By April S. Kelley
Prior to the pandemic, New Year’s Eve meant a night buzzing with energy and people out and about, staying up late, celebrating the end of a year and the hopeful, exciting beginning of another. This year, though, has shaped up to look a lot different than anyone ever expected. And so, too, has New Year’s Eve.
While there are fewer celebrations than normal and most will likely choose to stay home with loved ones and a bottle of champagne, here is a list of all the events happening for those who need to end this year with a bit of normalcy, while complying with all CDC-recommended safety guidelines, of course.
Don’t forget that most of the favorite local bars, restaurants and businesses will likely be open, serving curbside and limited seating inside, even if they aren’t having an official celebration.
Adult Celebrations
New Year’s Eve Party!
When: Thursday, Dec. 31, beginning at 7 p.m.
Where: Craft & Racked Wine Bar, 1400 E. Old Settlers Blvd. Suite 203, Round Rock
Join Craft & Racked Wine Bar to kiss 2020 “Goodbye (and Good Riddance)” with DJ 5-oh spinning, tons of drink specials and a champagne toast at midnight. For more info, visit https://www.craftandracked.com/.
New Year’s Eve Celebration at Rockey’s
When: Thursday, Dec. 31, beginning at 6 p.m.
Where: Rocky’s Piano Bar, 111 W. Main St., Round Rock
Ring in the New Year at Rockey’s Piano Bar, with party favors and a bottle of champagne included in the cover charge. A table for four costs $100; however, for those who choose not to make a table reservation, the cost to walk in and stand is just a $10 cover. For more info or to reserve a table, call 512-840-1302 or visit https://www.rockeysrrtx.com/.
Oasis New Year’s Eve Celebration
When: Thursday, Dec. 31, beginning at 7 p.m.
Where: The Oasis on Lake Travis, 6550 Comanche Trail, Austin
If a fancier New Year’s celebration is part of the plan, reserve a spot at The Oasis on Lake Travis. Their celebration includes an extensive buffet from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., party favors, hats, tiaras, noise makers and a complimentary champagne toast served in commemorative champagne flutes for each guest at midnight. Local band Dysfunction Junction will provide live entertainment, beginning shortly after 9 p.m. and lasting until 12:30 a.m. New Year’s Day. Table sizes range from 4-10 guests, and formal attire is encouraged. For more info, pricing and reservations, visit http://oasis-austin.com/.
NYE Surprise!
When: Thursday, Dec. 31
Where: Willard’s Brewery, located at 2400 Patterson Industrial Dr., Pflugerville
More info to be announced at http://willardsbrewery.com/.
Family-friendly celebrations
New Year Buffet
When: 5 – 9 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 31
Where: Kalahari Convention Center Hall, 3001 Kalahari Blvd., Round Rock
Ring in the New Year with an unforgettable celebration, while enjoying a buffet that includes ribs, rotisserie chicken, and other hot and cold delicacies plus an amazing dessert selection. To make a reservation, call 512-953-9565. Prices: Adult – $62.99 (13 years and older); Children – $29.99 (ages 4 to 12 years); 3 years or younger are free. Reservations are strongly recommended. For more info, visit https://www.kalahariresorts.com/texas/.
Noon Year’s Eve Party
When: 11:30 a.m. – noon, Thursday, Dec. 31
Where: Austin Aquarium, 13530 US-183 #101, Austin
Celebrate a kid-friendly New Year’s Eve at the Austin Aquarium, with a Balloon Drop when the clock strikes noon. Come enjoy all the fun of New Year’s Eve without missing bedtime. The event is free, with paid admission. Visit austinaquarium.com for tickets or more info.
New Year’s Eve Balloon Drop
When: 12 – 6 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 31
Where: Playland Skate Center, 8822 McCann Dr., Austin
Enjoy a family skate day to celebrate New Year’s Eve, with a Balloon Drop at 4 p.m. and party favors while supplies last. For more info, visit http://playlandskatecenter.net/.