Guide to Ringing in the New Year at Disney World
The countdown to the New Year has begun! If you’re planning to celebrate at Walt Disney World, this guide will provide all the information you need, including park hours, special events, and tips for making the most of your magical New Year’s Eve experience.
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Get ready for a magical New Year’s Eve at Disney World! Most parks will extend their operating hours, and many will host special celebrations to ring in the new year. Additionally, select restaurants at Disney Springs and Disney World Resort hotels will host exclusive New Year’s Eve meals and parties.
Magic Kingdom
- Park Hours: 8 AM to 1 AM on Dec. 31
- Fireworks: Fantasy in the Sky fireworks are available at 6:50 PM and 11:50 PM on December 30 and December 31
Magic Kingdom offers a festive New Year’s Eve celebration with two showings of the dazzling ‘Fantasy in the Sky’ fireworks display at 6:50 PM and 11:50 PM on both December 30th and 31st. Delight in the magical Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas Parade at 12 PM and 3 PM, and savor special New Year’s Eve treats offered throughout the park.
Epcot
- Park Hours: 9 AM to 1 AM on Dec. 31
- Fireworks: Cheers to the New Year: A Sparkling Celebration at 11:54 PM, Luminous The Symphony of Us at 6:30 PM
Ring in the New Year at EPCOT with a special fireworks show at 11:54 PM, designed to welcome the new year. Enjoy DJ parties throughout World Showcase and the regular ‘Luminous The Symphony of Us’ fireworks show at 6:30 PM.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
- Park Hours: 8:30 AM to 12 AM Dec. 31
- Fireworks: Fantasmic! will be available at 8 PM and 9:30 PM. Fireworks show with projections on Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway at 11:57 pm
Get ready for a spectacular New Year’s Eve fireworks display at Disney’s Hollywood Studios! The show will begin at 11:57 PM ET on December 31st, featuring a captivating mix of low-level pyrotechnics launched from the rooftops of Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway and larger fireworks launched from across World Drive.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom
- Park Hours: 8 AM to 8 PM Dec. 31
- Fireworks: There are no fireworks celebrations at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
In keeping with its commitment to animal welfare, Disney’s Animal Kingdom does not host fireworks displays. To enhance the holiday experience, the park extends its operating hours during the festive season, closing at 8 PM.
Disney Springs
- Hours: 10 AM to 11:30 PM Dec. 31
- Fireworks: While Disney Springs does not host its own fireworks, you may be able to see some of the park’s fireworks in the distance.
Although Disney Springs doesn’t host its own fireworks display, many of its restaurants create a festive atmosphere with special New Year’s Eve dining experiences. In the past, these have included celebratory meals at The Edison, Maria and Enzo’s, Enzo’s Hideaway, Raglan Road, and more. We’ll provide updates on this year’s dining options as they become available.
Disney World Resort Hotels
Tiana’s New Year’s Adventure at California Grill
Immerse yourself in a magical New Year’s Eve celebration at California Grill’s ‘Tiana’s New Year’s Adventure.’ This exclusive event, priced at $799 per person, includes a delectable dinner crafted by Chef Matthew Louis, character meet-and-greets with Princess Tiana and Prince Naveen, and enchanting entertainment with Mama Odie’s playful spells and surprise appearances by Tiana’s critter pals. The celebration takes place on December 31st from 7:30 PM to 12:30 AM at Disney’s Contemporary Resort.
Tips for Spending New Year’s Eve at Disney World
Given the anticipated crowds, securing Park Pass reservations in advance is crucial for your visit. While park hopping is an option, consider spending the day at a single park, particularly if you plan to stay for the fireworks at Magic Kingdom or EPCOT. Capacity limits may be implemented, potentially restricting park hopping later in the day.
Prepare for crowds, especially during peak times. Utilize My Disney Experience for mobile ordering and checking wait times. Consider Lightning Lanes, but weigh the cost. Enjoy special events like Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade, and arrive early for fireworks viewing.
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