Ringing in the New Year: Your NYE Fireworks Guide

If you’re looking for a festive, family‑friendly way to welcome 2026, Kentucky Kingdom’s New Year’s Eve celebration has everything you want, and fewer of the things you don’t. Skip the midnight rush and the long drive home, and instead enjoy rides, lights, fun, and one amazing fireworks show that ends early enough for everyone.

What’s Open and What to Expect

• The park is hosting a spectacular NYE Fireworks Show on Tuesday, December 31 at approximately 8:50 PM, with fireworks shooting up to 350 feet high and choreographed to music.
• Fireworks viewing is included with park admission, and you can see the display from anywhere in the park, so there’s no “bad seat.”

Regular attractions will be open during the celebration from 3pm to 9pm, making this a full‑day experience rather than just an evening event.

Family-Friendly Timeline

Afternoon Arrival (~3:00 - 4:00PM)
Arrive early to beat the rush, get settled, and enjoy some daylight rides and holiday lights. For younger children, this timing means plenty of fun before things get more crowded.

Golden Hour to Evening (~5:00 ‑ 7:30 PM)
As daylight fades and the décor lights up, this is the perfect time for those Instagram‑worthy family photos. Stop for a warm snack, check out character meet‑and‑greets, and pick a good spot for the fireworks.

Fireworks (~8:50 PM)
Settle in about 10–15 minutes before the show so you can enjoy without scrambling. After the show, you can either wrap it up or enjoy one last ride while the park is still buzzing.

Head Home (~9:00 PM)
Since the fireworks happen earlier than typical NYE countdowns, you can be home at a decent hour, no midnight drive required.

Pro Tips for Best Viewing & Photos

To make the most of the fireworks show, choose a viewing spot with an open view of the sky. Areas near the plazas or the front gate typically offer great sightlines. Arriving early allows your group to settle in, and bringing a compact blanket can help little ones stay comfortable while they wait. If you’re hoping to capture photos, plan to arrive during the “blue hour,” just after sunset, when there’s still some natural light to complement the park’s festive glow. Be sure to dress in layers, as Louisville evenings can turn chilly, and having a few snacks or small drinks on hand is always a smart move, especially when visiting with kids.

Make It a Night to Remember

With festive lights twinkling, hot cocoa in hand, and fireworks painting the sky, New Year's Eve at Kentucky Kingdom is a memory in the making. Whether you’re ringing in the new year with little ones or the whole extended family, it’s the perfect way to celebrate together. Grab your tickets early, bundle up, and let the countdown begin.