Everyone holds onto that NYE night that never fades with time. For a lot of people New Years Eve 2026 in Carlsbad, USA sets the stage — where unforgettable moments, picture-perfect scenes, and electric vibes collide. This guide will take you through what to see, where to go, and how to make it a night worth remembering.
Where Locals Go to Watch the NYE 2026 Fireworks in Carlsbad, USA
There’s a distinct kind of charge in the air as the last moments of December 31st draw to a close in Carlsbad, USA. The air gradually changes—small groups start forming, talk and laughter increase, and anticipation builds with every tick of the clock. What truly enhances the moment is knowing that, hidden around the city, certain areas make the experience feel even more intimate and memorable.
Long-time residents often gravitate to certain unrestricted zones that offer an clear view of the skyline. These won’t always be the most popular spots, but they’re familiar among those who have celebrated here before. These spots become crowd magnets well ahead of the countdown begins, surrounded by groups sharing laughter, tunes playing, and maybe even a sip of comfort. There’s something powerful about standing shoulder to shoulder with new people, seeing the fireworks unfold—it becomes a feeling, not just a scene.
This sky won’t wait — get the best seats for NYE 2026’s most unforgettable show. CLICK HERE
If youre curious to enjoy the celebration like someone who truly knows the city, consider signing up for a local-led experience that leads you through some of the most celebrated firework-watching locations. Whether it’s somewhere above the crowds, a secluded area, or a perfect angle on the city lights, the best way to feel the experience is by being where the real action is. A few experiences even throw in live tunes, small plates, and comfortable seating—ideal for kicking back and enjoying the New Years Eve vibe in Carlsbad, USA your own way.
What to Experience During NYE 2026 in Carlsbad, USA
New Year’s Energy in the Streets of Carlsbad, USA
As New Year’s Eve approaches, Carlsbad, USA transitions into a celebratory mood. Still corners of the city now are packed with smiling residents and intrigued tourists, eager to feel the magic of the countdown celebration. Warm lights illuminate over heritage streets, cafés pulse with life, and the eager excitement thickens as the clock ticks on. As you wander through a charming old quarter or resting on a tucked-away patio, the festive spirit is undeniably in the air—gentle yet clear.
Fun Options for Every Type of Visitor
Whatever kind of traveler you are, Carlsbad, USA serves up a balanced selection of festive options that are easy to join and likely to stay with you. Take a local tour through the city’s highlights, or wander through after-dark stalls bustling with handcrafted items, street music, and festive snacks. For those interested in substance, guided cultural walks provide a peek at the urban soul—the old fuses with the new in a meaningful pre-midnight journey. For a stress-free experience, try out a carefully organized route that preserves the wonder and skips the hassle.
Family-Friendly Options
Don’t just mark the calendar—make a moment they’ll talk about for years.
On a trip with kids? Carlsbad, USA keeps it simple to satisfy all ages without overcomplicating plans. Interactive galleries and family attractions keep their doors open during the entire festive season, making trips both fun and educational. Open spaces often host holiday setups or kid-friendly carnivals, filled with snacks, easy rides, and cheerful decor. Meanwhile, zoos and storytelling corners make delightful options for kids. A nice trip to any of these places can be followed by an early bite to eat or an evening stroll as the evening winds down.
Where to Go if You’re Celebrating as a Couple
This isn’t about going somewhere. It’s about arriving—with the right person. Unlock the Moment Here.
For those exploring together, Carlsbad, USA has no shortage of special experiences. Having a romantic meal above the city is always meaningful, but there’s something just as captivating about strolling by the river or riding an old-fashioned tram in the moonlight. Several areas host evening performances or rooftop bars—great choices to relax with a drink and wholesome company, away from the noise.
Traditions, Rituals & Hidden Stories of NYE in Carlsbad, USA
It’s more than a celebration—it’s who they are. And you can witness it up close. CLICK HERE
What truly makes Carlsbad, USA shine during the year-end celebration is its special mix of local customs and cultural quirks.
Some corners of the city light up with community-led marches featuring traditional beats and ethnic routines, while other streets ring in midnight with open-air gatherings full of joy and togetherness. One moment you’re walking by, and the next you’ll notice pop-up food stands with exclusive treats, or street performers putting on a show on the spot. If you’re in the right place at the right time, you might get your hands on a last-minute ticket to a neighborhood celebration that wasn’t in your itinerary.
