If your plan is to start the year with stories worth telling, New Years Eve 2026 in Cortland, New York, USA is your epic starting line. From bustling alleys to serene paths, this place transforms New Year’s Eve into a vibrant cultural celebration. Think warm lights, holiday melodies, and that tingle of “I’m exactly where I should be.” Feeling it? You’re in the place to be.
Underrated Spots to See the 2026 Fireworks in Cortland, New York, USA
There’s a palpable kind of energy in the air as the last moments of December 31st unfold in Cortland, New York, USA. The energy begins to evolve—small groups appear, conversations spark, and the final moments energy gathers strength. What truly defines the moment is knowing that, spread quietly around, certain areas make the experience feel even more deeply felt and memorable.
Seasoned NYE-goers tend to gather in familiar open spaces where the view of the night sky is wide and uninterrupted. These won’t always be the most well-marked areas, but they’re familiar among those who have spent previous NYEs here. Before the final countdown, these places draw in people sharing tales, creating rhythm, and bathing in the NYE spirit together. There’s something undeniable about sharing the moment with new people, taking in the aerial show—it becomes a moment of connection, not just a visual.
This sky won’t wait — get the best seats for NYE 2026’s most unforgettable show. CLICK HERE
For a perspective only city veterans usually get, you might want to check out an experience run by insiders who know exactly where the best firework moments can be enjoyed. Whether it’s a higher point, a hidden spot, or a clear shot of the skyline, the best way to feel the experience is by being where the real action is. Some options even include extras like music, light bites, and comfortable seating—perfect for a comfort-filled New Years Eve in Cortland, New York, USA.
What to Do in Cortland, New York, USA for New Year’s Eve 2026
The Pulse of the City Leading to Midnight
While New Year’s Eve draws near, Cortland, New York, USA begins to shift into celebration mode. Once-peaceful roads buzz with locals and visitors alike, all captivated by the magnetic pull of New Year’s magic. Festive lights sparkle above cobbled alleys, cafés buzz with excitement, and that growing anticipation intensifies as the night progresses. As you wander through a charming old quarter or sipping coffee at a hidden terrace, the festive spirit is gently present and impossible to miss.
Inclusive Things to Do During NYE
This isnt just about fireworks. Its about finding your place in the moment. Tap to begin. CLICK HERE
No matter your type of trip, Cortland, New York, USAprovides a well-balanced selection of holiday-season experiences that are both easy to enjoy and worth remembering. Embark on a local tour through the city’s highlights, or get lost in after-dark stalls bustling with handcrafted items, live performances, and seasonal bites. Many visitors also appreciate cultural walking tours that weave together past, urban design, and timeless customs—perfect for absorbing the city’s identity before the New Year moment. A tailored tour or cozy excursion can be a great way to soak up the city without feeling rushed.
New Year’s Fun the Whole Family Can Enjoy
Don’t just mark the calendar—make a moment they’ll talk about for years.
Bringing the whole family? Cortland, New York, USA makes it effortless to ensure everyone’s entertained without overcomplicating plans. Interactive galleries and exhibit centers keep their doors open during the entire festive season, making trips both fun and educational. Open spaces often offer festive pop-ups or kid-friendly carnivals, filled with snacks, gentle amusements, and cheerful decor. Meanwhile, zoos and live acts make delightful options for the little ones. It’s a favorite routine for families to end the day with a relaxed dinner nearby or a light evening stroll before ending the night.
Best Things to Do for Couples
Be it your first adventure as a couple or a regular getaway, Cortland, New York, USA offers countless moments perfect for two. Dining under the stars at a rooftop spot is classic romance, yet serene riverside moments and evening streetcar trips carry a beauty all their own. Several areas feature live jazz or outdoor spaces—great choices to unwind with a cocktail and shared stories, away from the noise.
Traditions, Rituals & Hidden Stories of NYE in Cortland, New York, USA
What makes Cortland, New York, USA be different on year-end night is how it blends custom and charm into one vibrant experience.
You’ll find small-scale celebrations in various parts of the city, complete with street music and traditional moves, while adjacent zones organize late-night gatherings that bring strangers together like family in the making. While taking a walk, and the next you’ll spot temporary snack stalls with festive snacks, or street performers improvising magic on the spot. If you’re in the right place at the right time, you might end up with a spur-of-the-moment pass to a neighborhood celebration that wasn’t on your radar.
Secret Spots & Local-Only Tips for Cortland, New York, USA
Locals’ Favorite Places Tourists Overlook
You’re unlikely to discover
authentic nooks on curated Pinterest lists. Strike up a convo with a local where they escape the crowds, and you’ll discover a hidden side of Cortland, New York, USA. Envision a food stall behind old buildings where locals order without looking. Regular tourists never stop to look — and that’s exactly why they’re special.
Ready to step off the tourist trail? Join a walking tour that shows you the places only locals love.
Secret Viewpoints and Quiet Corners for NYE Magic
If you look past the obvious, there are quiet spots in Cortland, New York, USA, that turn fireworks into private magic. No people pushing, no loud cheers, no frenzy — just you and a quiet place in the city only locals whisper about. Locals might quietly mention a riverbend, a shrine platform, or a quiet floor of an old library. They’re untagged and undiscovered — but you’ll feel it in your bones.
Authentic Markets and Hidden Food Stalls in Cortland, New York, USA
The tastiest plates in Cortland, New York, USA live behind steam and the buzz of loyal regulars. No signs, no names, just flavor — just a line of hungry regulars who’ve been coming for years. Somewhere the cook nods before you speak. Each bowl shifts slightly, always delicious.
Skip the restaurant. Join the tour that takes you to places with no menu — just magic.
How the Real People Celebrate Midnight in Cortland, New York, USA
The headline-grabbing fireworks lack emotional depth. Most don’t even bother with city center plans, they gather where the food’s familiar and the faces are known. Instead of countdowns, you hear memories in melody brings back old warmth, not new noise.
Underground Art & Offbeat Museums You’ll Never See in Brochures
Big galleries stay still — but the underground scene? It shakes with life. You might walk into a after-hours improv set in an attic, or a retro movie house showing outlawed reels from a forgotten era. It’s the kind of scene that doesn’t need your validation.
This isn’t just a museum. It’s a portal. Hit the button and dive in.
Where Silence Awaits, Just Past the City Noise
New Year’s Eve doesn’t have to be about mass gatherings. In Cortland, New York, USA, some of the most magical moments happen where neon signs vanish and the stars start to appear. Go for a stroll, rent a bike, or just listen for nothing — you’ll be shocked where it leads.
The Unwritten Rules Locals Live By
You’ll never really understand Cortland, New York, USA before you follow someone raised here. Locals don’t follow maps — they trust the heartbeat of the city which tourists usually don’t see. Looking to avoid the typical path? That wisdom doesn’t come from apps — it shows up in conversation. Shared over quiet chats, hidden in the pause between directions.
Low-Key But Stunning NYE 2026 Firework Spots in Cortland, New York, USA
The magic of overlooked New Year’s Eve spots in Cortland, New York, USA is how silently they take your breath away. No sea of people, no countdown scream, just a skyline set ablaze just for you. You stand still, while the skyline pulses below, feeling oddly connected to the stillness. These corners don’t seek the spotlight — and that’s what makes them unforgettable. The loud moments fade, but the silence will stay.
Tired of the crowds? Click here to uncover Cortland, New York, USA best-kept NYE firework secrets.
Movie-Worthy Nights Locals Actually Live
This isn’t nightlife, it’s poetry for dreamers. No line, no show — just stories unfolding beneath each light. Sunlit scenes are popular, but the real glow of Cortland, New York, USA comes after dark.
Where to Enjoy Romantic & Family-Friendly NYE Dinners in Cortland, New York, USA
Not all New Year’s Eve dinners are created equal Some are about intimate clinks and deep talks, others are about chaotic giggles over plates of comfort food. Cortland, New York, USA understands both moods, whether you’re looking for romance. Whether it’s an elegant spot for two or a booth big enough for six, Cortland, New York, USA knows every table tells something delicious.
Make New Year’s Eve unforgettable — book your dinner with a view before it disappears.
NYE Dining Destinations That Set the Mood for Love
If you’re dreaming of a dinner that feels like a movie scene, Cortland, New York, USA might just have the perfect table. Whether it’s an open-air restaurant or a wine-lit room with soft tunes, this city knows how to set the mood. Book fast — the tables for two are filling fast.
Spots disappear quickly — reserve your New Year’s Eve dinner for two and end the year perfectly.
Family-Friendly Restaurants with a Festive Touch
Spending NYE at home isn’t every family’s dream — and in Cortland, New York, USA, there’s no reason to. There are tons of kid-welcoming places in the city that welcome noise, laughter, and even the occasional food fight. With vibrant interiors and fun food options, these places bring joy to the youngest diners while ensuring adults can enjoy the vibe just as much.
Big tables fill up quickly — lock it in and make this NYE dinner one to remember.
New Year’s Eve Meals That Turn into Lifetime Memories
Not all NYE meals are best enjoyed inside — in Cortland, New York, USA, some of the most unforgettable meals happen outdoors. Think fires by the waves, grilled feasts in the highlands, or forest banquets beneath the night sky. This city proves that if you’re craving something different, NYE dinner can become the highlight of your year.
Reserve a table with a view you’ll remember forever — unique NYE dining spots are selling out fast.
Where to Eat with a Front-Row Seat to the Fireworks
Absolutely nothing compares to watching fireworks explode above your dinner plate. Throughout Cortland, New York, USA, some restaurants and rooftops offer skyline views that elevate every bite. Where you sit truly counts on New Year’s Eve, especially when sparks fly. Reserve smart, and you’ll toast with a skyline as your backdrop while sipping your drink. Tables with killer views disappear quickly — they are gone before dessert menus land. The pros know to plan in advance and target tables with open-sky views.
Cruise Vibes & Waterfront Dining for New Years Eve
Imagine dining while the water glimmers beside you, each wave catching reflections of fireworks above. In big cities, it’s a cruise with live jazz and champagne. Who needs a yacht when Cortland, New York, USA delivers ambiance with crashing waves and twinkling lights. What matters most isn’t the vessel, it’s the view.
Don’t miss your chance to dine over water while fireworks light up the sky — book now.
How to Lock In the Best New Year’s Eve Dinner in Cortland, New York, USA
There’s an art to securing the perfect NYE dinner reservation in Cortland, New York, USA.Be it high-end sky lounges to cozy local gems, demand skyrockets fast.If you want the view or just great food, the trick is to act early.
Lock It Down Before December Hits
Don’t wait — book that table now, especially if you want fireworks views or an intimate setting. If you’re reading this in December, you’re already behind.
Choose Your NYE Mood First
Know your vibe before searching, whether it’s a fancy rooftop, kid-friendly vibes, or a laid-back dinner by the water.
Be Clear: I Want to See the Sky Light Up
Always ask for a fireworks view — literally, because some spots don’t mention it unless asked. Type it in the notes.
Avoid Being Early or Hangry
Don’t just pick any time, because too early and you miss the vibe, but you risk missing the main event.
Know the Fine Print Before You Commit
Read the fine print, in case weather ruins the night. Protect your wallet — and your appetite.
Good Meals Start with Good Communication
Tell them about special food needs, because good kitchens prepare early, and you deserve a worry-free plate.
Style Matters — Even by the Beach
Look sharp, even for beachside seats, because great nights start with good looks. Confidence adds flavor.
Reconfirm the Reservation Like a Pro
Double-check your reservation, especially guest count. Don’t let miscommunication kill the mood.
Secure the Way There — and Back
Lock in your transport early, because traffic gets crazy. Transport’s part of the magic too.
Make It Memorable, Not Just Edible
Add a little magic to your choice, whether it’s live music. You deserve a table worth remembering.
Skip the stress, skip the guessing — lock in your perfect table now and toast the new year right.
Where to Celebrate New Year’s Eve with Concerts & Crowds in Cortland, New York, USA
On December 31st Cortland, New York, USA becomes an open-air festival that defies comparison Main roads get shut down, concert setups rise in key gathering areas, and throngs of revelers come together for the NYE climax This is not just an event—it’s a shared experience cherished by residents and tourists alike
The Ultimate NYE Countdown Experience in Cortland, New York, USA
The heart of Cortland, New York, USA beats loudest at one unforgettable location, and that’s the primary NYE concert zone. Every year, thousands of people fill the streets for an electrifying celebration. The music lineup is stacked, with pulsing beats that build momentum until midnight. As everyone counts down together, the stage erupts in fireworks, ushering in a fresh beginning with goosebumps. This isn’t just a concert—it’s the moment everything feels alive.
