California theme parks to ring in New Year with fireworks, music

Shortly after Christmas, the same question arises every year: What are we going to do on New Year’s Eve?

Here’s what some California amusement and theme parks have planned for the last night of 2012:

Disneyland in Anaheim will stay open until 2 a.m. with live bands, DJs and midnight fireworks. Across the way, Disney California Adventure will remain open until 1 a.m. with live bands, the Mad T Party dance party and a midnight showing of the “World of Color” nighttime water spectacular.

Knott’s Berry Farm in Buena Park will stay open until 1 a.m. with live bands, DJs, a comedian, holiday shows and midnight fireworks.

Universal Studios Hollywood’s CityWalk will feature live bands and DJ music with a fireworks finale at midnight. Parking for the event costs $55. Most of the shopping mall’s clubs throw New Year’s Eve parties. The theme park closes at 9 p.m.

Kids’ New Year’s Eve at Carlsbad’s Legoland California will start the countdown in Miniland’s New York City at a family-friendly hour with a giant Lego brick drop and fireworks at 6 p.m. Live bands perform throughout the afternoon. Park closes at 7 p.m.

Six Flags Discovery Kingdom in Vallejo will stay open until midnight with a live band, dance music, holiday shows and fireworks.

And for those looking to kick it old school, there’s always dinner and dancing to live music at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk’s Cocoanut Grove ballroom.

So, what are you doing on New Year’s Eve?

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