The Best New Year’s Eve Fireworks Shows in Central Florida

Magic in the Sky at Walt Disney World_® Resort

As the new year eagerly approaches, immerse yourself in the magic of New Year's Eve at Walt Disney World_® Resort with its unmissable celebration! The iconic Cinderella Castle steals the show in Disney’s Magic Kingdom Park. Imagine bursts of vibrant colors and lights orchestrating a dance in the night sky behind the castle. And guess what? The magic starts early with not one, but two fireworks displays! 

At 6:30 p.m., guests can enjoy the Happily Ever After fireworks show, a breathtaking journey through Disney’s most beloved stories. As midnight approaches, the celebration intensifies as your favorite Disney characters join you for a spectacular countdown, building up to a grand New Year's Eve fireworks display that rings in the new year in true Disney style.

Over at EPCOT^®, the countdown to midnight is celebrated over the World Showcase Lagoon. As the clock strikes 12, fireworks illuminate the diverse pavilions around the lagoon. And the festivities extend beyond the pyrotechnics! Throughout the World Showcase, there are lively dance parties, kiosks brimming with glow wands, and an array of global cuisine and drinks waiting to be savored. 

Since the New Year's Eve fireworks show at Walt Disney World_® Resort is a hot ticket, ensure a prime spot early for an unforgettable view. Both Magic Kingdom and EPCOT typically stay open until 1 a.m., so you can extend your fun and avoid the rush of crowds leaving right after the show. And this entire experience won't cost you extra; it's all part of your park admission! 

Wonder and Lights at SeaWorld^® Orlando

Dive headfirst into fun at SeaWorld^® Orlando with their sensational New Year's Eve fireworks show. It’s set against the unique waterfront backdrop that turns the entire park into a canvas of light. But the excitement doesn’t just start when the sun sets! Throughout the entire day on December 31, SeaWorld^®'s Christmas Celebration will be in full swing. With millions of twinkling lights, award-winning ice-skating shows, and captivating marine life exhibits, your family will have endless ways to celebrate as you count down to the New Year.

At SeaWorld^® Orlando, the hype continues well into the late-night hours for the entire family. Head over to Sesame Street Land for a special New Year’s Eve Countdown with the Count, and enjoy the Sesame Street Christmas Parade throughout the evening. Multiple party zones with DJs and champagne pop-up bars will keep the vibe lively while the grand finale fireworks display lights up the waters. The iconic Sea of Trees becomes the centerpiece of the New Year's countdown, bringing families together for the big moment. And here's the cherry on top – this entire New Year’s Eve show is included with your park admission.

Dance into the New Year at Universal Orlando Resort

Get ready for an epic cinematic night at Universal Orlando Resort’s Universal Studios Florida! Kick off your New Year’s celebration with Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s at 5:30 p.m., where massive balloons and festive floats light up the streets! Over at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™, seasonal light shows transform the Hogwarts™ castle into a magical holiday wonderland. When night falls, the Music Plaza Stage becomes the heart of a colossal dance party, pulsating with energy that will get you moving all night.

With special appearances from your favorite characters and delicious food and drinks, you’ll have everything you need to enjoy an unforgettable event filled with fun, flavor, and excitement! Positioned atop the Transformers The Ride 3D building, you'll witness the grand finale in all its glory. Secure your spot for an uninterrupted view of the fireworks show that'll paint the night sky in an explosion of color and brilliance. 

And here's the best part: the night doesn't end there! As the clock strikes midnight, the celebrations keep going strong at Universal CityWalk, where the Promenade transforms into a lively dance floor for an unforgettable New Year’s experience. And all this enjoyment is bundled up with your park ticket.

A Day-Long Celebration at Old Town

Embark on a day-long journey of festive fun at Old Town Entertainment District, not too far from Downtown Kissimmee, where the excitement culminates in a dazzling New Year's Eve celebration. This free family-friendly extravaganza invites visitors to immerse themselves in the quirky, cool atmosphere of Old Town’s entertainment district. Spend your day conquering Old Town’s thrilling Hurricane roller coaster. Or, capture the festive spirit with a vintage photo at Old Town Portrait Gallery for a timeless keepsake to remember your unique New Year’s Eve.

As the sun sets, the main event begins at 6 p.m. with an electrifying concert by SASS, which will be performing a mix of top hits and classics that promise to get everyone in the celebratory spirit. Also, the KTS Action Sports BMX Show will add more thrills to the night with jaw-dropping tricks and incredible stunts. Street performers, stilt walkers, and a mobile piano player will make their way through the crowd to keep the energy high throughout the night, adding to the occasion as families and friends gather to welcome the upcoming year. 

The heart of the event reaches its highlight at the stroke of midnight when a spectacular fireworks display illuminates the night sky, casting a brilliant array of colors over Old Town’s historic vibes. This completely free event offers a perfect mix of entertainment, nostalgia, and community spirit, making it an ideal destination to bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new in style.

Sunset Walk’s Rocking Like It’s 1999

Prepare to rock into the New Year at the Sunset Walk “Rocking New Year 1999” bash in Kissimmee. With the festivities kicking off at 8 p.m., the Promenade at Sunset Walk will have you partying like it’s 1999. The main stage will come to life with the musical prowess of Scotty B & Project: DJ Slam, setting the tone for an electrifying atmosphere that will have you dancing all night long. Live musicians, vocalists, and DJ K1X's beats will ensure that there's never a dull moment on the dance floor. 

Look out for the LED street performers lighting up the night and a special tribute to Prince by special guest Sir Jac. As the clock inches toward midnight, prepare for laser light shows, flame effects, and a confetti storm that will make the night one to remember. And don’t forget to grab your complimentary party favors to keep the festive spirit going well until the celebration wraps up at 2 a.m.

Of course, the night wouldn't be complete without a grand finale – a midnight fireworks spectacular that will illuminate the night sky, marking the start of a brand new year. Early admission to the event is $19.99 per person, with a special treat for families: kids three and under can join the party for free. It's an all-encompassing experience that promises to make the Sunset Walk’s "Rocking New Year 1999" a must-attend event for revelers of all ages.

Rockin' the Cloud in St. Cloud

If you’re looking for a spot that's just as exciting, but fireworks aren't your thing, check out the 8th Annual Rockin' The Cloud event in downtown St. Cloud. This cherished local tradition has grown bigger every year, and this year’s blowout promises to be the best one yet. But the good times don’t have to wait until nightfall! Spend the day exploring Historic Downtown St. Cloud for a full day of fun you won’t want to miss.

For that “new year, new you” vibe, stop by local shops like Hunnies Body Butter, where you’ll find rejuvenating handmade products that are perfect for starting the new year fresh. Or, kick off the evening with a drink from St. Cloud’s hidden gem, The Black Squirrel Bookstore & Speakeasy, a cozy spot to get into the party mood before the night’s festivities. 

The Rockin’ the Cloud event kicks off with three stages showcasing live performances all night long. Everyone will be groovin' with a lineup that includes country, Latin, and rock. The best local artists will keep the party in full swing, filling the air with music and excitement as the crowd dances into the new year. If you want to party all night and don’t want to worry about the drive home, get a night’s stay at the Hunter Arms Hotel next to the action. As midnight approaches, get ready for the grand finale — a spectacular cloud drop that will light up the night and shower you and your family with vibrant confetti. 

Whether you're gathered with loved ones, watching from a theme park, or marveling at the spectacle from the main street in Old Town, the magic of a fireworks show can always bring us together. Bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new in one of the several spots we have to offer here through Kissimmee, St. Cloud, and all of Central Florida. With so many events for New Year's in the area, subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates.