Well, for myself, that has no desire to meet bloggers, I would pick the second party since the first will sell out super fast and bloggers doing their thing would most likely make the food lines super long since many want to document the party only treats. Probably LOTS more recording devices during the parade and fireworks too.
For you, if you really want to see the bloggers, I think the first party would be fine. Since all parties are selling out in recent years anyways, there won't be a crowd difference. Though, remember, there isn't a lot of time during the party and the bloggers will be very focused on obtaining their content, basically it's a work night for them and they may not have much time to visit with fans (as opposed to running into them on any other random/non-special day).
Edited to add about food: I usually eat at Cosmic Ray's or Pecos Bill, both are usually open the duration of the parties (or the majority of the time span of the party). Last year both had fun party only food that I wanted to try.
I think that's a good plan, to fill up in the afternoon before the party. I usually have a late breakfast and eat at the party with early entry at 4pm. I'm all about trying lots of different specialty holiday/party treats though, so I have to make sure I have enough room in my tummy to eat (since I go Solo) lol
