We have passes and have gone the past two years for NYE 2006 we only went to DCA and had dinner at The Vineyard room, we had a great time but didn't stay at the VR for the countdown instead we walked down and did the countdown by the pier. It wasn't terribly crowded that year.
Last year we went early to DL though not early enough, they had stopped selling all tickets to DL and only had tickets for DCA (this was at about 2pm), we were told of a loophole by a CM who got us a upgrade for DH's lower pass, since I have a Premium Pass so would be able to get in no matter what. We were shocked how busy DL was and ended up heading out a little early to DCA were we did odd things we hadn't done in a long time or ever (like the Trails, this was extra fun in a long poofy dress hahaha!) and then went out the GC exit to Napa Rose for our reservation.
The dinner at Napa was a special coursed service meal ($185 a person $45 or $50 wine pairing each I believe), this was just AMAZING!! They had a band and dancing and we did our count down in NR, with hats and favors, they provided us. The food was some of the best I have ever had! Great Service and yummy wines!
After Dinner we went through the DCA entrance and back out to the central area between the two parks to see people, literally FLOWING out both parks. It was wonderful how much the parks emptied we actually got on quite a few rides at this point. We stayed for another approx. 2 hours and then head home.
The hours last year I believe were DCA 1 am and DL 2am.
We then went back to meet with friends and stuff later in the week, once on the 3rd I believe and the next on like the 6th. OMG!!! It was like summer crowds especially on the 3rd. We found it crazy busy and all were very shocked.
Even with the crowds if you have a good plan and are prewarned it is a fantastic place to ring in the new year. We hope to do Napa Rose again this year it was just so spectacular!
NOTE: If you would like to do the Napa Rose dinner but ring in the NYE at the park you can do their earlier service, which had most of the same features as our meal (I don't think they had a pass appetizer and champagne hour, but same courses) but was less expensive and ended at 9pm so you would have plenty of time to eat and have a wonderful and get a good spot in the park.
O ya and they pas out NYE hats and blowers to everyone before the celebration begins (they do this in both parks) On the map that day they will have a little party symbol where you can get yor hat/blower and at what time... but those places are liek mad houses as well so be warned!! haha
