If there’s one thing we love, it’s a celebration and New Year’s Eve gives major party energy. Whether you're picturing a sparkly night out with your favorite people, a more elevated evening full of champagne and live music, a family-friendly outing earlier in the day, or something totally unique, Louisville has a little something for everyone.

Here are some NYE happenings around town this year:

NYE Live! at Fourth Street Live!

Looking for the ultimate downtown celebration? NYE Live! delivers every single year. Expect DJs, live music, multiple bars, a massive ball drop on the big screen, and a dance floor that stays packed well past midnight. If you’re in the mood for a high-energy night surrounded by thousands of new friends, this is absolutely the place to be.

Howl at the Moon Louisville

For the group that loves a good sing-along (you know who you are), Howl at the Moon is the vibe. Dueling pianos, dancing, cocktails, and a guaranteed good time. You can even upgrade to reserved seating if you want to feel a little VIP. Fourth Steet live admission is included in your ticket!

New Year’s Eve Fireworks at Kentucky Kingdom

Perfect for families or anyone wanting a magical evening without the late-night bar scene. Kentucky Kingdom is bringing the lights, festive treats, and sparkly midnight fireworks show. Cozy, wholesome, and still totally celebratory.

The Gillespie’s New Year’s Eve Party

If you love a dressed-up moment, this one’s made for you. The Gillespie’s historic ballroom + live music from The Juice Box Heroes = a very fun way to welcome 2026. Expect great photo ops, a gorgeous atmosphere, and plenty of dancing in your glitteriest outfit.

THE TAYLOR PARTY: at Mercury Ballroom

Soundtrack your night with a party made for the Swifties (and anyone up for a sparkle-filled countdown). This 18+ event invites you to dress in sequins, throwback outfits, and whatever says “my era.” Sing, dance, shine, this is a NYE that’s part concert, part celebration. Midnight hits, rhythm-filled hours, and a vibe that’s equal parts bold and playful.

New Year’s Bash on the Mary M. Miller Riverboat

A riverboat NYE celebration? Absolutely yes. Cruise along the river with drinks, live entertainment, and the perfect skyline views when the clock strikes midnight. It’s romantic, memorable, and unlike anything else in town.

South Seas Tiki Lounge

When you’d rather pretend you’re somewhere tropical than wear a winter coat. South Seas Tiki Lounge is hosting a NYE party with island vibes, tiki cocktails, and an atmosphere that feels like vacation. A fun twist on the holiday!

North of Bourbon New Year’s Celebration

For the bourbon lovers who want something a little more refined. North of Bourbon is offering an elevated way to celebrate with incredible drinks, delicious food, and a stylish vibe. Perfect for a smaller group or date night.

Noon Years at the Kentucky Science Center

Looking for something for the whole family to enjoy? Join the Kentucky Science Center for Noon Years, a lively early-evening countdown (yes, at noon!) filled with hands-on science activities, a story time, an atrium demo and that big “ball drop” at 12:00 PM. Bring the kids, bring your inner science lover, and ring in the New Year a little earlier, with fewer bedtime battles and plenty of wow-moments.

Gravely Brewing’s 80s NYE Party

Live band, local beer, and an all-out 80s theme? We’re in. Undercover is performing, and it’s the perfect excuse to break out the neon, the big hair, and your best retro dance moves.

Louisville NYE Pub Crawl

If the goal is to hop around and make it a full night of adventure, the citywide pub crawl delivers. One ticket gives you access to multiple bars, drink specials, and a very fun rotating crowd. Great for friend groups who want to keep things flexible and moving.

New Year’s Eve with Tony & The Tan Lines, DJ Samosa & DJ NOJEFF

If your NYE mood is “dance-floor + singing + cocktails,” this one’s for you. Hosted at the Mellwood Arts & Center, this two-room party features live music from Tony & The Tan Lines plus DJ-sets from DJ Samosa and DJ NOJEFF. Expect a big group, high energy, and so much fun!