Where the Crowds Gather for a Night to Remember in Cortland, New York, USA
On New Year’s Eve night, nothing beats the vibe than by standing with the masses at the city’s top countdown spots. Open plazas, downtown streets, and waterfront parks light up as the core of the celebration, where thousands gather shoulder-to-shoulder for an unforgettable citywide moment. Everyone’s voice blends into one as the final seconds echo through the streets.
No-Ticket Needed: Enjoy Live Music & Light Shows Across the City
Some of the best NYE moments in Cortland, New York, USA happen where admission is free. A string of pop-up music stages pop up in key public areas, featuring rising performers and community showcases. Even without spending a dime, you’ll get front-row vibes to fireworks and sound systems that shake the block. Everything glows in sync in laser visuals synced to music, adding extra sparkle to the streets of Cortland, New York, USA.
Here’s a list of the best free events lighting up the city on NYE.
Best Places to Feel the Energy Without Paying a Dime
You don’t need a wristband or VIP pass to get swept up in the NYE energy. From hillside parks and public bridges, you’ll find spots where the energy is high and the views are even better. These places are favorites among locals, where you can dance with strangers, cheer with the masses, or simply watch it all unfold. If you want the vibe without the price, you’re in for a priceless experience.
Check out the top free spots to catch the NYE magic without opening your wallet.
Where to Stay in Cortland, New York, USA for Fireworks, Countdown & Comfort (NYE 2026 Edition)
Many travelers still remember last year’s New Year’s Eve in Cortland, New York, USA was staying near the action. The energy was wild, but a hotel just around the corner made it all worth it.
💥 Don’t risk sold-out hotels— Book your NYE stay now while deals last.
Where to Stay in Cortland, New York, USA to Be Near the Countdown Action
Choosing the right neighborhood to stay in Cortland, New York, USA can dramatically shape your New Year’s Eve journey. Some zones are just close enough from popular countdown venues and celebration zones. That makes it smooth to reach events, celebrate, and get back with ease.
Plenty of NYE-goers who found a place just a few minutes from the central hub in Cortland, New York, USA say it enhanced their whole NYE experience. Dodging the transport hassle and staying within walking distance helped many go through the night without stress. That easy access usually makes a big impact for people joining the countdown.
🚶 Stay within walking distance— book your hotel in the best NYE zones now.
Places to stay in the best NYE areas of Cortland, New York, USA disappear fast. Most guests want to be right by the sky display, main event stages, and city events. So your top strategy is to book early and choose a central location.
Hotels in Cortland, New York, USA That Let You Watch Fireworks from the Rooftop
Each year, tons of celebrants in Cortland, New York, USA choose hotels that let them soak in the moment without stepping outside. Watching the sky light up from a skyline-view spot feels like a bucket-list event.
Skyline-facing suites in Cortland, New York, USA book out several days—sometimes even months in advance. Room selection is shrinking, interest is massive, and offers don’t last long.
🌃 Watching the fireworks from your bed? Click here to reserve top-view rooms.
Where to Find Cheap Yet Strategic Stays for NYE in Cortland, New York, USA
Not every traveler want to splurge on five-star hotels during NYE. There are several solid-reviewed budget hotels that keep you steps away from the celebrations and festivities.
The top affordable stays in Cortland, New York, USA get taken almost instantly during the NYE season. Reserving ahead can mean the difference between getting a central spot or being stuck outside the action from the countdown.
🔥 These value hotels go fast — Secure your low-cost NYE spot before they’re gone.
Exclusive New Year’s Eve Hotel Deals You Don’t Want to Miss in Cortland, New York, USA
During NYE season, hotels in Cortland, New York, USA launch exclusive deals just for the countdown guests. These deals are often quietly listed in hotel listings or show up suddenly before they’re snapped up.
Time-sensitive New Year’s offers are active right now in Cortland, New York, USA, but they won’t last. Clicking early might be your last opportunity at being near the action without paying premium prices.
🏨 The view you want, at a price you’ll love — Claim the deal while it’s hot.
How to Lock the Best NYE in Cortland, New York, USA Stay Before Everyone Else
Savvy visitors who grab solid discounts usually act long before the holidays. Delaying your booking often means less flexibility, longer walks, or paying more.
Several quick tactics can make your hotel planning much less stressful and more efficient. Hide your search history, secure it fast, and choose weekdays if you can
🚫 Don’t make the rookie mistake — Get the booking hacks that matter.
