As we reflect on the year that was in 2020 and try to think of something nice to say about it, we find ourselves mostly at a loss for words.
The best we can come up with was best said by our friend George Kuharic, who started his annual column on his favorite music of the year with the following; “Two words come to mind: That sucked.”
For obvious reasons, most of the ways we typically celebrate a new year with live music, dancing, drinks, and socializing aren’t happening this year.
There are a few options, however, and we’ve started a list of what could find online in that department below.
As always, feel free to add to the list in the comments. Let’s all raise a glass and toast to what we all hope will be a much better 2021.
Stay safe, y’all.
Amazeum
How about a family-friendly New Year’s Eve Eve celebration?The Amazeum will host two sessions of their annual ‘Zing in the New Year’ event on Thursday, Dec. 31. There will be special activities for families, and each session will end with a dance party.
Sessions are set from 9-11 a.m., and 12-2 p.m.
Big Box Karaoke
Big Box Karaoke will be open to ring in the new year with private suite karaoke. They’ll also have some special sparkling junmai sake to celebrate the end of 2020.
Crystal Bridges
Crystal Bridges will be ringing in the new year at their North Forest Lights exhibition, a multi-sensory nighttime light and sound experience in the middle of the museum’s North Forest.
Ticket information is here.
George’s Majestic Lounge
George’s will be doing what they do best for New Year’s Eve. Celebrating with live music.
This year, local party dudes The Juice will be performing a free show. Music starts at around 7:30 p.m. More info.
Holidaze
Holidaze has a few days left in their holiday pop-up run at the Walton Arts Center, and they’ll be open for New Year’s Eve.
Southern Food Company
Southern Food Company will ring in the new year with a 5-course meal, featuring Cajun-inspired dishes and hand-crafted desserts. It’s $65 per person, reservation only. To reserve, call 479-313-7646.
Theo’s
Theo’s is focusing on getting the New Year off on the right foot with a New Year’s Day event. The restaurant will host a New Year’s Hangover Pop-Up from 4-10 p.m. on Jan. 1, featuring a special menu of hearty foods to soak up anything that needs soaking up from the night before.
Bordinos
Bordinos has created a special New Year’s Eve menu that will be served along side their regular menu on Thursday night, including a Creekstone Filet Entree, a Pan Seared Scallop dish, and more.
Mockingbird Kitchen
Mockingbird Kitchen is offering special meals for either dine-in or carry out for New Year’s Eve. Check out the menus here.
Music Moves
Local organization Music Moves will host a New Years Eve livestream event via social media this year featuring performances by Funk Factory and 412 West. They are also selling food and drink kits, with proceeds benefitting Single Parent Scholarship Fund of NWA. Here’s more info.