Under-the-Radar Places & Tips from Locals in Carlsbad, USA
Places Locals Love (That Most Tourists Miss)
You’ll never spot
authentic nooks on curated Pinterest lists. Strike up a convo with a local where they chill after sunset, and you’ll unlock a new layer of Carlsbad, USA. Imagine a tea shop down a quiet lane serving off handwritten boards. Regular tourists walk by without noticing — and that’s why they’re still untouched.
Skip the brochures. Follow a local into the quiet corners of Carlsbad, USA.
Secret Viewpoints and Quiet Corners for NYE Magic
For those who look deeper, Carlsbad, USA keeps a few gems, where the celebration feels one-on-one. No crowd, no clock ticking, no confusion — just you and a quiet place in the city only a few people ever think to visit. People who know might tell you about a riverbend, an upper temple deck, or an unused library rooftop. They’re not listed anywhere — but you’ll feel it in your bones.
Authentic Markets and Hidden Food Stalls in Carlsbad, USA
The most flavorful bites in Carlsbad, USA lurk behind clouds of smoke and long lines. You won’t see ads, neon signs, or delivery apps — just locals who know exactly when to show up. The kind of joint where your meal is ready before you ask. And the soup tastes different in the best way every single night.
How the Real People Celebrate Midnight in Carlsbad, USA
Foreign visitors flock to the well-known countdown zones — meanwhile, residents retreat to more meaningful places. You’ll find the soul of New Year’s in Carlsbad, USA around quiet communities, neighborhood parks,
or community parks where traditions still live.
No loudspeakers or light shows — only grilled food, local rhythms, and neighbors with stories.
Indie Galleries, Micro-Theaters & Cultural Hideouts Worth Finding
Museums are quiet — but the indie circuit? It buzzes. You might unexpectedly find a late-night music session in a hidden loft, or a retro movie house showing outlawed reels from decades past. It’s the kind of culture that doesn’t care if you’re watching.
This isn’t just a museum. It’s a portal. Hit the button and dive in.
Peaceful Escapes Just Minutes from the City Buzz
The last night of the year doesn’t have to be about noise and chaos. In Carlsbad, USA, NYE magic happen where neon signs vanish and real night skies take over. Go for a stroll, rent a bike, or just drift toward the calm — you’ll be moved where it ends up.
Secrets Locals Don’t Share with Just Anyone
Every town has things the internet missed, but the best of Carlsbad, USA isn’t clickable. They’re passed between neighbors, offered to those who ask kindly. They’ll tell you where to stand to hear echoing fireworks, or where the lanterns rise first. No blog post can capture it, but the streets may show you when you least expect.
Most Underrated Spots to Catch NYE Fireworks
Ask any local and they’ll avoid the usual places — and it’s never the official NYE spots. They’ll tell you about rooftops you’d never notice, a temple wall with no lights but perfect views, or the roof of a nearly-empty museum — none of them on the map, but perfect for New Year’s Eve 2026 in Carlsbad, USA. The only way to find them is to ask around, handed from neighbor to neighbor, so the magic stays real. No signs, no fences — just space, ready to surprise you on New Year’s Eve in Carlsbad, USA. You won’t find them on travel blogs, but when you get there, the city feels silent and stunning.
The best views are the ones nobody talks about — start your quiet countdown here.
After-Dark Adventures Straight Out of a Film
Something feels cinematic cinematic in every step through Carlsbad, USA. Dim lights flicker between brick buildings, smoke curls from street vendors, and whispers float around you. It doesn’t beg attention, yet it feels perfectly directed playing out slowly.
No tickets, no green screens — just real-life magic. Start your after-dark adventure today.
NYE Dining in Carlsbad, USA for Two… or for the Whole Family
Let’s be honest — some NYE dinners just hit different Some are about soft cheers and shared glances, others are about joyful banter over warm meals. This city knows how to do both — romantic evenings and dinners with the kids all find a table. From view-filled restaurants perfect for a quiet couple’s moment, to family joints that welcome parents with kids with generous tables, this city serves up dining memories you’ll want to savor — until dessert.
Top Romantic Places to Dine on New Year’s Eve
Some moments are built for two, and a candlelit feast is a perfect fit. In Carlsbad, USA, you’ll find high-end meals with city views alongside quiet spots for private connection.
