New Year's Eve in Anchorage 2025-2026

New Year's Eve is definitely one of the best times to visit Alaska. If you want a truly snowy celebration, just like in the fairy-tales, head to Anchorage—Alaska's largest city located in the south-central part of the state. Anchorage celebrates the New Year's with a variety of parties, firework displays, and music performances.

New Year's Eve Fireworks by Anchorage Downtown Partnership

Anchorage's main New Year's Eve celebration occurs downtown. The Anchorage Downtown Partnership, Ltd. organizes an annual celebration consisting of drive-in fireworks and a live music show. The event starts at 7 pm and lasts until 9 pm, with a magnificent fireworks display at 8 pm. The event unfolds in the Chinook parking lot, situated at the intersection of 3rd Avenue and E Street. The celebration has long become a tradition for the local community, who gather here to welcome the new year and spend time with their loved ones.

High Gravity Bash at 49th State Brewing

To enjoy the fireworks from the rooftop and taste delicious specialty drinks, swing by the High Gravity Bash, an annual party at the beloved brewery. The event is a great opportunity to enjoy the magnificent pyrotechnic display while sipping delicious cocktails and mingling with the locals. Since the place is quite popular this time of the year, reservations are recommended. If you're planning just to have a dinner, reserving the table beforehand is not required but strongly recommended. The reservation fee is $5 per person. Fireworks usually begin at 7:30 pm.

Dance Party at the Hotel Captain Cook

Organized by local enthusiasts and klef98 radio station, the New Year's Eve parties have been a longstanding tradition at the Hotel Captain Cook in downtown Anchorage. The parties are a theme, with the latest edition inspired by "The Wizard of Oz" and called "Dance Up the Yellow Brick Road." The event features a DJ-curated dance party, a buffet with delicious appetizers and drinks, and a celebratory champagne toast at midnight. The doors normally open at 7 pm, followed by dancing at 8 pm, spanning until midnight.

Other Winter Attractions in Alaska

The most magical New Year’s Eve spots are located away from the city and light pollution. After all, Alaska is famous for its northern lights. But if you are not lucky enough to catch the elusive aurora borealis, check out the glow of the New Year’s Eve Torchlight Parade at Alyeska Resort in Girdwood.

New Year’s Eve Torchlight Parade at Alyeska Resort in Girdwood

Alyeska Resort, situated just 42 miles (68 km) from Anchorage, offers a prime New Year's Eve celebration, perfect to sign off the year. Besides skiing on the snowy hills of the resort, stop by the Ted's Express chairlift to witness a majestic parade. The spectators board Ted’s Express at around 8:15 pm, while the event begins at 9 pm and is followed by a magical fireworks display. The visitors can also countdown until midnight and enjoy great live music at the Sitzmark Bar & Grill. Tickets are required to enter the establishment.