Most people are too wrapped up this time of year preparing for Christmas to think about New Year’s Eve planning. The hottest shows and clubs in town sell out fast and early so don’t be left scrambling for post-holiday plans. We’ve compiled a list of the best Edmonton has to offer on the biggest celebration night of the year, from the hottest parties to the best of family friendly events.
An Edmonton Classic. Family activities are offered throughout Churchill Square and City Hall all evening. From face painting, crafts, magicians, and face painting, to ice skating, bannock making, and fireworks this is a kid-friendly, non-alcoholic event perfect for keeping the evening exciting but still low key. Indoor festivities begin at 7pm, outdoor entertainment begins at 9:15, and the firework show is at midnight.
*The city of Edmonton will be offer free public transportation on December 31, 2015 starting at 6pm until 2 a.m.
2. NYE with Kenny Shields and Streetheart
For those feeling a little bit rock ‘n roll this holiday season, Century Casino is hosting Canadian classic rockers Streeheart, featuring Kenny Sheilds. Doors at 8:30 and a show at 9:15 leaves plenty of time to keep the party going for the NYE countdown or to try your luck at the casino’s extensive table and VLT gaming room.
Tickets are $79.95 through the casino, dinner and show packages are available for an additional fee.
3. Gatsby Gala at the Fairmont Hotel MacDonald.
The upscale party goer will enjoy this formal affair at the classiest of all establishments, the Empire Ballroom of the Fairmont Hotel MacDonald. Dress in Gatsby inspired period wear, at this extravagant 5 course dinner and live big band dance gala. Program runs from 6pm to 1am, including cocktails, dinner service, entertainment, NYE midnight countdown, and bar service.
Union Hall hosts a wild night of classic music videos, counting down to a midnight champagne toasts and double DJ’s to keep the party going. Dance the night away with DJ Grizz and DJ Tyco, while watching all your favourite video blasts from the past. Tickets start at $19.90 for general admission but there are multiple VIP options and prepaid bottle services packages for you and the whole crew.
Another great kid friendly event to celebrate the night with the whole family. From 4pm to 8pm you can enjoy free winter wonderland festivities and still be home for bedtime. Activities include crafts, a bonfire, face painting, public skating, and indoor snowboardinga at Broadmoor Lake Park, Community Centre, and Festival Place. Strathcona County transit plans to offer free park and ride services running during the event hours.
For the 16th year running, the Delta Edmonton South is hosting a spicy night of dancing, drinks, and dining not to be missed. Voted Western Canada’s best Latin New Years, you can salsa along to Giro Lopez and his band, supported by reggae artist Jmiel. Evening includes entertainment, a four course meal, and midnight countdown. Venue opens at 5:45, with dinner at 7:45. There are a variety of ticket pricing options to suit your party’s needs.
If you’re looking for a wild night out on the town, hop on the night’s most popular party bus to hit all the hottest clubs in town. This event was Club Zone’s 2015 fastest NYE sell out event. Crawl pass includes admission to 4 downtown night clubs, party bus access, no line-no cover privileges, official mardi gras bead necklaces. Check in is 6-7pm and then the party gets rolling. Passes start at $25.
In addition to Latin New Year’s Eve, Delta Edmonton South is ALSO hosting Jazz NYE if that kind of thing is more your style. Get into the swing of 2016 with the Swing Kings featuring Sandro Dominelli & Shelley Jones. Dinner is included in your ticket package, as well as a view of the fireworks downtown. The evening begins at 5:30, attiring is formal.
Victory Life Church of St. Albert is hosting an extravagent firework display by industry heavy hitters Thunder F/X Fireworks. The display begins at 8:30 sharp in Mission Park and family members of all ages are welcome to attend the free event.
Here is a video of a previous fireworks display
10. World Waterpark’s Family Beach Ball
Why freeze in outdoor downtown Edmonton when you can lounge on the balmy ‘beaches’ of West Edmonton Malls World Waterpark. Boasting an ambient 31 degree temperature, this may be your most relaxing NYE yet. Wave pool and slides will be open all evening, along with a spectacular indoor firework display. A family of four pass is $99 for the event and it runs from 6pm to midnight.
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