Mark the end of the year with candlelight, and let the last meal of the year be unforgettable.
Tables fill fast — secure your skyline table while you still can.
Family-Friendly Restaurants with a Festive Touch
A few favorites in Carlsbad, USA nail the family-friendly vibe on a festive night like NYE: plenty of space, comforting food, and zero stress.Even with kids running wild or celebrating with the whole extended family, there’s a place that makes it easy. The vibe is casual, the food is friendly, and the memories are real.
Big tables fill up quickly — lock it in and create a delicious tradition.
New Year’s Eve Meals That Turn into Lifetime Memories
If “dining” to you means something beyond a fork and plate, — Carlsbad, USA has dining ideas that bend the rules. From dining on a moving boat to feasting mid-dance performance,. You’ll forget the price, but remember the moment forever.
Make this year’s countdown count. Find a dinner that makes fireworks feel secondary.
Best Places to Dine with a Fireworks View This New Year’s Eve
There’s nothing quite like being under a sky lit up right at your table. Across Carlsbad, USA, some restaurants and rooftops offer meals with cinematic skylines. Position matters on NYE on the final night of the year, especially if you want a fireworks view. Lock in your table early, and you’ll toast with a skyline as your backdrop with every bite. The best view tables don’t last long — they get claimed in minutes, not hours. That’s why smart travelers book early and demand skyline seating.
Make your New Year’s meal sparkle — book a view that’s louder than champagne.
Dine by the Water: Floating NYE Spots You’ll Love
Across the world, New Year’s Eve dining has moved beyond candlelit tables — now it floats. Whether its on a yacht or beside a dock, water adds a glow that turns dinner into an event. Even without a cruise, Carlsbad, USA knows how to set a table where waves meet wonder. It’s all about what floats your fork. Pair good food with the soft rhythm of waves and the sky lit in celebration.
Pro Tips for Scoring the Ideal NYE Table in Carlsbad, USA
Booking a New Year’s Eve dinner might sound simple, but in Carlsbad, USA, timing is everything.Tables with a view, kid-friendly hours, or quiet corners for couples — they don’t last long.Don’t settle for leftovers — plan like a pro.
Book Early — Like, Really Early
Don’t wait — book that table now, especially if you want fireworks views or an intimate setting. By December, it’s almost too late, you’re playing catch-up.
Choose Your NYE Mood First
Know your vibe before searching, whether it’s an upscale skyline view, a family-style feast, or a beachside bonfire.
Don’t Be Shy, Demand That View
Make your request obvious: view, please, because not all tables are created equal. Type it in the notes.
Choose a Reservation That Matches the Countdown
Don’t just pick any time, because you don’t want dessert before fireworks, but too late and you’ll be hangry.
Understand the Refund Rules First
Know your refund terms, in case plans shift. No one wants to lose money with no meal.
Tell Them What You Can’t Eat Beforehand
Mention dietary needs upfront, because chefs need prep time, and surprises aren’t festive.
Look Sharp, Even if the Place is Chill
Put some effort into your outfit, because the vibe deserves some sparkle. You’ll feel the moment more.
Double-Check Your Booking Details
Confirm everything — twice, especially guest count. Don’t let miscommunication kill the mood.
Plan Transportation Ahead
Plan your ride in advance, because traffic gets crazy. No stress means more sparkle.
Don’t Forget the “Wow” Factor
Don’t forget the “wow” factor, whether it’s a view. NYE happens once a year — make it count.
Skip the stress, skip the guessing — lock in your perfect table now and toast the new year right.
Massive NYE Countdown Events & City Celebrations in Carlsbad, USA
At the heart of the celebration is the headline countdown concert—an electrifying public show showcasing well-known performers, mesmerizing visuals, and high-powered speakers Explosive light displays are timed to the stroke of midnight, in perfect sync with the on-stage performance and city-wide countdowns As night falls until well after midnight, the cityscape of Carlsbad, USA morph into an epic celebration zone—part rave, part tradition, driven by passion
Don’t Miss the Biggest Countdown Celebration in Carlsbad, USA
The heart of Carlsbad, USA beats loudest at one unforgettable location, and that’s the primary NYE concert zone. Each December 31st, a wave of locals and visitors gather together for a night they’ll never forget. The music lineup is stacked, with live anthems that rise with the energy of the crowd. As the clock nears midnight, the stage goes full sensory overload, ushering in a fresh beginning with cheers. This isn’t just a concert—it’s a memory etched in noise and light.
