Orlando snatches title from NYC as top New Year’s Eve party destination

From gift shopping to planning the best meals, racking your brains while planning the holidays can be tiresome. So if you’ve still got nowhere to go this New Year’s Eve, here’s the best place to celebrate the new year according to a new study: Orlando, Florida.

The Sunshine State is flipping the script and now ousting New York as the top destination for ringing in 2024. WalletHub’s latest study reveals Orlando is now the place to be instead of the usual Times Square NYE spectacle.

WalletHub used 26 metrics — entertainment, costs, safety and accessibility among them resulting to Orlando reigning supreme and dropping New York to third spot.

Orlando ranked No. 1 New Year’s Eve city in the US: Things to do to celebrate 2024 in Central Florida https://t.co/VihVWD0jwU

— FOX 35 Orlando (@fox35orlando) December 29, 2023

Why Orlando rocks

“Orlando ranks first when it comes to nightlife options and affordable restaurants rated 4.5+ stars, so you can enjoy some fun and a good meal before 2024 arrives,” said WalletHub

With Orlando having the lowest chance of rain and the longest fireworks in the US, Sunshine State officially is the go-to destination for welcoming 2024.

Meanwhile, coming in at second place is San Diego California.

What sets these two cities on top? Celebrating here is more wallet-friendly. “What stops New York from being the best city overall is the price — celebrations are a lot less affordable than in the top two cities,” said the personal finance company.

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However, president of Times Square Alliance Tom Harris doesn’t agree, calling it an “apples to oranges” comparison. Still, considering that the country’s top three cities — New York, Los Angeles and Chicago will require an average couple to shell out $872 for a New Year’s Eve bash, it’s the hefty price tag that’s keeping NYC from reclaiming the throne, confirmed WalletHub.

According to the latest US Census Bureau Data, New York is losing more residents at 101,984 as compared to other states affecting its economy with loss on annual tax income. Florida, on the other hand, has billions worth of new income.

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“The recognition as the No. 1 destination for New Year’s Eve reinforces that Orlando is an ideal location because there is something for everyone to enjoy,” said president and CEO of Visit Orlando, Casandra Matej in an interview with Fox News.

Matej also highlights Orlando’s theme parks, family-friendly destinations, concerts, block parties and dining events. Their pièce de résistance? Fireworks which are legal for consumers, giving them the chance to set up their own show.

Aside from the glitzy attraction, WalletHub also pointed out the less restrictive political air surrounding Florida. San Diego may have mild weather but Orlando tops the list with all the ticks on the boxes.