New Year's Eve in Cincinnati 2024-2025

Cincinnati, OH, is a fantastic place to ring in the New Year. From cruises to parties, the city provides numerous ways to celebrate and welcome the year ahead.

New Year's Eve Events at Fountain Square

Visitors can celebrate New Year's Eve at Fountain Square in Cincinnati with a free, family-friendly event featuring music, games, and midnight fireworks. The UC Health Ice Rink will be open for skating (standard ticket prices apply), while guests can warm up with drinks from the bar and gather around the heaters. A Kids Countdown happens at 7:10 pm, followed by the main Midnight Countdown to welcome the New Year.

New Year’s Eve Cruise

For those looking to celebrate into the early hours, Cincinnati's New Year’s Eve Cruise from 9 pm to 1 am offers a memorable night on the Ohio River. Guests can enjoy a three-entree buffet, a midnight champagne toast, party favors, and plenty of entertainment against the backdrop of Cincinnati’s skyline. Boarding begins at 8 p.m. BB Riverboats also hosts a special Kids New Year’s Lunch Cruise earlier in the day, with boarding at 10:30 am for an 11:30 am sail.

New Year’s Eve at Cincinnati Zoo

Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden hosts a lively New Year’s Eve celebration perfect for families. Starting at 1 pm, visitors can enjoy the zoo, with PNC Festival of Lights activities kicking off at 4 p.m. The event, known as Happy Zoo Year, features an 8 p.m. countdown tailored for kids. Highlights include puppet shows, rides on the Toyland Express, visits to Fairyland and Candy Cane Forest, and stops at Frozen characters and Gingerbread Village.

Winterfest New Year's Eve Countdown

Celebrate New Year’s Eve at King’s Island’s WinterFest with a lively countdown, a giant balloon drop, and a midnight fireworks show! The park, glowing with five million Christmas lights, offers live shows, rides, and festive holiday treats throughout WinterFest. Enjoy the family-friendly celebration from 4 pm to 1 am, complete with holiday characters and seasonal fun.

Holiday Lights

New Year’s Eve is also the right time to observe holiday lights. Pyramid Hill, the Cincinnati Zoo, Coney Island—enjoy the exhibit with fewer crowds by visiting on New Year’s Eve!