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6 Tips for Ringing in the New Year at Walt Disney World

Walt Disney World is one of the most popular locations to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Orlando.

Hundreds of thousands of parkgoers flock to the “Happiest Place on Earth” every year to join the exciting festivities. While it can be exhilarating to count down to midnight at Disney World, it can also be stressful. After all, NYE is one of Disney’s busiest days of the year.

If you’re thinking of going, use these six tips to help you plan accordingly.

1.      Book Your Park Reservations Now

Once you have your travel plans set, buy your park tickets as soon as possible.

As of 2022, Walt Disney World still requires advance park reservations to enter. During busy times of year, these reservations can book up months in advance. So, after getting your tickets, book your New Year’s Eve park reservations on Disney’s website right away.

2.      Show Up at Walt Disney World Early

When the big day comes, you’ll find yourself in a massive crowd. This will inevitably lead to long lines around Walt Disney World.

To maximize your time, plan on showing up to the parks early, at least an hour before they open. On busy days, parking at Disney takes a while, and you’ll want ample time to get to the gates before the park opens. The early bird gets the worm, especially when you’re flocking among 100,000 other birds!

3.      Utilize Genie+

Genie+ is a planning tool in the Walt Disney World mobile app. It costs $15.98 per person, per day, and gives you access to Lightning Lanes, the replacement for Disney’s older FastPass system.

New Years Eve Walt Disney World - Genie App

Because most attractions’ wait times will exceed 60 minutes, New Year’s Eve is a good day to use this feature. Genie+ uses a reservation-based system. Starting at 7:00 a.m., you can book your first Lightning Lane selections. Make sure you wake up early to book these first reservations, as there will be lots of other people using the app on New Year’s Eve.

Throughout the day, as you use your Lightning Lane reservations, you can make new bookings. This strategy allows you to maximize efficiency and make the most of the day.

4.      Take a Midday Nap

The most exciting festivities on New Year’s Eve naturally happen closer to midnight, but it can be hard to stay awake that long when you wake up early.

New Year's Eve Walt Disney World - Alarm Clock

The crowds will be largest in the mid-to-late afternoon, so this will be the best time to go back to the hotel and rest. Napping in your hotel room from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. and returning in the evening will give you a break from the crowds. You’ll return to the parks recharged and ready to continue the party.

5.      Don’t Miss the New Year’s Eve Fireworks!

Walt Disney World’s New Year’s Eve fireworks displays are famous for their extravagance. Magic Kingdom will run the “Fantasy in the Sky” spectacular. At EPCOT, you can catch the “Cheers to the New Year” fireworks show. On top of these displays, both parks will have other fun offerings like dance parties and midnight countdowns.

New Year's Eve Walt Disney World - Fireworks

The exciting entertainment makes the New Year’s Eve crowds worth it. You absolutely do not want to miss these offerings if you’re going to Walt Disney World to celebrate.

6.      Spend Your First Sleep of 2023 at Rosen Inn Lake Buena Vista

After celebrating New Year’s Eve at Walt Disney World, you’re going to be ready for a good night’s sleep.

After the party’s over, head to bed at Rosen Inn Lake Buena Vista. Our Walt Disney World Good Neighbor Hotel is a convenient and affordable place to rest.

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Sales: 1-800-999-7300

Local: 407-996-7300

8442 Palm Parkway,
Orlando, Florida 32836


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