Unforgettable New Year's Eve in Vail: Ultimate Guide to Celebrate in Style

It’s a rite of passage in Colorado to escape to the mountains and ring in the new year surrounded by peaks, music, and beautiful open sky. The villages are full of celebratory events, including multi-course meals at restaurants, midnight Champagne toasts at hotels, dance parties at bars and other spectacular end-of-year Vail events.

The Valley offers unique New Year’s experiences, though some may require reservations made in advance. We’ll guide you through the best things to do, where to dine, and how to make the most of your trip to the heart of the Rockies.

Getting to Vail Valley

Traveling to the Vail Valley from Denver can be busy, especially over the holiday weekend. You can fly directly into the Vail/Eagle County Regional Airport or Denver International Airport (DIA). From DIA, take a shuttle or rent a car. If you are more of a road tripper, get ready for a drive through ski towns and along mountainsides.

However, being that I-70 is so heavily trafficked in the winter, it is typical to experience delays. To avoid the heaviest traffic, aim to travel on weekdays. Friday afternoons in the Vail Valley can see delays of up to 4 hours at times. For a smoother driving experience, consider traveling outside of the weekend on days like Wednesday or Thursday. The same goes for driving back to Denver after your trip.

New Year's Eve Events and Activities

New Year’s Eve in the Vail Valley offers something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a lively night out or family-friendly fun. Many venues require advance tickets, so planning ahead is key.

For Adults (21+)

For those over 21, Vail Valley has a vibrant mix of New Year’s Eve experiences. From high-energy dance floors to romantic, elevated celebrations, there’s something for every style of night out.

Havana Nights New Year’s Eve at Chasing Rabbits: Experience a sizzling night with entertainment and dancing.
Bad Kitty Lounge in Vail: Dance the night away at this lively spot with great music and drinks. Stop by Bad Kitty Lounge for a one-of-a-kind Vail experience complete with retro tropical-drink wallpaper, a rotating disco ski boot - and no official menu. That’s right, this place is menu-less, but with master mixologists behind the bar, you won’t need one.
Bridge Street Bar: Celebrate with locals and visitors alike in the heart of Vail. Dance and sing the night away at Bridge Street Bar, a Vail hot spot with all types of musical entertainment.
Beano’s Cabin: More geared towards couples, this exclusive event offers a romantic and unique way to enjoy the valley and holiday.
The Red Lion is a favorite of locals and visitors for its delicious meals, good music and cold drinks - especially during New Year’s Eve when the tavern hosts fun 21+ events. In the past, these special nights included live entertainment, multi-course dinners, party favors such as hats and tiaras, and popping bubbly at the stroke of midnight.
Located at the top of Bridge Street, the Shakedown Bar is a 21+ live-music joint which usually hosts a rockin’ New Year’s Eve party. This is a true bar with plenty of drinks to go around but no kitchen - so eat before you go.

Family-Friendly Events

Families and those under 21 can enjoy a magical New Year’s Eve with a variety of festive, family-friendly events.

New Year’s Eve Torchlight Parade & Fireworks at Golden Peak: For a fun, family-friendly NYE event, attend the New Year’s Eve Torchlight Parade & Fireworks at Golden Peak. See the mountain light up as ski instructors create a serpentine parade down the mountain with lit flares. The parade is followed by a dazzling fireworks display that can often be seen across the valley. This celebration happens earlier in the evening, so you can share this special moment with the kiddos and still get them in bed at a decent hour.
In Beaver Creek, take in the fireworks display or enjoy a holiday concert at the Vilar Performing Arts Center.
Gypsum’s New Year’s Eve Fireworks and the iconic Torchlight Parade add even more sparkle to the night.
Holiday concerts at the Vilar Performing Arts Center: Attend a holiday movie screening, or enjoy live Christmas music performances.

Vail Colorado, New Years Eve Night Flight | DJI Mavic 2 Zoom

Dining Options for New Year's Eve

Dining in the Vail Valley on New Year’s Eve offers an array of exceptional culinary experiences. From cozy bistros to upscale restaurants, you’ll find a spot perfect for your celebration. Be sure to check hours and make reservations in advance. Many restaurants and bars in the area require reservations or ticket purchases before your visit.

Local tip! Many restaurants across Vail, Edwards, and Beaver Creek offer special menus for New Year’s Eve weekend.

Restaurant Recommendations

While usually known for its spectacular brunch, Ludwig’s located in the Sonnenalp Hotel, hosts an annual NYE dinner. The menu and style of the meal may change from year to year, but you can always expect the same culinary excellence that Ludwig’s delivers every morning.
In the Lionshead Village, you can count on Vail Chophouse for an exciting night to ring in the new year. Celebrations can include multi-course meals, live music, after-dinner events, party favors and a Champagne toast at midnight. These activities are ticketed, so snag yours early.
At Gessner Restaurant and Bar, revel in floor-to-ceiling vistas of the snow-covered forest and Gore Creek as you dine on a sumptuous NYE dinner (reservations required). Extend the evening and join the after-dinner party with Champagne cheers at midnight amid music and a jovial crowd.
Savor a New Year’s Eve dinner at one of Vail’s most iconic restaurants, Sweet Basil. Known for its decadent meals that use seasonal ingredients, this meal will knock your skis off.
Chasing Rabbits is known for hosting extravagant, themed NYE bashes. These blowouts offer a variety of entertainment, including DJs, dancers, magicians and interactive experiences.
DECA + BOL is an excellent choice for New Year’s Eve food and entertainment. Nom on everything from small plates to full-size entrees and delicious drinks at the restaurant. Then, mosey over to the bowling area and start knocking back pins in a cool lounge-style atmosphere. Each lane can host up to six guests - perfect for an intimate NYE celebration.
The Remedy Bar is a chic après-ski scene located in the Four Seasons Resort and Residences Vail. Warm up with their famous Haut Chocolat as it’s poured in front of you or go straight for the adult beverages and a spot around their outdoor patio firepits.

Transportation Tips

New Year’s Eve can be a difficult night to find a parking spot, especially if you are heading towards Vail. Consider utilizing the Valley’s connected public transportation system like the Eco Bus. Located just a 2-minute walk from The Inn at Riverwalk and across US-6, the bus runs late into the night and is free to hop on. If you do decide to drive, keep in mind driving times between the towns, factoring in weather conditions. If you’re planning to ski at Beaver Creek, Inn guests can take advantage of complimentary shuttle services.

However you plan to spend your New Year’s Eve, whether under sparkling fireworks in Gypsum or mountainside in Beaver Creek over dinner, it’s essential to stay central to all the action.

tags: #new #years #eve #vail