Guide to New Year's Eve in Las Vegas

The Las Vegas Strip is a popular place to ring in the new year. Not only does every bar, club, and casino seem to have something going on, but an entire five blocks of Fremont Street shuts down for one of the biggest block parties of the year. There's no shortage of New Year's Eve entertainment, but you'll need to know what to expect, where to stay, and how to dress before you partake.

New Year's 2020–2021

Many of the New Year's celebrations across Las Vegas are canceled or scaled back for 2020–2021, such as the city's big firework display over the Strip. However, you can still see fireworks over Fremont Street, which is Las Vegas' biggest New Year's event. All of Fremont Street in downtown Vegas is shut down for a massive block party, with human beings flying overhead on the five-block long zipline. Even though it's on the street, there is an admission to get in, and health guidelines are in place for NYE 2021.

While many nightclub and dance events aren't taking place, several resorts are hosting their own smaller events. The lounges at major hotels such as the Venetian, Caesars Palace, and the Cosmopolitan are hosting special events with private tables and bottle service. And even though there isn't a firework show to see on the Strip at midnight, you can be sure each resort has something special planned to ring in the new year.

What to Know

Las Vegas on the night of New Year's Eve is crowded, as you might expect. What you might not expect is that it can also be cold. Vegas may be in the middle of the desert, but winter nights can get chilly. The average low in January is 38 degrees Fahrenheit, so if you plan to barhop or celebrate on the street, be sure to dress warmly.

The roads close on the night of New Year's Eve, so plan to be at least within walking distance of your destination by 4 p.m. Fireworks usually erupt at midnight and each casino puts on its own show, as well. For the best view in town, book a ride ahead of time with Sundance Helicopters to watch the display from the sky.

How to Find a Party

Las Vegas is a party destination year-round, so you shouldn't have a problem finding festivities on the biggest party night of the year. Check with your hotel to see what's happening nearby, and ask about the most popular annual events that typically always happen on New Year's Eve.

• The major nightclubs, like Tao and Drai's, aren't hosting their usual dance parties, but the lounges at both are open for table service on New Year's Eve 2020–2021.
• Fremont Street Experience is the official New Year's Eve party of Las Vegas. It turns five city blocks into a mega midnight street party.
• Alternatively, you can try to watch the fireworks on Fremont Street from up high, like at the 1,150-feet-high 107 SkyLounge in the Stratosphere Tower or at Beer Park and Chateau. These places fill up fast, so make your reservations in advance.

Where to Stay and Eat

You'll either want to find a party that's close to your hotel or a hotel that's close to your party (probably the latter). Once the crowds get big, it's extremely difficult to get around, so it's essential to choose destinations that are walkable.

Some of the most ideal hotels are the Cosmopolitan, Flamingo, or the Palazzo, all of which throw New Year's Eve extravaganzas of their own. Alternatively, you could stay away from The Strip altogether to save some money. Many hotels also offer special room packages that include dinner plans and more, so keep an eye out for these as they're announced.

As for dining options, you can expect Vegas' restaurants to be fully booked on New Year's Eve, so make reservations early. You could go somewhere like Margaritaville for simultaneous dinner and entertainment (big-name acts have been known to play here) or opt for the open bar party at Cabo Wabo Cantina. If you want a more upscale option, try Top of the World at the Strat (one floor down from the bar, conveniently), Italian fare at Sinatra, and the garden-inspired eatery Jardin.