I think it was mid-July 2016 when I decided I definitely did not feel like dealing with making New Year’s Eve plans. So after speaking with a college friend, I decided to tag along on her already-planned vacation to Orlando, Fla.,  for the holiday. At the very least I’d be escaping the cold of the Northeast for sunnier, warmer weather, and I’d be revisiting the Happiest Place on Earth, which is full of cherished childhood memories for me. It had been nearly a decade since my last visit.

Whether or not you’re on Team Disney, Disney World does a lot right to ensure happy, satisfied vacationers. While it can be an expensive visit, the introduction of the Magic Band streamlined the process for families. And there’s no denying the staff is always pleasant and willing to assist, even while faced with hordes of people. There is a certain magic in the air, and when they do anything, they do it well. On Dec. 30 we visited the Magic Kingdom and were treated to an early sneak peek of its New Year’s Eve fireworks, which included the 10-second countdown in number-shaped fireworks followed by a display unlike any I’d ever seen. There’s just something special about the Disney way.

The crowds were surprisingly manageable for the holidays, and we spent our days relaxing poolside before venturing to the parks at night. Disney Springs, formerly Downtown Disney, is now full of upscale shopping alongside plenty of dining and entertainment options. And with a Fast Pass system in place that can be managed through an app and the Magic Band, we barely experienced wait times. We even found ourselves stuck on the Pirates of the Caribbean ride; we had to climb from the boats, exit through the back of the ride and found free ice cream and Fast Passes waiting for us for our inconvenience.

We decided to spend New Year’s Eve in Epcot, enjoying fare and libations “around the world” at World Showcase. We snagged a table (and margaritas!) in Mexico to watch the Illuminations show, then ventured all around the countries, enjoying a stop in France for Champagne and pastries. Epcot gave free hats and noisemakers to everyone and dazzled at midnight with a fireworks display.

— Kimberly Krol, editor in chief