As the year draws to a close, New York City once again gets ready to throw one of the biggest celebrations in the world. The Big Apple is famous for its New Year’s Eve celebrations, and the fireworks shows are a big part of the fun. From the bright lights of Times Square to quieter events for families the city has something for everyone.
New York: When do the fireworks start?
Fireworks usually go off right at midnight, marking the start of the new year.
Can you watch New York’s fireworks online?
Yes! The fireworks in Times Square are usually livestreamed, so even if you can’t be there in person, you can still join the celebration from home.
Best places to watch New Year’s Eve fireworks in NYC
1. Prospect Park, Brooklyn
Where: Grand Army Plaza
The Vibe: Local, festive, and lively.
Prospect Park is one of the best free spots to enjoy fireworks without Midtown chaos. The park usually hosts live music and entertainment starting around 10 PM. For the best views, pick a spot along Prospect Park West or inside the park near the plaza.
2. Central Park, Manhattan
Where: Sheep Meadow or the 72nd Street Transverss
The Vibe: Romantic and iconic.
Central Park’s midnight fireworks are launched from the 72nd Street area. The NYRR Midnight Run also starts here, with runners racing four miles under the fireworks at midnight. If you’re not running, Bethesda Terrace offers a beautiful, though crowded, vantage point to enjoy the show.
3. Brooklyn Bridge Park
Where: Piers 1 through 6 in DUMBO
The Vibe: Scenic and photogenic.
This spot gives the beautiful “Postcard View” of Manhattan. You can see multiple fireworks across the harbour with the Manhattan Bridge and skyline in the background. Walk the Brooklyn Heights Promenade for a stunning view that captures both the harbor fireworks and the Statue of Liberty.
4. New Year’s Eve Cruises
Vessels: Circle Line, Hornblower, and various private yachts
The Vibe: Premium and celebratory.
If you want to skip street crowds, a harbor cruise puts you right under the fireworks. Cruises often include dinner, open bars, and DJs. The views of the Statue of Liberty fireworks are especially stunning.
5. Rooftop Bars
NYC rooftop bars offer bird’s-eye views of the city’s fireworks displays.
Some of the top picks are
230 Fifth: Huge outdoor space with views of the Empire State Building
The Press Lounge (Ink 48): Panoramic views of the Hudson River and Midtown
Westlight (Brooklyn): 360-degree views of Manhattan, Queens, and Brooklyn
6. Times Square
Times Square is famous for the Ball Drop, but it’s not the traditional fireworks show you might expect. The main event is a massive confetti drop and small pyrotechnics. Fireworks at Times Square and Central Park have not yet been officially confirmed. The Times Square fireworks are usually livestreamed. Apart from fireworks, families with young children can celebrate early at the Children’s Museum of Manhattan.