There is nothing like "ringing in the New Year" at an Orlando theme park.  Dazzling fireworks, special stage entertainment and extended park hours make Orlando's famous theme parks a popular spot to join in the fun.

• At Epcot, a special version of “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth,” the laser-light spectacular featuring dancing flames and cascading fountains orchestrated to an original musical score, will be presented at 7:30 p.m. and 11:40 p.m.  The park’s Dec. 31 operating hours are 8 a.m. to 1 a.m.
   
• Disney’s Hollywood Studios will host “Fantasmic!,” the lavish spectacular of water animation, lasers and fireworks, at 6:30 p.m. and 8 and 10 p.m.  Revelers can “rock on” with live performances by in-park band “Mulch, Sweat and Shears,” plus a DJ spinning tunes at Mickey’s Sorcerer’s Hat.  A special “Lights, Camera, Happy New Year” fireworks show brings in the new year at 11:50 p.m.  The park is open from 8 a.m. until midnight on Dec. 31.

• Late-nighters can party at Magic Kingdom until the wee hours with parades and fireworks galore.  The park is aglow with “Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade” at 12 noon and 3:30 p.m., followed by the wondrous “SpectroMagic” parade at 7 p.m. and 10:30 p.m.  “Holiday Wishes” fireworks, the boldest and brightest pyrotechnics show at Disney, takes place at 8:30 p.m. capped with the grand finale “Fantasy in the Sky” fireworks at 11:50 p.m. On Dec. 31, the park is open from 8 a.m. to 2 a.m.

• Disney’s Animal Kingdom is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Dec. 31.  Guests can enjoy one of the final presentations of the romping character cavalcade “Mickey’s Jingle Jungle Parade” at 3:45 p.m.

• At SeaWorld Orlando, enjoy a musical celebration and vibrant fireworks. For those who would rather end the year with a splash, the park's attractions and thrill rides will remain open until midnight. Special entertainment from 9pm to 12:30am., featuring Michael Andrew and his 18-piece Atomic Big Band at the Bayside Stadium.

• Universal CityWalk, the Universal Studios 30-acre entertainment complex, hosts one of Orlando's hottest New Year's Eve parties. Bid farewell to 2008 with music by The Doobie Brothers. The evening event includes live entertainment in every nightlife venue and all-you-can-eat buffet with filet mignon, jumbo shrimp, desserts and more; along with a midnight champagne toast. Hats and noisemakers are included with admission. The event is from 8pm to 2am.  Advance tickets are $119.99 (plus tax) and $124.99 (plus tax) after Dec. 21. Save an additional $5 on each ticket and receive express line access when purchased with an American Express card.

• At Universal Orlando, stay up late at Universal Studios, open until 1am.  Please note: Islands of Adventure closes at 10pm.

For more information about Disney celebrations, visit Disneyworld.com or contact 407/824-4321.   For more information about SeaWorld, call 407/363-2259 or visit SeaWorld.com.  For the scoop on Universal Studios, visit UniversalOrlando.com.