Travel Deals & Exclusive Tours in Cortland, New York, USA
You don’t need to scroll endlessly to find the ideal NYE plan in Cortland, New York, USA. Expect a series of limited packages and seasonal specials that won’t cost a fortune but still feel premium. Whether you’re looking for harbor celebrations, culinary walks, or under-the-radar places most tourists never reach — Cortland, New York, USA has something for every taste. Visualize being exploring the mystical paths of Cortland, New York, USA with a knowledgeable host as your companion. These curated adventures aren’t just about following routes — they’re about storytelling, magic, and moments you’ll remember past the countdown. Even now, some of these top-tier experiences are available — but they won’t last. Top-rated NYE options are selling out now — and once they’re gone, they’re gone for good.
This is the ultimate moment to grab limited tour discounts before they’re fully booked — including exclusive boat countdowns, VIP walking routes, and event-only access. Smart travelers don’t wait around — don’t be the one left behind while others are dancing under fireworks.
Still thinking about it? Book now before the best tours vanish.
Top-Rated NYE Tours You Can Still Book Today
Every moment you wait, someone else is snatching that spot you wanted. The good news? You can still grab a spot — if you click now. Click today, and you’ll be counting down 2026 from the front row.
Rated ★★★★★ and still available — book your spot now before it’s gone.
New Year’s Eve Offers You’ll Regret Skipping in Cortland, New York, USA
Why pay full price for your New Year’s Eve when discounts this crazy still are available in Cortland, New York, USA? With instant discounts on activities, event tickets, and stay packages still available, you can save without giving up comfort. Whether you’re flying solo, with friends, or loved ones — these deals can make the whole trip better.
You’ve got one chance to travel for less — Take it before it disappears.
Exclusive Packages That Include Fireworks + Dining
Why get overwhelmed over reservations and coordination when you can book one bundle deal that does the work for you? These top-tier NYE experiences are curated for travelers who want above-average value — they want the complete night, without the hassle. From rooftop champagne dinners to waterfront shows, you don’t have to lift a finger — you just enjoy the magic.
Only a few left — Lock your seat for the full NYE experience.
Hidden Tour Discounts Locals Don’t Talk About
Not all the top New Year’s Eve moments are found on the popular travel sites. These secret deals often remain unseen — no bold banners, just quiet sharing and authentic charm. If you find one of these underrated options still open, book it — it’s like landing a travel jackpot.
Want the real experience? Book like a local — go off the grid.
How to Explore Cortland, New York, USA on a Budget This New Year’s Eve
Skip the idea you must splurge to have a New Year’s Eve in Cortland, New York, USA special. Thanks to complimentary parade routes to night vendors running all night, there are so many ways to celebrate without hurting your wallet. If you look in the right places, you’ll get to options that are full of energy but wallet-safe.
Why overspend? Get the top budget-friendly spots in Cortland, New York, USA.
One Booking, Endless Fun — NYE Packages That Cover It All in Cortland, New York, USA
Craving that seamless, VIP-style NYE celebration in Cortland, New York, USA? These one-click packages nail it. From private access to iconic venues to five-star meals and curated performances — it’s like having the ultimate shortcut to a next-level NYE. Zero chaos, no last-minute planning, just nonstop fun from start to finish.
It’s all set. You just show up and celebrate — tap here to claim your spot.
One-Night-Only: Exclusive NYE Experiences You Won’t See Again
There’s a spark about activities that are exclusive on the final night of the year. These go beyond your usual picks you’ll find any other day — they’re one-night-only experiences created for the festive finale. From twilight cruises to hidden skyview shows, these limited experiences turn Cortland, New York, USA into a magical countdown hub. Skip this, and you’ll have to hope it returns next NYE.
Reserve your spot before it’s gone — this tour only runs on December 31st.
Here’s where tradition and celebration meet during NYE 2026 in Cortland, New York, USA
As the closing hours of the year unfolds in Cortland, New York, USA, the city evolves into a celebration canvas—every district, every square, and every street corner alive with excitement. The main countdown stage is where everyone flocks as midnight approaches, often paired with explosive pyrotechnics and top-billed concerts. But beyond the spectacle, there’s an more soulful layer of celebration—heritage shows, age-old local rituals, and folk parades that bring ancient traditions into the modern New Year’s spotlight.
