beware of the pickpockets

Thanks a lot, MM, for a cultural note. And Eddie, I would certainly keep an eye on my pockets!!
Hope I'll enjoy that crowdy event
I guess a small report of the trip will be useful, don't you think so? I'll try to post something when I'll be back home.

I too will be in Madrid with my family and we're looking forward to the Puerto del Sol frenzy. Any recommendations for some good price/value places to eat New Years Eve?

I too will be in Madrid with my family and we're looking forward to the Puerto del Sol frenzy. Any recommendations for some good price/value places to eat New Years Eve?

I did New Year's in Puerta del Sol in 2000-01.

It really is an amazing experience and was truly the best New Years I've ever had.

To answer an early question, I wouldn't be too worried about walking around late at night, as long as you are with someone.

Right after New Year's we snuck in for a quick bite at the Restaurante Nebraska off Gran Via and then took the subway back to our hotel near Chamartin. In fact, it closed down at 1:30pm and we had to walk about 6-8 blocks to get back to our hotel and I was never scared for a minute.