Where Everyone Goes to Celebrate Together in Carlsbad, USA
On New Year’s Eve night, nothing beats the vibe than by being part of the gathering at the most iconic celebration zones. Open plazas, downtown streets, and waterfront parks light up as the core of the NYE madness, where masses stand packed together for an unforgettable citywide moment. It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s beautiful in its chaos.
Before you choose where to go, check out the best places to join the countdown crowd.
No-Ticket Needed: Enjoy Live Music & Light Shows Across the City
Big celebrations don’t always come with a price tag—especially in Carlsbad, USA. Dozens of open-air concerts emerge across the city, featuring a mix of live music and festive talent. You can just follow the sound and lights, and stumble into something unforgettable. Everything glows in sync in LED-mapped art displays, making every corner a surprise show.
Don’t miss the city’s free stages and light displays—check the full guide.
Free & Electric: Places That Buzz Without the Price Tag
You don’t need a wristband or VIP pass to get swept up in the NYE energy. From neighborhood squares and wide-open promenades, you’ll find spots where the energy is high and the views are even better. These places are favorites among locals, where you’re free to just *feel* the city come alive. So if youre traveling on a budget, this list will be your golden map.
Explore the real-deal crowd zones that don’t charge a dime but deliver big.
Hotel Guide: Where to Stay in Carlsbad, USA During New Year’s Eve
It’s hard to forget for most NYE guests last year’s New Year’s Eve in Carlsbad, USA was choosing the right hotel. The energy was wild, but a hotel just around the corner made it feel like home.
💥 Don’t risk sold-out hotels— Book your NYE stay now while deals last.
Where to Stay in Carlsbad, USA to Be Near the Countdown Action
Picking the right area to stay in Carlsbad, USA can strongly impact your year-end celebration plan. Some areas are just close enough from key countdown locations and fireworks spots. Helping you smooth to get around, celebrate, and get back with ease.
Plenty of NYE-goers who found a place just a few minutes from the main square in Carlsbad, USA say it enhanced their entire NYE experience. Dodging the taxi chaos and staying within walking distance let many experience the night smoothly. That convenience really makes a big impact for those celebrating the New Year.
✨ Proximity is everything on New Year’s Eve— grab your perfect stay before it’s gone.
Rooms in the top NYE areas of Carlsbad, USA are snapped up quickly. People want to be within walking distance the fireworks, countdown concerts, and crowd zones. So your top strategy is to reserve ahead of time and be nearby.
Stay Above the Crowd: Rooftop Hotel Recommendations for NYE in Carlsbad, USA
Stays with skyline-facing terraces and panoramic fireworks access in Carlsbad, USA are among the most sought-after choices during New Year’s Eve. These places offer not only ideal positioning, but also wide-angle urban vistas and private terraces.
Skyline-facing suites in Carlsbad, USA get taken several days—sometimes even before December hits. Availability is tight, booking traffic spikes, and chances dry up rapidly.
🌃 Watching the fireworks from your bed? Click here to reserve top-view rooms.
NYE on a Budget: Where to Stay Near the Action in Carlsbad, USA
Not all NYE guests want to drop a fortune on luxury stays during NYE. There are several popular low-cost accommodations that keep you within walking distance of the celebrations and festivities.
The top affordable stays in Carlsbad, USA get snapped up fast during the holiday countdown. Booking early can mean the difference between having front-row access or missing the prime zones from the celebration.
🎆 Countdown in the city, sleep without the splurge — Grab your smart stay today.
Flash Deals & Special NYE Rates in Carlsbad, USA
During NYE season, places to stay in Carlsbad, USA drop limited-time discounts just for the year-end travelers. These discounts are often quietly listed in hotel listings or show up suddenly before they’re snapped up.
Exclusive year-end hotel discounts are active right now in Carlsbad, USA, but they might disappear anytime. Reserving now might be your fastest option at get a prime location without breaking your budget.
💥 Don’t miss limited NYE 2026 Hotel promos in Carlsbad, USA — Click now and unlock the savings.
Quick Tips for Booking the Right Place on the Busiest Night
Reserving a hotel for the countdown night in Carlsbad, USA differs from any usual getaway. Hotel stock shifts fast, and the prime spots sell out first.
