Ring in the New Year at Walt Disney World with these Special events

Ring in the New Year at Walt Disney World with these Special events

If you’re looking to kick 2025 to the curb and welcome 2026 with a serious dose of pixie dust, there is honestly no place like Walt Disney World. It’s absolutely spectacular and magical. Between the “perimeter” fireworks that surround you in a circle of light and the dance parties where even the grumpiest of dads start busting a move, the energy is just on another level. But since there’s so much happening across the four parks and Disney Springs, you really need a game plan.

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Magic Kingdom: The “Double Celebration” Choice

If you want that quintessential “castle and fireworks” moment, Magic Kingdom is your spot. The big draw here is the “Fantasy in the Sky” Fireworks Spectacular, and here is a pro tip: they actually run the show on both December 30th and 31st. This is a total lifesaver for families with little ones (or anyone who values sleep) because you can catch the full midnight-style display a day early or at the 7:30 p.m. showing on New Year’s Eve.

When you aren’t staring at the sky, you can find massive dance parties in Frontierland and Tomorrowland. It’s pretty surreal to see a DJ spinning tracks right next to Space Mountain while the crowd goes wild with glow sticks. Just remember, this park is “dry” (mostly), so if you’re looking for a midnight champagne toast, you’ll want to look at the other parks or resorts.

EPCOT: The Ultimate Party Hub

For anyone who wants more of a “nightclub” vibe, EPCOT is the place to be. The World Showcase basically transforms into a giant global block party. You can hit a silent disco in the United Kingdom, dance to electronic beats in Italy, or see a fire-breathing dragon stage in China. The park stays open until 1:00 a.m., and the alcohol flows a bit more freely here, making it the top choice for the 21-and-over crowd.

The fireworks schedule at EPCOT is a one-two punch. First, you get the regular “Luminous The Symphony of Us” show at 6:30 p.m., and then, just before midnight, the “Cheers to the New Year: A Sparkling Celebration” begins at 11:54pm. This show is legendary because it counts down through the different time zones of the World Showcase countries before basically “blowing up the lagoon” at midnight.

Hollywood Studios: The “Hidden Gem” Alternative

A lot of people forget about Hollywood Studios for NYE, which actually makes it a great middle-ground option. It’s a bit less chaotic than the main two, but it still packs a punch. This year, they’re hosting a high-energy DJ dance party right in front of the Chinese Theatre and a Pixar Dance Party over at Pixar Plaza where you can boogie with your favorite characters.

Instead of a massive 20-minute fireworks show, they do a specialized New Year Countdown at 11:57 p.m. involving projections, lasers, and rooftop pyrotechnics on the Chinese Theatre. Plus, you can still catch Fantasmic! earlier in the night, so it’s a great way to get your show fix without feeling like a sardine in Magic Kingdom.

Pro Tips for Surviving the Night

• Arrive Early, Stay Late: These parks will reach capacity. If you leave for a nap in the afternoon, there is a very real chance you won’t be let back in. Pick a park and commit!
• Eat at Weird Times: Everyone tries to grab dinner at 6:00 p.m. Try to eat a big lunch at 3:00 p.m. and “graze” on snacks during the peak hours to avoid the 90-minute mobile order wait times.
• The “Secret” Exit: If you’re at Magic Kingdom, don’t rush for the monorail the second the fireworks end. Hang out for 30 minutes, let the first wave of 50,000 people leave, and enjoy the “Kiss Goodnight” on the castle.

Which park are you visiting to ring the new year?

Credit: Disney Parks

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