New Year's Eve in Denver is a community celebration filled with lively street parties, rooftop countdowns, family-friendly festivities, and Denver's famous sparkling mountain-city scenery.
Whether you're seeking an upscale night out, a cozy local gathering, or a front-row seat to fireworks over the skyline, Denver offers a memorable way to welcome the year ahead. Now, let's explore the best things to do in Denver on New Year's Eve!
Top Picks for New Year’s Eve
- Take in the fireworks at the 16th Street Mall.
- Celebrate with the community at The Great Hall.
- Get seated for a special NYE menu at a top Denver restaurant.
- Dress up to attend a black-tie open-bar party.
- Tour Denver’s Botanical Gardens and experience Blossoms of Light.
Fireworks & Public Celebrations in Denver
Denver’s New Year’s fireworks and public celebrations light up the entire downtown area. You can attend countdown experiences and lively street festivities that bring thousands together to welcome 2026.
16th Street Fireworks
16th Street Mall Fireworks are the kind of NYE Denver 2025 experience that feels bigger than the clock striking midnight. The show surprises people every year because the entire corridor becomes a viewing zone that stretches for blocks.
- Address: 16th Street Mall, Denver, CO 80202
- Date: December 31, 2025
- Ticket info: Free, open to the public
- Age requirements: All ages
- Vibe: High-energy street celebration with rooftop fireworks
- Pro Tip: The two-show format (9 PM + midnight) reduces crowd density, and the best views are usually found between Tremont Place and Arapahoe Street, where rooftop sightlines are clearest.
Dare to Be Dazzled!
Adventure awaits in Denver with high-energy Cirque du Soleil shows. Dive into a world of acrobatics and wonder.
Mile High Drone Show
Mile High Drone Show brings a completely different feel, replacing traditional sparks with synchronized aerial choreography that hovers above the Tivoli Quad. The show uses hundreds of drones to paint detailed shapes and animations in the sky. The precision is genuinely impressive, and the nightly 7 PM showtime makes it easy to catch.
- Address: Tivoli Quad, Auraria Campus, Denver, CO 80204
- Date: Nightly from November 21 – December 31, 2025
- Ticket info: Free, outdoor viewing
- Age requirements: All ages
- Vibe: Futuristic, quiet-sky light show
- Pro Tip: Drone patterns look sharper from slightly elevated spots on campus paths facing the quad, giving you clearer contrast against the skyline.
Crawl 'Til The Ball Falls: Denver NYE Bar Crawl 2025
Crawl 'Til The Ball Falls: Denver NYE Bar Crawl 2025 is a go-to option if you want to hop between multiple bars, soak in the local nightlife, and toast your way through the streets. Each venue has drink specials and live DJs, so you get the freedom to bounce around without being tied to just one party.
- Location: 1930 Blake St, Denver, CO 80202
- Date: December 31, 2025
- Ticket info: $20
- Age requirements: 21+
- Vibe: Lively, social, bar-to-bar exploration
- Pro Tip: Start your evening early at a lower bar and gradually work your way to rooftop or lounge spots to maximize your payoff and avoid peak drink prices.
New Year’s Eve in the Great Hall (Union Station)
New Year’s Eve in the Great Hall at Union Station offers a classy, open-concept celebration that feels both downtown and historic. Live DJs spin, guests mingle around champagne stations, and the architecture adds a sense of place to the countdown.
- Address: 1701 Wynkoop St, Denver, CO 80202
- Date: December 31, 2025
- Ticket info: Free
- Age requirements: All ages
- Vibe: Historic, elegant, community
- Pro Tip: Grab a spot near the mezzanine for a view of both the crowd and the station’s architectural details.
Denver Live Music & Dance Parties
Live music and dance parties turn NYE Denver 2025 into a citywide soundtrack, pulling people into packed venues, intimate lounges, and high-energy dance floors that keep the celebrations moving long after midnight.
Let's explore NYE events at some of the best venues and bars with live music in Denver.
Decadence: The Digital City
Decadence: The Digital City is a New Year’s electronic music festival. The production value rises every year with new visual tech and multi-stage setups. It’s a magnet for people who want more than a midnight countdown, and we love this event because the atmosphere feels electric but surprisingly organized.
- Address: 700 14th St, Denver, CO 80202
- Date: December 30 – 31, 2025
- Ticket info: Tiered festival passes. Prices vary.
- Age requirements: 18+
- Vibe: EDM festival with large-scale staging, visuals, and dancing
- Pro Tip: The indoor layout lets you avoid winter weather and stage-hop efficiently.
Nocturne’s 10th Annual NYE Celebration
Nocturne’s 10th Annual NYE Celebration is a jazz-driven night that feels intimate. We love this event because it treats New Year’s Eve like a full experience: exceptional food, cocktails, and performances that elevate the entire evening. It’s a good option for couples or small groups seeking atmosphere over chaos.
- Address: 1330 27th St, Denver, CO 80205
- Date: December 31, 2025
- Ticket info: Reserved dinner seatings + bar tickets
- Age requirements: 21+
- Vibe: Elegant jazz supper club
- Pro Tip: The acoustically designed room means every table gets excellent sound. Bar-only tickets are ideal if you want the music without committing to a full prix fixe dinner.
