What the CROWDS Look Like in Disney World on New Year's Eve

Happy New Year’s Eve from Disney World!

Main Street U.S.A. Christmas Decorations

There is plenty to see and do around the parks on this festive day, like special treats, merch, entertainment, and more — and we’re bringing you along as we check it out. But, we’re not the only ones ringing in the New Year in Disney World, so let’s take a look at the crowds!

We saw some pretty intense crowds over the past few days so we’re expecting some heavy crowds on New Year’s Eve as well! We typically see special events in both Magic Kingdom and EPCOT, and because of that park passes have been sold out for theme park ticket and hotel guests since early October.

But, exactly when the crowds will show up is another story, since the most exciting New Year’s festivities take place at night. When we got to Magic Kingdom, we saw that things were already busy mid-afternoon.

Crowds on Main Street, U.S.A.

We arrived shortly before 3PM and people were gathering along the parade route to watch Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade. This is the last day that the parade will show before it returns to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party next year.

Guests already lined up.

Once we got away from the parade route, things were less dense…although it’ll likely pick back up again after the parade ends.

Crowds in Tomorrowland

Around the same time in EPCOT, we encountered a LOT of people when walking our way through Creations Shop. Good luck looking for souvenirs today!

So. Many. People.

Later in the evening, things started to pick up. It got more challenging to walk around the different lands of Magic Kingdom, especially in areas with bottlenecks.

Crowds in Adventureland

It was particularly challenging to move around in Fantasyland, especially as we walked in front of the attractions.

Fantasyland is one of the areas with bottlenecks

We had to scope out a fireworks spot more than an hour ahead of time, and things were VERY packed for the 6:30PM show. These are the crowds we warn you about!

Before fireworks

Shortly before the show guests were required to stand up. Basically ALL of the standing space was filled — it’s like the 50th Anniversary fireworks premiere all over again!

Fireworks crowds

Over in EPCOT things were a bit more bearable, especially since the walking paths are spread out and there’s fireworks viewing all around World Showcase Lagoon.

Crowds in EPCOT

Basically, if you’re tacking New Year’s Eve in Disney World, we wish you the best of luck! Happy New Year to you and yours!

And, if you’re looking for help planning your next trip — we’ve got you covered with these posts below:

We’ll be keeping up with all the New Year’s Eve and Day happenings in Disney World, so stay tuned!

Your Complete Guide To New Year’s Eve in Disney World

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