The city of Orlando spins its magic all year long, but it really comes to life on New Year’s Eve. Whether you like hanging out in a theme park or having a romantic dinner, you’ll find what you’re looking for in the Sunshine State. Here’s a list of fun things to do on New Year’s Eve.
Orlando Theme Parks
Orlando theme parks limited their productions in 2021, but they’re pulling out all the stops this year. New information about the events will come out closer to the date, and changes could occur for safety reasons.
- Disney
Guests at Disney World have three choices: the Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, and Hollywood Studios. Reservations at EPCOT have sold out, and the other parks have limited availability.
This year, the Magic Kingdom’s “Fantasy in the Sky” features fireworks at 11:50 PM on December 30 and December 31. Tomorrowland Terrace will host dessert parties during the shows. Disney’s Hollywood Studios has a smaller fireworks display, but it also features live music and fewer crowds.
Visitors to the Animal Kingdom will party until midnight on December 31, enjoying themed food and beverages, live disc jockeys, and a countdown projected onto the famed Tree of Life.
- SeaWorld
SeaWorld guests enjoy rides, shows, and animal events throughout the year. On December 31, there’s a party with special entertainment and fireworks, but space is limited. For safety reasons, areas for viewing fireworks will be set up throughout the park.
- LEGOLAND
At LEGOLAND, Gingerbread, Santa and their friends will meet and greet guests during the holidays. Every day from December 16 to December 31, the Nightly New Year’s Eve Fireworks show will light up the sky and welcome 2022. Themed food and drinks add to the festivities.
- Universal Studios
At Universal Studios, Grinch and his friends come out on New Year’s Eve to meet and greet their fans. From live music and confetti to fireworks and wild rides, there’s something to keep everybody entertained.
Other Fun Things to Do on New Year’s Eve
Orlando is known for its nightclubs, fine dining, and live music. From the high-energy Howl at the Moon to the lively New Year’s Eve in Downtown Orlando, gatherings say goodbye to the old and welcome the new. On the quiet end of the scale, meditation and worship centers around the city open their doors for a night of goodwill and contemplation. Some resorts offer low-key celebrations on site, but you don’t need to be in Orlando to be part of the fun. Local television networks live stream many of the events.
