Spending New Years Eve at Disneyland® is an unforgettable experience, as it’s one of the park’s biggest nights of the year—if not the biggest. The holiday season lingers through the first week of January, so you’ll enjoy festive decor, Christmas-themed treats, and lively entertainment in addition to NYE celebrations like live DJs and countdowns. If you’re planning to ring in 2025 from Disneyland®, here are some must-knows to help you make the most of your visit.

Wait Times

New Year’s is truly one of the busiest times at Disneyland® (yes, even busier than Halloween and spring break!), so be prepared for longer wait times. The first two hours after the park opens, as well as the last couple before it closes for the day, typically have the shortest lines, while you can expect the longest between noon and 6:00 pm. On New Year’s Eve specifically, the park stays open until 2:00 am (1:00 am in Disney California Adventure®), so take advantage of those extra late hours. Use the Disneyland® app to track wait times and plan your next rides.

Lightning Lane Multi Pass (Formerly Genie+)

A lifesaver on especially busy days like New Years Eve at Disneyland®, Lightning Lane passes give you access to shorter wait times for rides. Quick note: Lightning Lane Passes have replaced Genie+ as of fall 2024, but only really in name—the concept is still the same.

You can purchase single or multi Lightning Lane passes either pre-loaded with your park tickets or in the park on the day of your visit. However, one thing to keep in mind is that day-of pricing varies. Pre-purchase your passes for the best price if you’re certain you want them! With that said, it’s important to note that you have to physically be in the park to make Lightning Lane pass ride reservations. On days like NYE, reservations go extremely quickly, so if you can’t get into the park first thing in the morning, you may want to skip the passes altogether. You could always enter the park early, get your Lightning Pass ride(s) lined up, and then re-enter the park later in the day.

Weather

Anaheim weather is generally mild in late December and early January, though it is cooler than many first-timer visitors expect. Daytime temperatures average in the upper 60s to low 70s, while it may dip into the 40s overnight. Plan on having abundant sunshine during the day, but don’t be surprised by cloud cover in the mornings and around dusk. Plan accordingly by dressing in light layers and bringing a rain jacket just in case.

Fireworks

The fireworks shows are easily among the biggest draws of New Year’s Eve at Disneyland®. That’s right, plural! There are TWO New Year’s Eve fireworks shows, one at 9:00 pm and one at midnight. For the best views, along with synchronized music, try to watch them from the castle, It’s a Small World, Main Street U.S.A., or Rivers of America. People camp out all afternoon for good spots, so plan on heavy crowds. Also, the NYE fireworks shows are shorter than normal, about five minutes long.

D23 2024 Ride Announcements

Although it’s not specific to New Year’s Eve, Disney® fans know a new year means exciting things are just around the corner. D23: The Ultimate Disney® Fan Event took place in Anaheim in August 2024. One major highlight of the event was the announcement, or rather several announcements, of new rides and attractions coming to Disneyland® in 2025 and beyond. The all-new Tiana’s Bayou Adventure replaced the iconic Splash Mountain in November, promising a fresh update with interactive features. Another exciting announcement: the doubling of the Avengers Campus, along with two brand new attractions.

In 2026, Disney California Adventure® will be home to the first-ever Coco-themed ride. DCA will also get a new Avatar area and boat ride, though exact dates were not announced.

Where to Stay for a Magical New Year’s Eve

To make your New Year’s celebration as convenient and fun as possible, book a stay at Camelot Inn and Suites Anaheim. Located across the street and just a short walk from the park, Camelot guests can watch the NYE fireworks from the landing outside each guest room! Reserve today and start 2025 by making unforgettable memories with your loved ones! Book through our website or give us a call at 714-635-7275.