Some strategic moves can make your New Year’s reservation much smoother and cheaper. Use private browsing, reserve ahead, and avoid weekends if you can
🎆 Before you book blind, Click here for smart NYE 2026 in Carlsbad, USA booking strategies.
Explore Carlsbad, USA with These Limited-Time NYE Deals
You don’t need to scroll endlessly to find the unforgettable NYE plan in Carlsbad, USA. Expect a collection of exclusive tours and celebration-ready deals that don’t break the bank but still bring the wow factor. From midnight boat tours to gastro explorations, Carlsbad, USA has a flavor for everyone.Picture yourself walking slowly through Carlsbad, USA on the final night of the year, guided by a private guide who knows the city’s secrets. These exclusive tours aren’t just about snapping photos — they’re about storytelling, magic, and unforgettable scenes long after midnight. Even now, a handful of these rare finds are available — but time is ticking.The countdown is on, and some of the highest-reviewed New Years Eve bookings in Carlsbad, USA are selling out fast. Some of the highly rated tours — from fireworks yachts to illuminated walking routes — are still within reach, but not for many hours. Seasoned NYE adventurers lock in early — don’t be the one regretting while others are toasting on rooftops.
Reserve your spot today — once it’s full, it’s gone.
You Can Still Snag These Top NYE Tours Today
Overwhelmed by the list? Let the stars lead the way. People can’t stop posting these unforgettable moments — from elegant meals to sunset boats. You can still snag one of these top experiences — but slots are vanishing.
Rated ★★★★★ and still available — book your spot now before it’s gone.
Best Holiday Travel Promos You Can Still Grab Today in Carlsbad, USA
Every moment you stall, one more spot in Carlsbad, USA is gone. We’ve seen limited-time offers go from bookable to gone in under a few hours. Book now or regret it tomorrow — this is the real final call.
You’ve got one chance to travel for less — Take it before it disappears.
Celebrate in Style: Fireworks & Dinner Packages
High-demand New Year’s Eve pairings in Carlsbad, USA are being reserved at record pace. You’re not just booking a meal — you’re locking in the VIP view for the countdown celebration. Don’t be the one left behind — secure your place at the table while it’s still available.
Skip the chaos, go VIP — Reserve this fireworks + dining package now.
The Hidden NYE Deals Travelers in Carlsbad, USA Overlook
The funny thing about hidden deals? They sell out more quietly than advertised ones. Spots are tight, packages don’t stay long, and prices move without notice — no push notifications, no heads-up. If one of these is still live, it’s not by accident — it’s your chance to secure something uncommon.
These are the NYE tours even locals keep quiet — See what’s still available.
How to Explore Carlsbad, USA on a Budget This New Year’s Eve
Free tours, open concerts, and cultural nights — Carlsbad, USA actually makes it easy to celebrate cheap. Most out-of-towners miss these gems, thinking affordable means less fun. Think twice before you hit checkout on that expensive dinner cruise, follow the lights — Carlsbad, USA might blow your mind.
Make your NYE unforgettable — Without draining your wallet.
Celebrate Stress-Free: All-Inclusive NYE Deals to Enjoy Carlsbad, USA Like a VIP
Ready for that stress-free, exclusive NYE celebration in Carlsbad, USA? These one-click packages give you just that. From private access to landmark locations to five-star meals and curated performances — it’s like unlocking the ultimate shortcut to a next-level NYE. No squeezing through people, no confusion, just nonstop fun from beginning to end.
Get your hands on the best all-inclusive NYE packages before they’re gone.
NYE-Only Tours You Can’t Book Any Other Time
Something truly rare about experiences that only happen on NYE. These are far from ordinary you’ll find any other day — they’re one-night-only experiences created for the NYE rush. From twilight cruises to secret rooftop performances, these limited experiences turn Carlsbad, USA into a New Year wonderland. Let it pass, and you’ll have to count down again next year.
This isn’t coming back next year — grab your NYE pass now.
Explore the vibrant cultural side of New Year’s Eve 2026 in Carlsbad, USA
As the final day of the year unfolds in Carlsbad, USA, the city becomes a celebration canvas—each block, plaza, and hidden alley humming with anticipation. The official NYE countdown spot is where the crowds gather as the final seconds arrive, often paired with brilliant light shows and big-name music acts. But beyond the mainstream glamour, there’s an deeper layer of celebration—traditional displays, age-old local rituals, and street pageants that blend old customs with new-year energy.
