This issue, our pages are full of opportunities from Manistee to Mackinaw City and all places in between to usher in 2008. Sure, it’s called “Amateur Night” in jest of those who are not professional partiers - but our readers don’t fall into that category. There are the obvious options of dinner, dancing, drinking, midnight kissing and the champagne toast. But we decided this year to also take a look at a few “not so typical” ways to celebrate the New Year.
CELEBRATE SMART First and foremost, if alcohol is going to be a part of your New Year’s Eve plans, then please be safe and smart. If you live in the Traverse City region, seek out the Celtic Bus; they will even come and pick you up from home and bring you back home after you are done partying. For this service, contact Celtic John at 231-313-1760. Regardless of where you live, plan ahead and contact the establishment to see if they or the community has a ride home program, or use a designated driver - whatever it takes so you’ll still be with us in 2008.
BE COOL IN CADILLAC A few years ago, the community of Cadillac started First Night as a way to celebrate New Year’s Eve through the arts. Built around the philosophy of creating an experience for the appreciation of the local arts, First Night organizers say that the event “cultivates a sense of community, is affordable and accessible to all, brings families of the community together, and helps with the revitalization of downtown Cadillac while fostering the public’s appreciation of the visual and performing arts.” The day is loaded with activities, starting with the annual “Click at 1:30 P.M.”—a community photo—at the Wexford County Historical Museum. The day continues with a “Word Puzzle Scramble” to coincide with First Night’s focus on “Bridging The Arts” this year. Enjoy music while searching for clues through downtown. Music featuring several local and regional performers continues into the evening. There are lots of activities for kids, too, from a petting zoo to the popular castle bounce inflatable, and opportunities to experience dog sledding. For teens, there will be a dance, rock climbing and teen-focused inflatable games. This is a true community celebration, and the good folks in Cadillac have said that everyone and anyone are welcome to participate. For additional details: www.firstnightcadillac.com.
PICK PETOSKEY FOR FUN In Petoskey, they are also focusing on an “artsy” New Year’s Eve celebration at the Crooked Tree Arts Center. They will be open from 5 – 9 p.m., offering visitors an assortment of activities. The musicians affiliated with the Blissfest Music Organization will perform. There will be “foots on” hip-hop & ballet workshops, make-and-take art projects, and family improv with the Little Traverse Civic Theatre. The evening will also include songs and storytelling with the Petoskey Public Library staff and lots of tasty treats. The price is right at $5.00 for adults and $1.00 for kids. For additional details: www.crookedtree.org
VISIT MERRY MACKINAC Okay, it may not be a tropical island, and it is not thought of as a winter destination, but Mackinac Island stays open year-round. It is very romantic and quite peaceful on the Island during the winter months - and no, you don’t have to stay in an igloo - there are places open for overnight stays. Arnold’s offers ferry service (ice permitting), or there are charter flights as well. The party at Patrick Sinclair’s Irish Pub is the place to be. Classic rockers Tricky Dickey & The Spoonmen will jam into the New Year with a champagne toast at midnight. There is no cover charge, and the pub expects more than 200 for the evening fun. If you are concerned about meals, they are open 8 a.m. to midnight year-round, and will be offering a special prime rib/lobster dinner on New Year’s Eve. For accommodations information on Mackinac Island, check out www.mackinacisland.org or call 877.847.0086.
FROM BOYNE TO TC And last, but not least, here are a few other ideas to consider: The Traverse City State Theatre will be hosting a special event and movie night, and will announce details at www.statetheatretc.org. The InsideOut Gallery in the Warehouse District of Traverse City is planning a mock Times Square celebration. Detroit R&B artist T-Money Green will bring a “funkfilled” New Year’s party to Streeters in Traverse City. And if skiing is your thing, try Boyne Highlands, followed by the ever-popular Zoo Bar Party. Above all, have a great and safe Happy New Year.
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