NYE Bonus Hours, Entertainment at California Theme Parks

California Travel Tips

NYE Bonus Hours, Entertainment at California Theme Parks

Published on: December 30, 2018

New Year’s Eve at Theme Parks

While several California theme parks are not extending their hours for New Year’s Eve parties this year (SeaWorld San Diego, Six Flag Magic Mountain in Valencia, and Six Flags Discovery Kingdom in Vallejo,) the majority are offering bonus entertainment at the regular admission!

If you’re looking for something special to do, head to Disneyland New Year’s Eve Celebration where the park closes at 2 a.m., and there’s not one but two fireworks displays. There’s one at 9 p.m. and then again at 11:55 p.m., plus countdowns throughout the park.

If multiple fireworks ring your NYE bell, Universal Studios Hollywood theme park this year features several overhead displays visible in the park, which guests can enjoy with extended hours till 2 a.m. Best of all, you pay the usual gate admission and get to stay late to enjoy DJs, dance parties and more.

Knott’s Berry Farm annual NYE celebration offers music, dance, food options, and fun till 1 a.m. Again, you can buy the normal admission ticket and enjoy the bonus hours and entertainment.

San Diego County’s Legoland California offers pint-size entertainment with an early NYE countdown for kids. The fireworks display usually takes place over the Lego-brick New York City.

In the Bay Area there are 2 special treats to ring in 2019. California’s Great America in Santa Clara is having a NYE party with fireworks and a party that goes past midnight. It’s a fun way to celebrate.

At Gilroy Gardens there’s a special New Year’s Eve event on December 31 which closes the park at midnight.