Top ski resorts for New Year's Eve fireworks

With 2021 just around the corner, it’s time to start planning for New Year’s Eve. There is no better way to usher in the new year than watching awe-inspiring fireworks illuminate the night sky over a snowy mountain, followed by festive music, wintry cocktails and more. Scroll down to check out the revelry ski country has on tap for Dec. 31.

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Crested Butte, Colorado

Crested Butte’s fireworks display is complemented by a torchlight parade, which features ski and snowboard instructors descending the mountain guided only by the light of the torches they carry. The result is a stunning display of light trailing down the slopes while fireworks paint the sky. The parade and fireworks start at 5:30 p.m. and are best viewed on the deck at Butte 66. Afterward, stay put for live music and drink specials.

Where to stay: For an up-close view of the fireworks and range of luxury services and amenities, including well-appointed, spacious units, hunker down at the Lodge at Mountaineer Square.

Beaver Creek, Colorado

New Year’s Eve in Beaver Creek brings fun for the whole family starting with fireworks at 6:45 p.m., followed by an all-ages celebration. The party begins at 8 p.m. at the Powder 8 Kitchen and Tap Room with a raffle, party favors, live music, dancing, games, and two balloon drops – the first at the kid-friendly hour of 10 p.m. and the second at midnight. A portion of the proceeds benefits CASA of the Continental Divide.

Where to stay: Get first-row access to the firework display and the slopes at the Park Hyatt Beaver Creek.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Kick-off your night by watching the fireworks and torchlight parade at 6 p.m. on Apres Vous before riding the gondola up to the Gondi Gala at Couloir, Jackson Hole's on-mountain restaurant located at 9,095 feet. The party starts at 9 p.m. and includes a complimentary midnight champagne toast.

Where to stay: Enjoy a center-stage viewpoint of the fireworks from Hotel Terra Jackson Hole, and request a room with a balcony so you don't ever have to leave.

Aspen, Colorado

Aspen treats the town to a firework display over Aspen Mountain which begins at the stroke of midnight! For live music, head to the Wheeler Opera House for The Doo Wop Project. If you’re looking for a posh supper and celebration, The Little Nell Hotel has dinners at Element 47 and Ajax Tavern, plus a Winter Wonderland Bottomless Cristal New Year’s Eve party. The St. Regis Aspen Resort is hosting its annual five-course New Year's Eve dinner.

Where to stay: The Sky Hotel patio, lobby balcony or many room balconies provide the perfect place to enjoy New Year's Eve fireworks.

Where to stay: Simply stroll out to the base area or enjoy the spectacle from your balcony when staying at Capitol Peak Lodge.

Keystone, Colorado

Keystone makes New Year’s Eve a fun family affair with a host of activities starting at 4 p.m. and running until 1 a.m. From cookie decorating to a champagne toast, there is something for everyone. Fireworks start at 7 p.m., and directly following enjoy live music at the Warren Station in River Run Village and at the Adventure Center in Lakeside Village.

Where to stay: Not only is Lakeside Lodge a great spot to watch the fireworks, but it's also a great place to celebrate. Viewing parties are held every year for guests and non-guests alike.

Taos, New Mexico

Beginning at 5:30 p.m., Taos’s torchlight parade descends to the bottom of Chair One. Fireworks light up the New Mexico sky directly following the parade. Join the celebration at Martini Tree Bar with live Latin music by Radio La Chusma and a countdown to the New Year.

Where to stay: For easy access to all the New Year's Eve action, the base village-located Alpine Village Suites is the best spot in Taos.

Steamboat, Colorado

Steamboat’s New Year’s Eve festivities begin at 5:20 p.m. with fireworks and a torchlight parade.

Where to stay: One of the best vantages to take in the display is at the slopeside Sheraton Steamboat Resort’s Villa Gallery, where appetizers and drinks will be served, followed by a party until 1 a.m.

Vail, Colorado

Following tradition, Vail is hosting their annual torchlight parade and fireworks display at 6:15 p.m. The base of Golden Peak is the best place to view the on-snow parade. After the spectacle concludes, head to the top of Vail Mountain for a nightclub atmosphere featuring EC Twins, a DJ duo from England. The dance party goes on until 2 a.m.

Where to stay: The Sebastian-Vail, located in Vail Village, is a great place for families to ring in the New Year. The hotel hosts a family-friendly party with food, drinks, a DJ and children's activities and crafts.