Happy New Year!

Dining on New Year’s Eve has become a celebration in itself. There are numerous Kissimmee restaurants to select from for this special occasion. Some people celebrate with a nice dinner out, only to return home to watch the ball drop on television before turning out the lights and beginning the New Year with a good nights’ sleep. Other folks, especially those here on vacation, want to ring in the New Year in a BIG way.

If dining out and returning home early is your plan, treat yourself to a fine dining experience at one of the restaurants mentioned in this previous post. Other family restaurants in Kissimmee can also be considered if you have children. One thing is certain, you must make your reservations or plans now. Even if reservations are not required, some planning will help the evening go smoother, especially if you have a large party or young children.

Tourists here on vacation can experience a New Year’s Eve celebration no matter which primary theme park they are visiting. Legoland has an early version for the youngsters. SeaWorld features music and fireworks as well as Universal, especially CityWalk and all of the Disney parks. Walt Disney World probably does it up the biggest with a different celebration at each theme park:  Magic Kingdom “Wishes” is at 8:30 p.m. and “Fantasy in the Sky” at 11:50 p.m. Epcot‘s “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth” begins at 6:30 p.m. and 11:40 p.m. At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, “Fantasmic!” will be presented at 6:30 and 8 p.m., with “Lights! Camera! Happy New Year!” fireworks display at midnight. New Year’s Eve events are included with the purchase of all of these theme park tickets.

At Capone’s Dinner & Show, there are two opportunities to celebrate on New Year’s Eve as well. The early show begins at 6:00 p.m. with plenty of time to return home to watch the ball drop. This Kissimmee restaurant is a favorite with families and offers a great bargain with their half off coupon for the early show. The New Year’s Eve Gala beginning at 9:00 p.m. is for guests that want to ring in the New Year with a blast! The full price ticket (no coupons accepted) includes the buffet, unlimited beverages, a champagne toast at midnight, party favors, a midnight snack bar, D.J. and dancing into the wee hours of the New Year. Purchase your tickets (which insures your reservation) now for this Kissimmee restaurant holiday celebration. It is fun for the entire family and can be enjoyed by all ages, provided they want to stay up past midnight!

No matter how you plan to ring in the New Year, it goes without saying, don’t drink and drive. Many hotels in Kissimmee have restaurants as part of their location. These Kissimmee restaurants can be very enjoyable on a holiday such as New Year’s Eve. Have a few drinks and find your way back to your hotel room. Very safe. You can also program these local taxi service numbers into your cell phone: County Taxi – 407-397-9497 and Checker Cab – 407-846-8294 so when you go out (and drink without designating a non-drinking driver), you’ll have the number handy to call for a ride. They can provide service from any Kissimmee restaurant to your home or hotel. As in years past, AAA offers their Tow To Go in Florida on New Year’s Eve by calling 855-286-9246. You may have to wait awhile for their service, but it is a great alternative to a DUI.

However you plan to ring in the New Year, be safe. Enjoy the people you have in your life, and vow to make new friends and keep family close/closer. Begin the New Year with your resolutions ready, and let’s make 2013 a great year!

Last Updated on October 21, 2023