Start your engines and mark your calendars—New Year’s Eve in Williams, Arizona! Kick off a year of Route 66 Centennial celebrations with a New Year’s Eve bash you won’t want to miss!
On December 31, 2025, the City of Williams invites you to usher in 2026 with a historic celebration unlike any other. As the last town bypassed by I-40, Williams proudly claims its place as the first to celebrate the 100-year anniversary of the Mother Road.
What’s in store for New Year’s Eve in Williams?
Expect vintage vibes, small-town charm, and a full-throttle evening of fun.
Debut of the First Annual Car Drop
Forget the glittery ball—Williams is dropping a classic car this New Year’s Eve! Witness the jaw-dropping spectacle as a beautifully restored 1927 Chevrolet Capitol descends in tribute to the birth year of Route 66. Suspended high above a vintage gas station setting, this gravity-defying tribute blends retro style with show-stopping theatrics. It’s bold, it’s brilliant, and it’s unlike anything you’ve ever seen on New Year’s Eve.
Exclusive Beer & Wine Festival
Sample the best of local brews and Arizona wines this New Year’s Eve while you soak in the historic scenery. Toast to the new year with fellow road warriors. From bold reds to hoppy IPAs, there’s something for every palate—and plenty of cheers to go around. Sip, savor, and celebrate under the stars in true Route 66 style.
Spectacular Fireworks
Light up the night with a dazzling fireworks display that will send 2025 off with a bang and launch 2026 in sparkling style. Watch the sky burst into color above the charming streets of Williams, echoing the energy and spirit of Route 66. It’s the perfect grand finale to a night full of celebration—and the brightest way to welcome a brand-new year.
Plan Your Getaway this New Year’s Eve in Williams
Extend your New Year’s Eve celebration into a full weekend getaway in Williams. Here are some top lodging, dining, and activity inspirations from Experience Williams:
Where to Stay
Places to stay on New Year’s Eve in Williams fill up fast, so be sure to secure your accommodations well in advance.
- Grand Canyon Railway Hotel — A historic stay right beside the depot, complete with indoor pool and easy access to Route 66
- Trailborn Grand Canyon — A fresh, modern option opening just off the highway, with live entertainment and outdoor‑centric amenities
- The Ellsworth Hotel — Centrally located on Route 66 with chic rooms, fitness center, and cozy bar
- Buffalo Pointe Inn / Canyon Country Inn — Quaint B&B choices with historic charm and private rooms
Traveling by RV? Check out the best places to hook up in town with our full guide to RV Parks in Williams, Arizona.
Also, check out the full guide on Places to Stay in Williams.
Where to Eat
As Williams gears up for its New Year’s Eve bash, food lovers can choose from an irresistible lineup of restaurants—from wood‑fired pizzas to hearty country comfort foods—making the evening as much a culinary celebration as a countdown to midnight.
- Authentic Mexican Cuisine — From sizzling fajitas to freshly made salsas, Williams offers a range of delicious options such as El Corral, Obregon City Tacos, and Nany’s Tacos.
- Steakhouse Scene — Enjoy local favorites like The Rodeo Steak House or Miss Kitty’s Steak House for hearty meals
Discover all the top dining spots in Williams
Attractions & Activities
Known as the “Gateway to the Grand Canyon,” Williams is more than just a stop on historic Route 66—it’s a destination filled with charm, adventure, and year-round excitement. From watching grizzly bears at Bearizona to riding the vintage rails of the Grand Canyon Railway, this small town packs in big experiences. Whether you’re exploring scenic trails, strolling through the lively downtown, or visiting the historic museums, Williams offers something for every kind of traveler.
- Bearizona Wildlife Park — Drive through or walk among North American wildlife, plus a restaurant and gift shop
- Canyon Coaster Adventure Park — Ride the first mountain coaster in Arizona and enjoy tubing fun
- Grand Canyon Railway — Hop aboard for an unforgettable ride straight to the Grand Canyon
For a broader list of things to do in Williams, explore 66 Things to Do on Route 66 in Williams and Other Vacation Ideas. Stroll the neon-lined streets filled with vintage boutiques, art galleries, and nostalgic snack spots.
New Year’s Eve—It’s the Start of a Yearlong Celebration
This is more than a party—it’s a tribute to a century of road trips, roadside diners, and the unshakable spirit of Route 66. And this New Year’s Eve celebration is just the beginning of what promises to be a legendary year in Williams. Throughout 2026, the town will host a lineup of special events, exhibitions, and nostalgic experiences honoring 100 years of the Mother Road. So come for the car drop, the fireworks, and the cheers—and keep your eyes on the road ahead.
Join Us in the Heart of Arizona
Don’t miss this unforgettable celebration in Williams, where history, community, and adventure come together. Let’s light up the night, honor the past, and cruise into the future—Route 66 style.
