What's new year's like at WDW?

[foofanella]

Going for 3 nights (12/31 - 1/3) and staying at WL. Traveling with 2 little ones 4 and 1 and would like to know what it will be like (other than the crowds, of course). Is NY's Day empty or crowded? Are there special events at the hotels or just fireworks at the park? How loud are the fireworks at WL (there is NO way my kids will make it to midnight - nor do I want them to!)

Thanks!

 

[LibertyBelle]

New Years Eve is a complete mad house but you probably already know that. MK does 2 fireworks performances on New Years Eve. One is usually around 9pm and then the big one at midnight (they usually do the earlier one because of the kids that can't stay up so late ) Fireworks can be heard at WL but they are not "really" loud. You will hear them if you are awake, but they aren't generally loud enough from there to wake you up (unless you are on the wing that faces MK then it depends on the wind).

The crowds die out considerably starting on January 1 and continuing to lessen as the days go by. You will see a drop in attendance on the first and then the 2nd will be a huge difference as everyone is heading home. As long as you are prepared for New Years Eve itself to be a mad house the following days will prove to be worth it