This is the New Year's Eve New Yorkers actually recommend: no pens, no nine-hour wait, no bag search. You get a costume contest, fireworks over Central Park at the stroke of midnight, and — if you want it — a four-mile run that starts as they go off. Watching costs nothing and you can leave whenever you like.
What to expect
A party at the Bandshell from 10pm, costume parade at 11pm, fireworks at midnight from Cherry Hill, and a four-mile race starting and finishing on the 72nd Street transverse.
Good to know
- Free for spectators; runners must pre-register with NYRR
- Fireworks are launched from Cherry Hill at midnight
- The 72nd Street transverse is the start and finish — the B/C and 1/2/3 at 72nd St are closest
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Common questions
Do I have to run?
No — the event is free for spectators. Only runners need to pre-register with NYRR.
What time do the fireworks go off?
At midnight, from Cherry Hill, and they start the four-mile race.
When does it start?
10pm on December 31 with music and dancing at the Bandshell.
