With 2025 just around the corner, communities across the globe are gearing up to celebrate the New Year with vibrant events and festivities. From family-friendly activities to electrifying parties, there’s something for everyone as we bid adieu to 2024.
Families already feeling the crunch of the midnight countdown can opt for earlier celebrations. The Lewis & Clark Library will host its annual Noon Year’s Eve Party on December 31, transforming the traditional countdown. “We’re offering an alternative celebration for the whole community,” said Molly Hudson, the event organizer and librarian. Scheduled from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m., the event encourages families to join together for snacks, crafts, and even a balloon drop at, you guessed it, noon!
For those seeking to ring in 2025 with global flair, ExplorationWorks promises excitement with its around-the-world New Year celebration. Running from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., families can engage with hands-on activities and enjoy hourly ball drops synchronized with various countries’ midnight celebrations. “It’s a chance for everyone—kids and adults alike—to celebrate together,” said Kari Gagner, deputy director for ExplorationWorks, highlighting the inclusive nature of the event.
If you prefer to embrace the outdoors, don’t miss the Great Divide Ski Area’s 34th Annual New Year’s Eve Torchlight Parade. It’s one of Helena’s cherished traditions. After the final chair lift of the day at 6 p.m., participants will light flares and ski down the mountain as spectators watch from below. “It’s great for the whole family,” shared Betsy Moran, part-owner of Great Divide, who noted about 200 people typically come to watch the spectacle followed by fireworks.
For those ready to toast the New Year, local breweries have their own special plans. Blackfoot River Brewing will celebrate not only the New Year but also its 26th anniversary with $2 beers and delicious Cuban cuisine from the Habana 406 food truck. Business manager Bethany Flint remarked, “The Blackfoot is a place where we are celebrating friendship and community every day.” Meanwhile, Lewis & Clark Brewing Co. invites guests to enjoy live music and complimentary champagne as they ring the New Year, echoing the festive cheer with the sentiment, “We love coming together to ring in the New Year together,” by marketing director Heidi O'Brien.
Those seeking something with more flair can dress to impress at the Windbag Saloon’s Red Carpet New Year’s Eve party. Kicking off at 10 p.m., guests are encouraged to don their best black-tie attire or emulate their favorite celebrity. With prizes for the best costumes and music from the Yardbird Quartet, this event promises to be both classy and fun. Dallas Redden, one of the managers, quipped, “New Year’s is always a hoot here.”
If dancing is on your agenda, check out the 3rd Annual New Year’s Eve Ballroom Bash at the Helena Civic Center, starting at 7 p.m. Attendees can revel with live music from the Trust Fund Hippies, where proceeds benefit the United Way. “We want to support our community and have fun at the same time,” the organizers shared.
For those willing to push the boundaries of traditional celebration, Bumblebee Aerial Fitness offers “Vices: A New Year’s Eve Experience,” featuring aerialists and performers as part of its 18-and-older extravaganza. “We enjoy offering a performance to Helena,” said Sabrina Malecek, owner of Bumblebee, indicating there’s no shortage of creativity to welcome 2025.
Beyond local celebrations, wanderlust beckons with the holiday, inviting travelers to explore iconic destinations welcoming the New Year with vibrant festivities. New York City boasts the iconic Times Square ball drop, promising grand festivities under dazzling lights. Sydney's famed fireworks over the Opera House lure visitors to experience summer warmth alongside breathtaking pyrotechnics.
Tokyo melds tradition with modernity, as its New Year festivities abound with temple visits, vibrant countdown parties, and stunning fireworks. For those seeking beachside revelry, Rio de Janeiro's Copacabana hosts one of the globe's largest New Year gatherings, where millions dress in white and celebrate with live music.
European cities aren’t to be outdone: Edinburgh's Hogmanay festival promises lively street parties, Berlin's Brandenburg Gate becomes the epicenter of celebration, and Paris dazzles with lights and glamour along the Champs-Élysées. The Burj Khalifa’s fireworks display will bring Dubai’s opulence to life, showcasing extravagance grounded by entertainment and festivity.
Finally, as you prepare your own celebrations, don't forget to stock up on party supplies! Decorations can transform your space and add excitement to your New Year’s gathering. From stunning entrance arches embellished with balloons to festive plates and drinkware, simply tapping online resources can help you get everything delivered right to your door. Remember, creating the right atmosphere sets the tone for welcoming the new year with joy and celebration.
So as 2024 draws to a close, whether you're elbow-deep in party prep or booking flights to far-off locales, there’s no denying the electrifying energy of New Year’s Eve. Here’s to embracing new beginnings and ringing in 2025 with hope, joy, and unforgettable memories.