The Clocktower Cabaret's 20th Annual New Year's Eve Burlesque Bash
The Clocktower Cabaret's 20th Annual New Year's Eve Burlesque Bash is a celebration inside one of the city’s historic spaces. The underground showroom has a mix of burlesque performances, comedy shows, and live vocals!
- Address: 1601 Arapahoe St, Denver, CO 80202
- Date: December 31, 2025
- Ticket info: Tiered seating with VIP options
- Age requirements: 21+
- Vibe: Playful, cabaret-style burlesque with a festive twist
- Pro Tip: Seats closest to the stage offer the most interaction, but mezzanine tables give the best view of choreography and aerial acts.
NYE Cosmic Countdown
NYE Cosmic Countdown is a great way to ring in the New Year with a cosmic-themed celebration at Punch Bowl Social Denver. Guests can expect a midnight toast and themed décor, music bingo, DJ sets, arcade play, and a complimentary signature cocktail to kick off the night.
- Address: Punch Bowl Social,65 Broadway, Denver, CO 80203
- Date: Dec 31 at 9 PM to Jan 1 at 2 AM
- Ticket info: $22.68
- Age requirements: 21+
- Vibe: High-energy night filled with music, dancing, games, and astrology-inspired fun
- Pro Tip: The tarot readings cost a little extra!
Dinner & Gala Events in Denver
Dinner & gala events give a polished and celebratory feel, offering guests a chance to enjoy exceptional dining, thoughtful cocktails, and more. These gatherings appeal to people who want a more elevated evening out or to experience dining at one of the unique restaurants in Denver.
White Rose Gala (Roaring ’20s Theme)
White Rose Gala (Roaring ’20s Theme) brings a sense of vintage glamour with an atmosphere that feels theatrical the moment you step into the ballroom. Guests dress in sequins, feathers, and Art Deco silhouettes, which instantly elevates the entire night and makes it one of the most visually striking parties.
- Address: 1881 Curtis St, Denver, CO 80202
- Date: December 31, 2025
- Ticket info: Tiered tickets with VIP and reserved options
- Age requirements: 21+
- Vibe: Art-deco, Roaring ’20s luxury party
- Pro Tip: The most detailed themed attire tends to gather near the VIP areas, making them great spots for photos if you want the full 1920s aesthetic
Black-Tie Open-Bar VIP Party
Black-Tie Open-Bar VIP Party turns New Year’s Eve into a polished, high-energy night where guests dress to impress. The evening features a full open bar, live bands, and DJs. The massive balloon drop at midnight gives the countdown a dramatic, photo-worthy moment.
- Address: 1075 Park Ave W, Denver, CO 80205
- Date: December 31, 2025
- Ticket info: VIP tickets with an all-night open bar, with group packages available
- Age requirements: 21+
- Vibe: Upscale, festive, and casino-inspired
- Pro Tip: Choose a VIP early-entry ticket, as it’s the best way to enjoy the open bar before lines build and to secure a great spot for the midnight countdown.
New Year’s Eve Masquerade
New Year’s Eve Masquerade adds a layer of intrigue, and guests tend to commit to the look! The atmosphere feels closer to a curated ball than a typical Denver NYE party. The cocktails are crafted with the same care as the ambiance, and the limited capacity keeps the experience polished rather than crowded.
- Address: 1701 Wynkoop St, Denver, CO 80202
- Date: December 31, 2025
- Ticket info: Reserved event tickets with open-bar inclusions
- Age requirements: 21+
- Vibe: Sophisticated masquerade with upscale cocktails
- Pro Tip: The corner lounge seats provide the best skyline views for the midnight toast, and they’re the first to sell out, so booking early pays off.
Elway’s Downtown
Elway’s Downtown offers a warm, polished setting built around rich flavors and a lively, upscale dining room. The kitchen leans into celebratory dishes for the holiday, and the combination of live music with attentive service makes the evening feel thoughtfully assembled rather than rushed.
- Address: 1881 Curtis St, Denver, CO 80202
- Date: December 31, 2025
- Ticket info: Dinner reservations recommended. Prix fixe options may apply.
- Age requirements: All ages (21+ for bar seating)
- Vibe: Elevated steakhouse celebration with live music
- Pro Tip: Book the earlier seating if you want a quieter dining experience. Later slots allow for a more energetic room leading into the midnight toast.
American Elm New Year's Eve 2026 - Chef Tasting Menu
The American Elmis a favorite for diners who want an upscale prix-fixe experience without stepping into a hotel ballroom. Their New Year’s Eve dinners lean seasonal and elegant, and the multi-course format makes it feel like a true holiday meal.
American Elm’s New Year’s Eve tasting menu moves through six thoughtful courses and is sure to delight!
- Address: 4132 W 38th Ave, Denver, CO 80212
- Date: December 31, 2025
- Ticket info: $141.75
- Age requirements: All ages
- Vibe: Warm, refined, chef-forward dining
- Pro Tip: The menu is à la carte with plenty of delicious courses, starting with Seared Diver Scallops.
