New Year's Eve - Is it worth it?

[DarthEsquire]

I've gone a couple times on NYE the last few years. This past year I went to MK on December 30th since they do the same fireworks on the 30th and the 31st. I found out that since there were the two fireworks shows that evening they cannot do fastpass for them though so the usual fastpass area was first come first served. I staked out a spot about 45 minutes beforehand and that gave an excellent view. EPCOT is crazy on NYE but had a lot of variety. There were multiple DJ booths including a "silent" dance party in the Japan pavilion which was definitely surreal to watch. Both times I've been able to get reservations at Teppan Edo or Via Napoli about four months out for dinner around ten. The rest of the night I have watched the British Revolution performances until the midnight fireworks. The midnight EPCOT fireworks do a special salute to each of the world showcase countries which is my favorite fireworks show at the parks since the employees run out from their stores and restaurants during each tribute to celebrate their own new year. I stayed at the BW due to my traffic concerns, but if that wasn't available the Swan and Dolphin also had decent rates to be walking distance.

 

[squirrel4569]

We went this past NYE and absolutely loved it. The worst crowds at MK were just getting in at park open and getting out after the fireworks. The fireworks were amazing. Disney does a pretty good job of crowd control so we were able to see and do quite a bit more than we expected. I would absolutely do it again. I think I'd love to get enough points to stay for the weekend at BLT for the ability to walk to and from MK though.

 

[jeepnjudy]

After doing both WDW and Disney Cruise over NYE, Disney Cruise has won out...less crowded, still get to see fireworks, and much more relaxing!

 

[jerseyduke]

I did new year's eve one year, at EPCOT. It was:
A. A lot of fun, the China Pavilion had a whole fire show going on, all kinds of crazy.
B. PACKED!

One thing to note is parks, particularly the Magic Kingdom, may close the gates to people, as they reach capacity.

I would do it again, it was fun, but it is not a trip for the parks, too crowded, but with the timing of new years, the 2nd might start some thinning.

Also to note, when I did it, I was not a DVC Member, so paying cash, and arriving on the 31st, I stayed at one of the all stars for like 130$, then moved over to the Polynesian on the 1st. The Poly was like 650 for the night of the 31st, so I passed on one night there, as the next night the slow season discount kicked in, and it was like 320 or something.

If you are a person that gets crabby in crowds, it is not for you. Adult beverages help

 

[jerseyduke]

NYE at WDW should be on everyone's bucket list. So much fun even if you don't go into the parks. Everyone is so happy to be there, just a wonderful vibe.

+1

It is the biggest party you will probably ever go to!