New Year’s Eve is a time for celebrations, cool events, and, of course, fireworks. And some of the best New Year’s events and fireworks shows take place at ski resorts. From torchlight parades to fireworks and family events, we’ve listed some of the best ski resorts to ring in the new year at. For more New Year’s Eve events, head to our article here, featuring some of the best New Year’s Eve celebrations in ski towns.
Best North America Ski Resorts for New Year’s Eve Fireworks
Whistler Blackcomb, British Columbia
As we mentioned in this article about the top New Year’s Eve ski town celebrations, Whistler pulls out all the stops for its fireworks display. Whistler Village is bustling on New Year’s Eve with live music, entertainment, kids activities, and more. Don’t miss a special edition of the Fire & Ice Show at 7:30 p.m. (and 11:30 p.m.) before catching the stunning fireworks display at 8 p.m. Put the kids to bed and then come back for the midnight fireworks show. Tip: The fireworks are best viewed from Skier’s Plaza.
Jackson, Wyoming
Start your New Year’s Eve off by watching mountain torchlight parades at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Snow King Mountain, or further afield at Grand Targhee. Each parade is followed by a fireworks display. Additionally, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort in Teton Village hosts a Glow Worm Parade at 5:30 p.m., which children up to age 14 can participate in. Glow sticks substitute for torchlights as the kids traverse down the Eagles Nest run from the top of the new Sweetwater Gondola. Resort employees and guests participate in a traditional torchlight procession at 6 p.m. on Apres-Vous, followed by fireworks at 7 p.m. over the Village’s parking lot.
Snow King’s torchlight parade is the oldest torchlight parade in the valley. Since the 1950s, Jackson skiers have ridden to the top of the mountain and, with torches in hand, made their way slowly down the Town Hill. The torchlight parade is at 6:15 p.m., with fireworks following at 7 p.m.
Last, but not least, kids start their New Year’s Eve fun activities at The Grand Targhee Resort with a Glowstick Parade at 4:30 p.m. Adults catch up with a torchlight event at 5:30.
» Check out lodging options in Montana.
Smugglers’ Notch, Vermont
It’s all about family-friendly activities at Vermont’s Smugglers’ Notch at New Year’s. Glow Tubing from 5-7 p.m., on Sir Henry’s Hill, is a unique and fun way to celebrate the near year for all ages. An array of LED lights line and illuminate the Snow Tubing Hill lanes for tubers to enjoy as they speed down. No special equipment is necessary, however, a SmuggsPass is required.
Join the Friendly Pirate Party with Friendly Pirate and Billy Bob Bear in the lower level of the Meeting House for singing and dancing from 7-8 p.m. Afterward, catch the New Year’s Celebration Bonfire & Fireworks at 9 p.m. at the Gazebo, hosted by Jammin’ Sam. He continues with the greatest hits of all time from 9:45 -11 p.m., as your whole family can dance their way out of 2023. Pick up party favors in the lower level of the Meeting House.
» Check out lodging options at Smugglers’ Notch.
Sun Peaks, British Columbia
At Sun Peaks, 100 kids can be a part of the glow stick parade, although kids must be able to ski or ride Sunbeam Run with confidence. A valid lift ticket for Dec. 31 is required. Strong blue terrain skiers or riders 16 and up can participate in the torchlight parade, followed by fireworks on the Sunburst side of the resort at 8:30 p.m.
If all this activity has made you hungry, several restaurants are hosting special holiday dinners.
» Check out lodging options at Sun Peaks.
Heavenly, California
South Lake Tahoe (smack on the California-Nevada border) starts the evening fun at 5 p.m. in Guitar Plaza in Heavenly Village and goes to 7:30. DJ CashMaster picks up from 7:30-8:40 p.m. At 9:00 p.m., coinciding with NYC’s midnight Ball Drop, Heavenly’s Gondola Ball Drop will cross above the crowd, with a fireworks show lighting up the night.
» Check out lodging options at Heavenly Mountain.
December 14, 2023
