Millions of people gather for fireworks and celebrations to mark the end of one year and the beginning of the next. If you haven’t made plans yet, it’s not too late. Americans have a long-standing tradition of celebrating New Year’s Eve with fireworks displays. Several American towns host breathtaking fireworks displays that light up the night sky. Visit famous destinations like New York, Las Vegas, and San Francisco to see some of the best New Year’s Eve fireworks in America.
Popular places to celebrate the New Year in America
1) Times Square, New York City, New York
New York City’s Times Square is one of the world’s best fireworks spots for NYE. Every year, millions of people flock to Times Square to watch the spectacular fireworks show and famous ball drop. Hours before midnight, Times Square comes alive with celebrations, live acts, and celebrity sightings. The square comes alive as the clock counts down to midnight. At midnight, the sky lights up with fireworks, confetti, and the cheers of thousands of participants.
Pro tip – Try to get there early. There may be delays due to security inspection. Be prepared to spend hours without access to restrooms or snacks.
2) Las Vegas, Nevada
One of the most popular destinations for US New Year’s Eve fireworks is Las Vegas. The Las Vegas Strip transforms into a massive open-air extravaganza. Only pedestrians can pass, vehicles are not allowed. Countdown events are hosted by several hotels and casinos. Coordinated fireworks shows will be launched from the rooftops of several famous casinos, including the Venetian, Caesars Palace, and the MGM Grand. Partygoers fill the streets, dancing to live music, drinking champagne and enjoying the nightlife.
Pro tip – Accommodation is in high demand during the holidays, so book your hotel early. How about watching fireworks from the High Roller Ferris Wheel?
3) Walt Disney World, Orlando, Florida
One of the best things to do on New Year’s Eve is to celebrate at Walt Disney World in Orlando. On December 31st, Epcot and Magic Kingdom will host spectacular fireworks displays. You can see Fantasy in the Sky at Magic Kingdom. A spectacular fireworks display set to timeless Disney tunes.
Pro tip – Please arrive early. Disney also offers New Year’s Eve dining packages. Please plan to arrive on site early. Disney also offers New Year’s Eve dining packages.
4) San Francisco, California
For those living on the West Coast, San Francisco is one of the best places in the United States to watch New Year’s Eve fireworks. The city offers a spectacular waterfront show along the Embarcadero, with the Bay Bridge and Ferry Building providing a stunning backdrop for the fireworks. Fireworks start at midnight. Celebrations start early and include live music and celebratory events around the city. There are great views along the Embarcadero and from Pier 39. Pier 39 offers entertainment, retail, and dining options.
Pro tip – Avoid the crowds and enjoy the sights from the water by booking a San Francisco Bay boat tour.
5) Miami, Florida
Miami is famous for its great nightlife. The largest and most popular event is the New Year’s Eve celebration at Bayfront Park. Includes live music, food vendors, an impressive fireworks display over Biscayne Bay, and more. Visitors can join one of several private yacht parties and enjoy stunning views of the fireworks from the sea. South Beach is also a popular destination for those who want to combine fireworks with a beach atmosphere.
Pro tip – Please dress accordingly for warm temperatures. Celebrations in Miami can be chaotic, so prepare accordingly. Book your party or dinner in advance for the best view of the fireworks.
6) New Orleans, Louisiana
Jackson Square in the French Quarter hosts a spectacular fireworks display on New Year’s Eve. Tourists and locals gather for a night of dancing, food, and music. A spectacular fireworks display over the Mississippi River lights up the sky at midnight. Visit Woldenberg Park for even more spectacular views. The fireworks reflect off the water, creating a spectacular sight.
Pro tip – Try popular New Orleans dishes like beignets, gumbo, and po’boys.
7) Seattle, Washington
The most popular place to see spectacular fireworks displays on New Year’s Eve is Seattle, located in the Pacific Northwest. The city’s most famous symbol, the Space Needle, displays a breathtaking fireworks display. There are thousands of spectators at the event. Adjacent Seattle Center draws crowds for celebrations with live music, food, and dancing.
Pro tip – Kelly Park offers some of the best views of the fireworks.
8) Boston, Massachusetts
Since 1976, the First Night Boston event has been a popular New Year’s Eve tradition. Ice sculptures, live music, a children’s procession, and fireworks are all highlights of the celebration. Families with children can attend the first exhibition in the early evening. The most remarkable sight lighting up the skies over Boston Harbor takes place at midnight. The waterfront is the perfect vantage point for the midnight fireworks show. There are spectacular views from the Esplanade and the North End.
Pro tip – December in Boston can be very cold. Dress warmly and grab a cup of hot cocoa at the station.
9) Chicago, Illinois
In Chicago, Navy Pier hosts a spectacular New Year’s Eve fireworks show. Numerous dining and entertainment options are available before the midnight fireworks display over Lake Michigan. Special parties are held across the city, and some hotels and rooftops offer great views of the fireworks.
Pro tip – Consider booking a dinner cruise on Lake Michigan.
10) Honolulu, Hawaii
Beautiful fireworks can be seen over the Pacific Ocean from Honolulu’s Waikiki Beach. Book a table at the beachside resort or enjoy dinner at the rooftop bar overlooking the fireworks display.
Pro tip – Head to Magic Island at Ala Moana Beach Park for a great vantage point.
11) San Antonio, Texas
Celebrate San Antonio Celebration is one of the nation’s largest free New Year’s Eve celebrations in San Antonio. The event will be held at Hemisfair Park, near the famous Tower of America. There will be family-friendly entertainment, food sales and live music. The midnight fireworks display on the River Walk is a highlight of the evening.
Pro tip – Make reservations to dine at the many eateries along the River Walk that offer riverside seating while watching the fireworks. Arrive early to secure the best spot.
12) Atlanta, Georgia
The Peach Drop is a signature New Year’s Eve event in Atlanta. It will be held at Underground Atlanta. The event features live music, an amusement park atmosphere, and the famous midnight giant peach drop. The night culminates with a fireworks show that lights up the city.
Pro tip – Head to Piedmont Park to watch fireworks in a spacious, open setting. Book a dinner cruise along the Chattahoochee River to get a better view of the Peach Drop and fireworks.
final thoughts
December is a great time to visit the United States, with spectacular Christmas markets and New Year’s Eve fireworks. As you prepare to welcome in 2025, keep in mind the best locations for US New Year’s Eve fireworks.
