by Vermont offers a cozy and festive way to celebrate New Year’s Eve 2025, with fireworks shows, community celebrations, and winter events across the state. Whether you prefer a family-friendly early evening display, a scenic alpine celebration, or a classic midnight fireworks show, here’s your guide to the best New Year’s Eve fireworks in Vermont on December 31, 2025, along with approximate timings and key details to help you plan an unforgettable night.
Burlington – Waterfront Fireworks
In Burlington, New Year’s Eve brings a beloved community fireworks display over Lake Champlain. This scenic show typically lights up the waterfront at midnight, welcoming 2026 with reflections over the water and views of the Adirondacks in the distance. Attendees gather along the Burlington Waterfront Park and nearby streets to enjoy the show. Because this is one of the state’s largest New Year’s Eve events, arriving early in the evening to secure a good vantage point is recommended, especially in chilly winter weather.
Stowe – Mountain Resort Fireworks
In Stowe, ski resorts and mountain lodges often host New Year’s Eve fireworks displays that take advantage of the region’s alpine setting. While exact times vary by resort, many schedule fireworks around 9:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. to allow families and visitors to enjoy an early evening celebration before midnight. These fireworks are often synchronized with torchlight parades, live music, and ski festivals, making Stowe a festive choice for snow lovers and visitors looking to combine winter sports with bright lights in the sky.
Killington – Ski Area Celebration
Killington Resort is known for its vibrant New Year’s Eve festivities including fireworks over the ski slopes. The resort’s fireworks display is typically scheduled around 9:00 p.m., creating an early night show that families and groups can enjoy before later parties and countdown events. The slopeside display is often paired with music, food vendors, and special winter activities throughout the evening.
Manchester – Community Fireworks
In the town of Manchester, community festivities often include a local New Year’s Eve fireworks display that takes place in the early evening around 8:00 p.m. This timing makes the event ideal for families and those who want to enjoy fireworks before late-night celebrations. Local parks, gathering spaces, and downtown areas provide relaxed viewing spots for attendees.
Woodstock – Village Celebration and Fireworks
Woodstock, known for its picturesque village green and historic charm, hosts a friendly New Year’s Eve celebration that culminates in a fireworks show at approximately 9:00 p.m. The event is typically part of evening entertainment that includes music, food, and community gatherings that bring residents and visitors together before midnight.
Montpelier – Capital City Fireworks
In Montpelier, Vermont’s capital city, New Year’s Eve celebrations include fireworks that usually begin at midnight near a central community location. Residents and visitors enjoy the display as part of downtown festivities, with nearby local restaurants and venues offering meals and gatherings leading up to the countdown.
Additional Winter Event Options
Several other ski areas and towns host winter events or themed celebrations that may include fireworks or indoor light displays as part of their New Year’s Eve festivities. These often include:
- Jay Peak: Winter festival activities with potential nighttime light shows (time varies).
- Stratton Mountain: Early evening entertainment and fireworks near the lodge areas.
- Mad River Glen: Holiday celebrations that may feature fireworks or torchlight parades.
Because these events are organized locally, specific timings and details are usually announced closer to December 31.
Fireworks Timing Overview
Below is a simplified summary of the known New Year’s Eve fireworks timings across Vermont in 2025:
- Burlington – Waterfront Fireworks: Midnight
- Stowe – Mountain Resort Fireworks: 9:30 p.m.–10:00 p.m. (approximate)
- Killington Resort – Ski Area Fireworks: 9:00 p.m.
- Manchester – Community Fireworks: 8:00 p.m.
- Woodstock – Village Fireworks: 9:00 p.m.
- Montpelier – Capital City Fireworks: Midnight
These varied times provide options for early evening and late-night celebrations to fit your preferences.
Safety and Planning Tips for New Year’s Eve in Vermont
- Check Local Event Updates: As event schedules can change, be sure to verify fireworks times and locations closer to December 31 through official tourism or city event calendars.
- Dress for Winter Weather: Vermont winters are cold and snowy. Warm layers, insulated boots, hats, gloves, and scarves are essential for comfortable outdoor viewing.
- Arrive Early for Popular Shows: Especially in Burlington and other larger events, arrive well before showtime to secure good viewing spots and avoid crowds.
- Know Parking and Transit Options: Downtown areas may have street closures or limited parking for large events, so check transportation plans ahead of time.
- Follow Safety Guidelines: Respect designated viewing areas and event staff instructions to ensure a safe and enjoyable fireworks experience.
Conclusion
Vermont’s New Year’s Eve 2025 fireworks calendar offers a delightful range of celebrations suitable for families, couples, and visitors seeking a memorable night. From midnight fireworks over Lake Champlain in Burlington to early evening displays in Manchester and Killington, there are multiple ways to ring in 2026 with sparkle and cheer. Whether you’re enjoying snow-covered landscapes, cozy village festivities, or alpine resort celebrations, planning ahead for timing, weather, and location will help you maximize your New Year’s Eve experience in the Green Mountain State.
