Hi Emily!
How exciting to ring in the new year at Walt Disney World! I’ve had the opportunity to experience several New Year’s Eve countdowns at The Most Magical Place on Earth, and it’s an unforgettable experience!
As of now, there isn’t a specific package that guarantees a prime viewing spot at
Magic Kingdom Park for the countdown and fireworks, however, here are a few tips to help you secure a good spot:
Arrive Early! The area in front of
Cinderella Castle gets crowded quickly on New Year’s Eve, so arriving early in the evening is your best bet to get a good view.
To avoid the crowds, you can always consider booking a dining reservation at a restaurant with a view of the fireworks, such as
California Grill at
Disney’s Contemporary Resort or
'Ohana at
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. These reservations can be tough to get, so make sure to be ready to grab an
Advance Dining Reservation 60 days out.
My best tip: Keep an eye out for any
special dessert parties that might be offered! For example, Tomorrowland Terrace often hosts special events featuring festive desserts and a great view of the fireworks. Another option is a Fireworks Dessert Party with Plaza Garden Viewing, where you can enjoy sweet treats and fantastic views from a reserved standing area. Check back later for more details on these events!
Another pro tip: Don’t rule out visiting
EPCOT on New Year’s Eve. I’m tempted to say I prefer the EPCOT New Year’s Eve experience to Magic Kingdom Park! There are special festivities throughout World Showcase, with each pavilion offering unique celebrations inspired by their respective countries. You can experience music, dance, and special food and drink offerings from around the world. Some pavilions have their own midnight countdowns, giving you the chance to celebrate the New Year multiple times as you explore the park. We were in line for
Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure when the countdown happened in the France Pavilion – it was so fun to celebrate with all the French Cast Members. For most of the evening last year, you could find my family in the China Pavilion, where they had a DJ, a dance floor, and a giant fire-breathing dragon! It’s one of my very favorite memories we’ve ever made on a Disney vacation. The highlight of the EPCOT celebration is the incredible fireworks display. The nighttime spectacular ends with a New Year’s countdown and an amazing grand finale!
Remember to check the
official Walt Disney World website, the
My Disney Experience app, and follow the
Disney Parks Blog for any updates or special event announcements as your trip gets closer.
Wishing you fireworks and fairy tales as you welcome 2025!
Diane W.