Avanti International Resort Blog

Orlando truly knows how to ring in the new year! Fireworks light up the sky, restaurants feature festive menus, and attractions stay open late to welcome 2026 in style. Staying at Avanti International Resort puts you in the heart of it all, right on International Drive and just minutes from theme parks, nightlife, and entertainment. Here are the top ways to celebrate New Year’s Eve around Orlando. 

Theme Parks: Spectacular Fireworks and Holiday Entertainment 

Orlando’s world-famous theme parks go all out for New Year’s Eve with extended hours, special celebrations, and dazzling nighttime entertainment. Whether you’re looking for fireworks, music, or family-friendly fun, each park offers a unique way to ring in 2026.

• Walt Disney World® Resort – Magic Kingdom®, EPCOT®, and Hollywood Studios®: Magic Kingdom®, EPCOT®, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios® will stay open until midnight on New Year’s Eve. Guests can enjoy special surprises throughout the day and sparkling nighttime displays to close out 2025 in style.
• SeaWorld® Orlando: SeaWorld Orlando extends its park hours for New Year’s Eve with a spectacular midnight fireworks display. During the day, enjoy award-winning shows, themed food and drinks, and seasonal entertainment. For an upgraded experience, reserve VIP seating for the Winter Wonderland on Ice show or an all-inclusive happy hour with waterfront fireworks views, specialty cocktails, tapas-style bites, and a midnight champagne toast.
• Universal Orlando Resort – Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure: Both parks remain open through 1:00 a.m., giving guests plenty of time to enjoy extended hours, themed entertainment, and festive celebrations. Several Universal Orlando Resort hotels also host New Year’s Eve parties for those who want to continue the celebration off the park grounds.
• Universal CityWalk New Year’s Eve Celebrations: Just outside the theme parks, Universal CityWalk offers a high-energy New Year’s Eve experience with live music, DJs, themed parties, and special dining across venues like Hard Rock Live, Rising Star, and Pat O’Brien’s. Many spots host their own countdowns, making CityWalk a festive option without needing a theme park ticket. 

International Drive: Nightlife, Parties and Countdown Celebrations 

International Drive becomes one of Orlando’s biggest New Year’s Eve hotspots. Lights, music, themed parties, and festive menus fill the district and offer something for every celebration style.

• NYE Live! at Pointe Orlando: A multi-venue block party with DJs, party favors, elevated food stations, and VIP upgrades that include all-inclusive drinks. The night ends with a midnight ball drop.
• ICEBAR Orlando – Ice Masquerade NYE Party: Experience more than 70 tons of hand-carved ice, thermal coats, a Fire Lounge dance floor, DJ sets, a champagne bar, and a midnight buffet.
• Mango’s Tropical Café – Dinner and Entertainment Show: Enjoy high-energy performances, Latin cuisine, specialty cocktails, and a lively New Year’s Eve countdown.
• Cuba Libre Orlando – Dinner, Live Music and Afterparty: Celebrate with a festive Cuban buffet or à la carte dining, DJ entertainment, a midnight champagne toast, and late-night dancing.
• ICON Park – The Orlando Eye and NYE Festivities: Ride The Orlando Eye for panoramic views of fireworks throughout Orlando. Many ICON Park restaurants and venues offer special menus and countdown events.
• Local Bars and Lounges Along International Drive: These spots are ideal for a casual and energetic night out. Popular choices include Tin Roof Orlando, Ole Red Orlando, The Hampton Social, and Yard House. Many offer DJs, themed parties, and midnight celebrations.

Extend Your Stay for More Holiday Fun 

Why let the celebrations end on New Year’s Eve? Many holiday-themed attractions are available through early January, offering extra opportunities for festive experiences, daytime activities, and memorable family adventures. Take advantage of a few extra days in Orlando to soak up the holiday spirit. 

Seasonal Attractions Near International Drive 

• SEA LIFE Aquarium – Deck the Seas: Explore underwater holiday displays and festive exhibits that continue after the main celebrations have ended.
• Museum of Illusions – Frostbites Winterland Adventure: Discover holiday-themed optical illusions and unique seasonal photo opportunities perfect for all ages.
• ICON Park – Christmas Tree and Seasonal Décor: Wander through beautifully lit displays, festive decorations, and family-friendly photo spots. 

Short Drive Day Trips for Extra Festive Fun 

Just a few minutes from International Drive, these experiences make perfect day trips for anyone looking to extend the holiday magic: 

• Leu Gardens – Holiday Lights in the Garden: Stroll through thousands of twinkling lights and illuminated botanical displays for a peaceful and enchanting experience.
• Downtown Orlando – NYE Block Parties and Rooftop Events: Enjoy rooftop venues, citywide parties, and live DJ celebrations while catching the last fireworks and festive performances of the season.
• Winter Park – Holiday Markets and Dining: Explore charming boutiques, seasonal treats, and special New Year’s Eve menus along picturesque Park Avenue.
• LEGOLAND® Florida Resort – Seasonal Family Celebrations: LEGOLAND Florida transforms into a playful holiday destination with seasonal décor, interactive activities, and festive entertainment for children and families. Select holiday dates include a kid-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration with early fireworks and music, making it an easy daytime option for families looking to celebrate the season without staying out late. 

The Perfect Place to Stay and Celebrate the New Year 

With modern rooms, a lively atmosphere, and an unbeatable location on International Drive, Avanti International Resort puts you right in the center of Orlando’s biggest New Year’s Eve celebrations. And the party doesn't stop there, guests at Avanti International Resort can join in on  the incredible NYE celebration at the Pool Bar, featuring:

• Retro Night with a live DJ
• The official New York City New Year’s Eve ball drop on the big screen
• A complimentary champagne toast & appetizers
• Party favors and sponsor giveaways 

Enjoy great music and fun poolside, and raise a glass to the new year. Avanti International Resort offers everything you need for a fun, festive, and unforgettable way to welcome 2026.