Theme parks planning special events to ring in 2011 on New Year's Eve
Many of the theme parks and attractions are holding special events to welcome the new year on Dec. 31. Some are included with your park admission and some cost extra. Here’s a look at what’s happening.
Universal Orlando
Multi-platinum rock artist Bret Michaels will be in concert at Universal CityWalk. Known for being the lead singer/songwriter for the band Poison, Michaels has sold more than 25 million albums worldwide. He’s also starred in multiple TV shows, including VH1’s Rock of Love and the NBC series, Celebrity Apprentice.
New Year’s Eve guests will also be able to party throughout CityWalk with live entertainment and DJs in seven of CityWalk’s clubs. Party-goers will dine on gourmet cuisine including filet mignon, jumbo shrimp and decadent desserts – and welcome 2011 with a midnight champagne toast and confetti bursts.
Universal CityWalk’s New Year’s Eve celebration takes place from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. Tickets are $119.99 plus tax per person if purchased by Dec. 27. From Dec. 28 to Dec. 31, the price increases to $139.99 plus tax per person. Special discounts are available for Universal Orlando Annual Passholders. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit universalorlando.com/holidays.
Walt Disney World
Magic Kingdom
• Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade at 12 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.
• Fantasy in the Sky fireworks at 11:50 p.m.
Park Hours: 8 a.m. to 2 a.m.
Hollywood Studios
• Fantasmic! at 6:30 p.m., 8 p.m. and 10 p.m.
• Live performances by in-park band “Mulch, Sweat and Shears” at Mickey’s Sorcerer’s Hat at 8 p.m., 9 p.m., 10 p.m. and 11 p.m.
• Lights, Camera, Happy New Year fireworks starring Mulch, Sweat and Shears at 11:55 p.m.
Park hours: 8 a.m. to 12 a.m.
Epcot
• Special version of “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth” at 7:30 p.m. and 11:40 p.m.
Park hours: 8 a.m. to 1 a.m.
La Hacienda de San Angel at Epcot
La Hacienda de San Angel is offering a special six-course prix-fixe menu and live music starting at 9 p.m. for $199 per person, or $225 with wine and spirits (plus tax and gratuity), $49.95 ages 3 to 9 (Epcot admission required).
Bistro de Paris at Epcot
Bistro de Paris is offering a special prix-fixe New Year’s Eve menu for $150 per person, $225 with wine pairings with each course (Epcot admission required).
Cirque du Soleil
• 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. performances of La Nouba
• Special New Year’s Eve champagne toasts
• Guests will receive a limited-edition La Nouba pin created for the New Year’s Eve event
Cost: $67 to $133. More information can be found by calling 407-939-7328 or by visiting cirquedusoleil.com/lanouba
DisneyQuest
Ring in the New Year at DisneyQuest with favorite cyber attractions and games, a DJ Dance Party with a New Year’s Eve countdown, party favors and a coupon for a personal pizza and soda at FoodQuest
Party Hours: 8 p.m. to 1 a.m.
$39 per person in advance, $45 per person on Dec. 31.
More information can be found by calling 407-934-7639 or visiting disneyworld.com/disneyquestparty.
Atlantic Dance Hall at Disney’s BoardWalk
Dance into the New Year at Atlantic Dance Hall at Disney’s BoardWalk
Party Hours: 8 p.m. to 2 a.m., ages 21 and up.
$35 for access to the main floor of the Dance Hall, party favors and a champagne toast at midnight. $75 for a VIP ticket that adds a private upstairs area with seating; limited viewing for Epcot fireworks with guaranteed seating and coffee, tea or hot chocolate with dessert bar and a premium bar.
California Grill at Contemporary Resort:
California Grill will host a New Year’s Eve party featuring food stations, an open bar, a casino-style game room, DJ, dancing, Disney characters, live entertainment and a viewing location for the Magic Kingdom fireworks.
$525 per person, all inclusive
SeaWorld
Special fountain and fireworks show at midnight.
Busch Gardens
The Guess Who will be performing in Gwazi Park followed by fireworks at midnight.
