New Year's Eve Fireworks in Vail

Vail Mountain, where the fireworks are launched · Photo: 76 vortex via Google

• When: Thursday, December 31, 2026; torchlight 6:15 pm, fireworks 6:25 pm
• Where: Vail Mountain, visible from Vail Village, Lionshead and Golden Peak, Vail Village, Vail, CO 81657
• Cost: Free to watch
• Organizer: Discover Vail and the Town of Vail (Vail Apres)

Official Event Page

Vail sees in the new year early: the town's New Year's Eve celebration on Thursday, December 31, 2026, starts with the torchlight parade down Golden Peak at 6:15 pm, and the fireworks go up from Vail Mountain at 6:25 pm. The show is free, short, and part of Vail Apres, presented by Discover Vail and the Town of Vail.

The early start is what makes it work for families. Children can watch the fireworks and still be in bed at a sensible hour, and adults have the rest of the night for dinner or a party.

Where to watch

The organizers say the display is visible from every base area and across the valley floor, including Vail Village, Golden Peak, Lionshead Village and West Vail on the far side of I-70. The official event page includes a viewing map showing where the fireworks come off the mountain. Anywhere with an open view up the slopes works; you do not need to be in one spot.

Torchlight parade

Discover Vail's official event page lists the 2026 torchlight parade for 6:15 pm on Thursday, December 31, at Golden Peak, where Vail Ski and Snowboard School instructors ski down in formation carrying flares. The fireworks display follows at 6:25 pm.

Good to know

New Year's Eve is one of the busiest nights of the season. Parking structures fill early, so take the free in-town bus if you can, and reserve dinner well in advance. It will be cold after dark; dress for standing outside. For NYE dinners and lodging, see our New Year's Eve in Vail guide.

Where to stay for New Year's Eve

Staying in Vail Village or Lionshead means you can walk to the fireworks and back. Check Vail hotels for December 31 to January 1 or a longer New Year's stay, December 30 to January 2.

Details checked against the organizer's official event page on October 22, 2026. Dates and times can change; confirm with the organizer before you go.