Denver Family & Kid-Friendly Events
Family and kid-friendly events are a great option to ring in the New Year. The best things to do in Denver with kids on NYE include daytime events, zoos, and botanical gardens.
Noon Year’s Eve at the Children’s Museum
Noon Year’s Eve at the Children’s Museum brings NYE Denver 2025 onto a kid-friendly schedule: ball drops happen every hour between 10 AM and 3 PM while the museum fills with festive music, crafts, and activities.
- Address: 2121 Children’s Museum Dr, Denver, CO 80211
- Date: December 31, 2025
- Ticket info: Regular museum admission Under Age 1: Free | Age 1: $17.75 | Ages 2 – 59: $19.75 | Age 60+: $17.75
- Age requirements: All ages (must be accompanied by an adult)
- Vibe: Bright, playful, early-day celebration with hourly ball drops
- Pro Tip: Arriving earlier means shorter lines.
Blossoms of Light
Blossoms of Light turns the Denver Botanic Gardens into a glowing winter walkway that feels calm, creative, and beautifully designed for families. The path winds through illuminated gardens, oversized sculptures, and color-changing displays that make the experience feel both magical and immersive.
- Address: 1007 York St, Denver, CO 80206
- Date: November 21, 2025 – January 11, 2026
- Ticket info: Timed-entry admission | Advance online purchase recommended
- Age requirements: All ages
- Vibe: Serene garden walk with immersive LED displays
- Pro Tip: The middle sections of the path are the least crowded and offer the best photo spots with the larger light installations.
Zoo Lights
Zoo Lights transforms the Denver Zoo into a glowing landscape of light sculptures perfect for family NYE Denver outings. Kids love the giant animated displays! Many Denver families return year after year, and the zoo always adds new displays to keep things fresh.
- Address: 2300 Steele St, Denver, CO 80205
- Date: November 23, 2025 – January 5, 2026
- Ticket info: Prices vary by night
- Age requirements: All ages
- Vibe: Playful, bright, festive, with animated animal light displays
- Pro Tip: Look for the bundled ticket option that includes warm drinks and ride vouchers.
How to Plan Your Night in Denver
Planning your NYE Denver 2025 celebration can make the difference between a smooth night and a stressful one. Here are simple, practical tips to help you get the best experience possible.
Getting Around
- In the past, RTD has provided free New Year’s Eve transit, which runs from 7:00 PM to 7:00 AM on January 1st.
- Rideshares surge heavily after midnight, so consider booking in advance or walking to a less crowded pickup point.
- If you’re attending downtown events, parking garages fill up early. Choose lots near Union Station or Ball Arena for easier exits.
Where to Stay
- Hotels near LoDo, RiNo, and the Theater District put you within walking distance of most major NYE events.
- Boutique hotels like The Maven, The Ramble, and The Crawford offer walkable access plus a more festive lobby atmosphere.
- Book early! NYE is one of Denver’s most popular nights of the year.
Dress Code
- Denver weather can swing from mild to icy, so bring layers even if you’re dressing up.
- Check event pages for attire guidelines like black-tie, masquerade, or disco glam.
- Comfortable shoes matter more than you think, especially if you’re bar-hopping or navigating icy sidewalks.
Safety Tips
- Stick with your group when crowds get busy, especially near midnight countdowns.
- Hydrate throughout the night. Denver’s altitude makes drinks hit a little harder.
- Be sure to alert restaurant staff if you have any allergies. Most are happy to accommodate.
Frequently Asked Questions about NYE in Denver
Where can I watch the fireworks on New Year’s Eve in Denver?
You can watch the fireworks on New Year’s Eve along the 16th Street Mall, with clear views near Denver Pavilions, the D&F Clocktower, and Skyline Park.
What time is the first fireworks show in downtown Denver?
Some shows begin around 9 PM, giving families an early celebration before the midnight finale. In some spots, the show repeats at midnight.
Are there family-friendly early celebrations in Denver on NYE?
Family-friendly early celebrations in Denver include spots like Zoo Lights, Blossoms of Light, and children’s museums offer early countdowns and kid-focused activities.
Is public transit free on New Year’s Eve in Denver?
Denver has a Zero Fare for New Year’s Eve policy. Public transit on New Year's Eve is free in Denver from evening through early morning to encourage safe travel.
What should I wear on New Year’s Eve in Denver?
What you should wear on New Year’s Eve in Denver comes down to cold-weather prep. It’s chilly! You can layer up with warm coats, insulated footwear, and something windproof for late-night celebrations.
Ring in the New Year Denver-Style
New Year’s Eve in Denver delivers an impressive mix of energy and charm. You’ll find rooftop fireworks and immersive drone shows to black-tie galas, indie concerts, and flavor-driven tasting menus.
If you’re looking to add something truly unforgettable to your celebration, consider attending one of our Cirque du Soleil shows in Denver. It’s an incredible way to kick off your New Year’s festivities.