Walt Disney World is now taking reservations for The Magic of New Year’s Eve at California Grill, a December 31 event pairing a four-course dinner atop Disney’s Contemporary Resort with a front-row view of the fireworks over Magic Kingdom as guests ring in 2027.
Two seatings are on offer, and one has already disappeared from the booking system.
Seating Times and Prices
Early seating runs from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. at $299 per person. Late seating runs from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. at $379 per person, an $80 premium. Both include the full four-course meal and fireworks access, with Disney confirming, “Fireworks viewing will take place at the end of each seating.”
At the time of publication, only early seating times are bookable. The late seating shows no availability.
That could change. Disney charges a fee for cancellations made within 24 hours of a reservation, giving guests with shifting plans every incentive to release their tables before that cutoff. Diners set on the later slot should check daily.
What’s Included
The night revolves around a four-course menu created exclusively for the event, accompanied by a live band throughout dinner and photo opportunities with Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse. Each seating ends with access to a designated viewing area for the special New Year’s Eve fireworks over Magic Kingdom, and guests 21 and older receive a complimentary glass of champagne for a toast.
On the Menu
Disney says the menu takes inspiration from the chef’s culinary journey and California market cuisine.
- First course: Pacific Woodland Roll and Chutoro Maki Roll
- Second course: Langoustine Gnocchetti Sardi, Wagyu Carpaccio, Fruits de Mer, Black Winter Truffle and Four Cheese Flatbread, or Tempura-Fried Coral Mushrooms
- Main course: Aged Wagyu Striploin, Milk-Fed Suckling Pig, Hokkaido Scallop, Petite French Quail, or Brown ‘Butter’ Agnolotti
- Dessert: Yuzu and Champagne Pavlova, Midnight Chocolate Delice, California Winter Citrus Cheesecake, or Coconut Panna Cotta
Optional extras can be purchased.
Know Before You Book
Guests check in through the My Disney Experience app when they arrive on the Contemporary’s second floor. A cast member then escorts them to the 15th floor using an elevator dedicated to California Grill diners.
Signature Dining dress expectations apply, so guests should wear clean, neat attire appropriate for an upscale venue. Swimwear is not allowed. Reservations must be canceled at least 24 hours in advance to avoid a per-person fee, and no-shows are charged the full price to the card on file. Disney Dining Plan credits are not accepted.
Other Ways to Celebrate
Three parks will present fireworks on December 31. Magic Kingdom offers the most opportunities, with Fantasy in the Sky at 6:30 p.m. and 11:50 p.m. on both December 30 and December 31, for four performances. The December 30 shows may suit guests trying to avoid the biggest crowds.
EPCOT keeps Luminous The Symphony of Us in its regular 6:30 p.m. slot on December 31, followed by Cheers to the New Year: A Sparkling Celebration at 11:54 p.m. Disney’s Hollywood Studios holds its New Year Countdown Fireworks until 11:57 p.m.
Early seating is the realistic target for now, so book soon. Late seating hopefuls should monitor the app daily. At $299 or $379 per person, this is a premium splurge for guests after a polished, park-free way to welcome 2027.
Will you be spending New Year’s Eve at Disney World? Tell us in the comments below!
