There’s never a shortage of things to do on New Year’s Eve, from special events to concerts to themed dinners. The hardest part is often deciding what to do. To help you say goodbye to 2023, we’ve rounded up some local events happening throughout the New Year’s Eve weekend, including some family-friendly options.
Make Believe Midnight at Akron Children’s Museum (Dec. 29)
Kiddos can ring in 2024 a couple days early at this daytime celebration. Starting at 10 a.m., guests will count down to the new year with different activities every half hour. It all leads to the ball drop at 11:30 a.m., complete with music and dancing.
Can’t make it at 10 a.m.? You’ll have another chance to attend when the museum does it all over again at 1 p.m.
Registration is required. Tickets: $12 for children, $10 for adults. Akron Children’s Museum members receive a $2 discount per ticket.
Deck the Hall at Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens (Dec. 29-30)
More than 1 million lights adorn this 1915 Tudor revival manor, the former home of Goodyear Tire & Rubber co-founder F.A. Seiberling. Inside is just as stunning with holiday decorations throughout. This popular holiday event sells out quickly, so it’s best to act fast if you’d like to attend. Tickets: $18 to $24 for adults, $9 to $11 for youths (age 3-17).
New Years Eve Eve at Musica (Dec. 30)
Akron funk-rock outfit Robbie Allan and the Loveshack headline this pre-New Year’s Eve show. Local acts Wonderhead and Outdated View are also on the bill. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets: $12.36 presale, $15 at the door.
Dec. 31
Zoo Year’s Eve at the Akron Zoo
Kids of all ages can get in on the New Year’s Eve fun with this daytime event. Beginning at 10 a.m., join the Akron Zoo for activities, crafts and music, plus a noon ball drop. Tickets: Zoo Year’s Eve is included with general admission.
The Elf Who Knew Too Much
Spaghetti Warehouse will host a mystery dinner party with a festive spin. Turmoil is afoot at the North Pole: the reindeer are on strike, Santa is depressed, and principal elf Endorfin is out of commission. Tuck in to this curious tale – and a plate of spaghetti – at this matinee event, beginning at 1 p.m. Tickets: $51.50.
Akron Pride Festival Rainbow Ball at the Akron Civic Theatre
Ohio native and “RuPaul’s Drag Race” contestant Nina West will host the fourth annual Rainbow Ball. This inclusive event will feature performances from drag artists and national and local musicians as well as a DJ and dance party. Admission covers heavy hors d’ oeuvres, drinks, a midnight toast and swag. Tickets: $125 presale, $135 day of show.
Bling N Sing at Barmacy Bar & Grill
Enjoy karaoke, dancing, late-night tacos and a midnight toast at this Highland Square spot. Guests are encouraged to don their best “bling party outfits,” with a prize going to the best dressed.
New Year’s Eve at Square
Dance the night (and 2023) away at this popular gay club in Highland Square. The DJ will be spinning the year’s biggest hits, all leading up to a balloon drop and toast at midnight.
New Year’s Eve Celebration Featuring Tommy Lehman & Friends at BLU Jazz+
Let trumpeter Tommy Lehman play you into 2024 as you enjoy light appetizers and a midnight toast at this downtown jazz club. The music starts at 9:30 p.m., and Lehman and his band will play two sets with an intermission. Those who want to make a night of it have the option to add dinner and an overnight stay at BLU-Tique Hotel, located across the street from the jazz club. Tickets: $60 for show only; dinner/room packages start at $225.
New Year’s Eve Party at Guy’s Party Center
It may be known as a wedding venue, but Guy’s Party Center is going all out for New Year’s Eve. Tickets include a deluxe dinner buffet, late-night appetizers, drinks, music and a photo booth. Call 330-724-6373 or email info@guyspartycenter.com for reservations. Tickets: $90.
Mr. Pink at Jilly’s Music Room
Local cover band Mr. Pink will play a mix of rock ’n’ roll hits at this New Year’s Eve bash. Tickets start at $30 for entry and reserved seating. $70 tickets include entry, reserved seating, $30 food and beverage credit, party favors and a toast at midnight. $80 tickets include entry, reserved VIP seating, $30 food and beverage credit, party favors and a toast at midnight.
Khaao Macha’s NYE
Proper dress is required for this Bollywood-inspired event at this popular Indian fusion restaurant. Enjoy a DJ set, live performances and, of course, food. Tickets: $20.
