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What you need to know for New Year's Eve in Las Vegas

Posted at 11:17 AM, Dec 30, 2016
and last updated 2017-01-02 09:57:22-05
Technicians are working around the clock to make sure the sky lights up at midnight on New Year's Eve.
 
The show will last about eight minutes and is controlled from the Rio. Even with the power outage, the show is expected to go on.
 
You can download the music for the show on your phone. Search "Fireworks by Grucci" in the app store.

Here's a list of some of the most common questions about New Year's Eve in Las Vegas.

When will the fireworks on Las Vegas Strip start: 11:59:50
How long will the show last: 8 minutes and 11 seconds
How many fireworks: More than 80,000
Where will the fireworks be set off: Aria, Caesars Palace, MGM Grand, Planet Hollywood, Stratosphere, Treasure Island, The Venetian
Is there a theme for the show: The theme is "Vegas Rocks" and will feature songs by Lionel Richie, Emerson, Lake and Palmer, Luke Bryan, Earth, Wind & Fire, David Bowie, Clint Holmes, Prince and Celine Dion.
Who is it produced by: New York-based Fireworks by Grucci
How many people will be in town: Approximately 320,000
How many police officers will be on duty New Year's Eve: Almost all of them. The National Guard will also be stationed at the airport.
What if I see something suspicious: Call 702-828-7777
What is banned on the Las Vegas Strip: Backpacks, large bags and purses, luggage, coolers, glass bottles (6 p.m. Saturday until 6 a.m. Sunday). Masks and weapons are also banned, obviously.
What should I wear: Warm clothing and comfortable shoes
How cold will it be: Mid 40s
Will it rain: There is a very small chance of rain. Winds between 5 and 10 mph are expected.
When will the road closures begin: Approximately 4 p.m. for downtown area and 5 p.m. for Strip area. More info here.
Where should I park if I go to Strip: Try to get into a hotel garage closest to your destination. They will fill up fast though. You need to get there early. Or, choose alternative transportation.
When will Las Vegas Strip be open to foot traffic: Approximately 6:45 p.m.
Can I take a break inside of a hotel while on the Strip: Not necessarily. Many of the hotels limit access to guests on New Year's Eve.
When will roads reopen near Strip: Scheduled to reopen around 3:30 a.m.
What if I don't want to drive on NYE: All buses on all routes around the valley are free. The monorail is also great way to get around near Strip. More info here.
What if I get drunk and need a ride home: There are solutions for that too. More info here.
Will there be any DUI checkpoints: We don't know of any at this time but you know police will be watching drivers closely.
What if I don't want to go to the Las Vegas Strip: There's also a big party in Downtown Las Vegas and other parties around the valley. More info here.
Do I need tickets for downtown party: Yes, tickets are $40 plus fees.
Will there be fireworks downtown: Yes. They will be shot from the roof of The Plaza. There will also be special show on canopy above Fremont Street.
How else can I see the fireworks: Find a high point. Could be the top of a parking garage or just a neighborhood that overlooks the valley.