Hi Ariadne,
Welcome to planDisney! As a fellow mom to a toddler, I understand the desire to count down to the New Year a little earlier in the evening than midnight.
At this time, there has only been one New Year’s Eve event announced that takes place outside of the theme parks.
Alice’s Whimsical World of Wonderland will take place at California Grill inside Disney’s Contemporary Resort. This event will have a DJ, several food stations, and end with a viewing of the fireworks spectacular from Magic Kingdom Park. The event is from 7:30 PM to 12:30 AM and definitely sounds like an event adults would enjoy, so this may not be the experience for you on New Year’s Eve.
I recommend watching the
Disney Parks Blog as your trip gets closer for any announcements regarding other activities taking place around Walt Disney World Resort. If you’re really interested in seeing some fireworks from outside the parks, I suggest
booking a Specialty Cruise. You can book a private fireworks cruise to watch the Magic Kingdom or EPCOT fireworks with the music playing on the boat. These can be booked up to 60 days in advance of your visit, so you’ll want to call as soon as possible to see if there is any availability for New Year’s Eve.
I also encourage you to check with the Front Desk at your Disney Resort hotel for an activities guide. There may be specific kid-friendly New Year’s events taking place earlier in the evening. Or, make your own New Year’s celebration! On my most recent stay at Disney’s Contemporary Resort with my family, we enjoyed an evening of roasting marshmallows at the resort and a
Movie Under the Stars. Sometimes the resorts will host other activities like scavenger hunts or tie-dye. I’m sure your toddler will have fun no matter which activity you choose!
I’m sorry I wasn’t able to give you more information, Ariadne, but I hope this gave you some good ideas! Enjoy your upcoming visit to Walt Disney World, and we’ll be here at planDisney if you have any more questions!
Kaitlin