For me, I would choose the 5:30pm party. The reason for this is that SO MUCH is going on after dark, and you might feel as though you’re missing out on the festivities. Additionally, many leave and move around the park after the first fireworks showing, and therefore, the party will let the burst of crowds settle down, give you some time to unwind, and still leave you time to do everything you’ll want to ring in the new year (or, technically, ring in NYE )!
Post Fireworks…..you get your spot near the front fence next to the path. They keep the path clear until just before the fireworks start and you can move up to the fence. If you choose pre fireworks, you arrive after the Post people have grabbed spots.