Hi there, Allyson, and welcome back to planDisney! I'm absolutely thrilled that you've chosen to trust me and my Panelist pals with your best Walt Disney World Resort vacation planning questions. As you know, we are here and always happy to help our fellow Guests, just like you!
Allyson, it sounds like you've been thrown for a bit of a loop with your travel plans. Holiday travel can be unpredictable, and I understand that can cause some changes in your itinerary. Arriving at Walt Disney World Resort on New Year's Eve will be an exciting day! It sounds like you'll be arriving at your Disney Resorts Collection hotel very late in the evening. It's tough to say when
EPCOT will reach capacity, but I can imagine that it might happen earlier in the day, as New Year's Eve is a very popular day to visit the Disney Theme Parks. At this time, a date-based ticket will not guarantee entry to EPCOT. The fireworks that will go off to celebrate the new year will begin just before midnight.
I've had the pleasure of spending New Year's Eve at
Walt Disney World Resort many times, both in and out of the theme parks. If you happen to get in earlier and make it to the parks, you're sure to have an absolute blast. However, after a long day of travel, you might enjoy watching fireworks from a Disney Resorts Collection hotel and heading to bed shortly after, to get your rest for the next day. Neither is a bad option, in my opinion!
Be sure to download the
My Disney Experience Mobile App when you arrive, and get familiar with using it. You'll love having access to the magic right in your pocket! With the amazing map feature that can help you find everything from attractions to restrooms to dining locations, you'll find that navigating the parks is easier than ever!
Allyson, I hope you have an amazing vacation at the Most Magical Place on Earth. Please stop back by
planDisney with any other questions you have as you continue to count down to your arrival!
See you real soon!
Jennifer