What makes New Year’s Eve in Cortland, New York, USA especially unique is the variety of cultural events—from offbeat parades and neon-lit night markets, to open-access shows that pull in massive crowds without a need for admission. In some areas, whole districts turn into cultural playgrounds, with craft stalls, authentic street food, interactive workshops, and pop-up performances that honor cultural roots than just a date on the calendar. If you catch a glimpse of a traditional puppet show or a glow-in-the-dark parade, you’ve likely found the quirkiest corner of the city—part tradition, part chaos, all magic.
Whether youre exploring alone, with kids in tow, or on a couples getaway, there’s a perfect vibe for every kind of celebration in Cortland, New York, USA. Family-friendly festivals often feature sunset fireworks, low-noise pyros, and interactive folk tales that blend fun with meaning. Meanwhile, insiders head out at skyline spots, small temples, or even tucked-away temples for sacred ceremonies, where candle-lit wishes rise after midnight and drums echo into the early hours. And if youre chasing the after-midnight thrill, stick around—some of the unforgettable memories start after the crowd thins.
Planning a Trip to Cortland, New York, USA for NYE 2026? Here’s How to Get There
Reaching Cortland, New York, USA is usually straightforward, with solid connections by plane and ground transport from both domestic and international locations. Most visitors opt for planes, trains, or buses to reach the city, depending on where they’re coming from.
As New Year’s approaches, travel routes might experience congestion, but in general, it’s fairly manageable for most visitors.
Entering Cortland, New York, USA is possible through multiple transport options, making it convenient for both nearby and faraway guests. For long-distance trips, many go with flights that operate from major hubs to Cortland, New York, USA.On the other hand, those coming from surrounding cities often take trains or intercity buses, which are both affordable and accessible.Ferries may operate in some areas, while the final segment of the trip is typically covered by ride apps or taxis.
Trains, buses, ferries—explore every way to reach Cortland, New York, USA smoothly for NYE 2026
Traveling to Cortland, New York, USA around New Year’s Eve? Make sure to secure your transport ahead of time. Transport timetables get crowded quickly, and urgent reservations can be pretty expensive. Hoping to book something near the party zones?There are great deals if you act early.
What Visitors Are Asking About NYE in Cortland, New York, USA
Should I be concerned about safety in Cortland, New York, USA on New Year’s Eve?
Definitely, the city generally increases security precautions around the year-end festivities.
Is early hotel booking necessary for New Year’s Eve 2026 in Cortland, New York, USA?
Absolutely. That time of year is high-demand season and hotels sell out fast.
What are the main crowd spots for New Year’s Eve in Cortland, New York, USA?
Most people gather around central landmarks where the festive vibe is at its peak.
Any good locations to catch NYE fireworks for free in Cortland, New York, USA?
Residents even point to bridges or small peaks with unobstructed sights.
Will buses and subways still be running on NYE night in Cortland, New York, USA?
Be sure to check local schedules, as some might offer free rides once the new year begins.
Is it okay to bring kids to New Year’s Eve celebrations in Cortland, New York, USA?
There are always early evening events suitable for families.
Do restaurants stay open late on December 31 in Cortland, New York, USA?
Most eateries extend their hours and get fully booked weeks ahead.
What if I don’t drink or party—will I still enjoy NYE?
Absolutely. There are music shows, roadside spectacles, and nighttime displays.
Do locals celebrate NYE 2026 in any special way?
You might see coin tossing, lantern lighting, or fireworks rituals.
How long before midnight should I go to find a great spot?
If it’s a rooftop or limited-access area, plan to arrive much earlier.
As the final light of December 31 disappears, what story do you want to tell? Whether you’re chasing skyline views, cultural sparks, or a once-in-a-year kind of joy, New Year’s Eve 2026 in Cortland, New York, USA is yours to claim. This isn’t just any NYE — it’s your invitation to go beyond the usual, dance freer, and capture memories that glow into next year. We’ve rounded up the most epic NYE activities for NYE 2026 in Cortland, New York, USA — your night begins now.
Imagine this: you wake up in Cortland, New York, USA, sip something warm, and head out to welcome the last day of 2026 under a skyline that glows. Your trip doesn’t start when the fireworks go off — it starts now. Secure your hotel and choose your ride before everythings gone.