See why NYE 2026 in Carlsbad, USA hits differently — click to uncover
What makes New Year’s Eve in Carlsbad, USA especially unique is the variety of cultural events—from eccentric local festivals and festive street food lanes, to free events that pull in massive crowds without a paid entry. In some areas, full blocks transform into community party hubs, with artisan booths, culinary tents, interactive workshops, and pop-up performances that feel more like a celebration of identity than just a countdown party. If you stumble upon a shadow puppet stage or a light-up celebration, you’ve likely landed in the middle of a NYE twist festival—part tradition, part chaos, all magic.
Whether youre exploring alone, with loved ones, or on a couples getaway, there’s a perfect vibe for every kind of celebration in Carlsbad, USA. Child-friendly NYE parties often feature daylight celebrations, child-appropriate light shows, and cultural storytelling events that entertain and educate. Meanwhile, neighborhoods unite at open-air venues, community halls, or hidden shrines for more intimate private shows, where lanterns float skyward after midnight and drums echo into the early hours. And if youre not ready to call it a night, hang on—some of the most authentic moments happen long after the fireworks fade.
Getting to Carlsbad, USA: Transport Tips for NYE 2026
Getting to Carlsbad, USA is usually simple, with solid links by air and land from various parts of the country and beyond. A lot of people choose planes, trains, or buses to get there, depending on their starting point.
As New Year’s approaches, transit options might experience congestion, but overall, it’s still a smooth journey for most people heading in.
Looking for the best flight options to Carlsbad, USA? Check early deals before prices soar.
Plenty of options exist to reach Carlsbad, USA, offering people the freedom to choose what fits their travel style.Flights remain the most common choice for international visitors, with both overseas and local flights operating regularly. If you’re traveling from a short distance, regional coaches and rail services are solid choices.Ferries may operate in some regions, while the final segment of the trip is typically handled using local rideshare services or taxis.
Trains, buses, ferries—explore every way to reach Carlsbad, USA smoothly for NYE 2026
Traveling to Carlsbad, USA around New Year’s Eve? It’s smart to book your transportation in advance. Schedules fill up fast, and urgent reservations can be surprisingly high. Need somewhere to rest when the night ends? Don’t miss top-rated hotels within walking distance.
Answers to Common NYE 2026 Questions in Carlsbad, USA
How safe is Carlsbad, USA during the NYE 2026 celebrations?
Yes, the city usually increases public safety efforts around NYE.
How far in advance should I book a hotel for NYE 2026 in Carlsbad, USA?
Certainly, especially if you prefer lodging near major event areas.
Where do people gather to celebrate NYE in Carlsbad, USA?
Everyone often gather at open plazas or riversides to be part of the excitement.
Where do people go for a free view of the fireworks in Carlsbad, USA?
Free-access zones provide great views without any ticket needed.
Will public transport still be running on December 31?
Don’t forget to check local schedules, as some provide complimentary transport after midnight.
Can families enjoy the NYE 2026 festivities in Carlsbad, USA?
Yes, just stay within safe zones and steer clear of heavy party districts.
Do restaurants stay open late on December 31 in Carlsbad, USA?
Select dining spots arrange countdown dinners or skyline-view gatherings.
Are there non-party things to do on NYE in Carlsbad, USA?
NYE isn’t just about nightlife — cultural events are everywhere.
Do locals celebrate NYE 2026 in any special way?
Asking a local about these can be really interesting.
How early should I arrive to get a good fireworks spot?
Usually, 1–2 hours before midnight is plenty, but some spots fill faster.
When the countdown begins, ask yourself — what place will you remember most? From iconic viewpoints, Carlsbad, USA delivers a New Year’s vibe that’s hard to top. Whether you want romance, culture, or sheer excitement, this city blends it all. Don’t let this NYE be ordinary — make it count. Begin your journey with our handpicked tours for New Year’s Eve 2026 in Carlsbad, USA.
As the ball drops, you could be somewhere that makes time stand still. Turn Carlsbad, USA into your NYE chapter. Don’t wait — cheap tickets are almost gone, and hotels near the action are filling fast.