Looking for fun this New Year’s Eve 2021? Whether you’re new to Buffalo or a longtime resident, you’ve got tons of options to celebrate. Check out this handy guide to New Year’s parties and events in Buffalo, NY.
Family-Friendly Activities With First Night
For New Year’s Eve family fun, you’ve got to check out First Night. Located one block away from the Electric Tower Ball Drop, First Night offers plenty of kid-friendly activities for your youngest family members to enjoy.
The organizers of First Night have once again packaged all the fun in virtual form for 2021/2022. You’ll want to get your hands on a Party Pack. Your local Tops Friendly Markets stores offer each Party Pack for $20, chock full of awesome goodies for a family of four to enjoy New Years’ Eve night in:
- Party hats and face paint
- Balloons with pump included
- Coloring banner with crayons
- Explore & More Activity Books
- Disco Ball lightbulb
Each Party Pack also includes Glow Sticks, juggling scarves, spin drum noisemakers, Wikki Stix, recipe cards, and much more. You can also order your Party Pack online for a limited time. And since the event is virtual, you and your family can watch a spectacular lineup of performers on the First Night website. The Party Pack was designed with interactive items in mind for a fabulous NYE home experience.
You also get a Festival of Lights carload voucher in your Party Pack. Every voucher admits one vehicle into the festival for free between December 1 and 31. You must redeem your voucher in advance, so check out additional details in the FAQ on the First Night Buffalo website. If you love fireworks, you’ll want to book for December 31 — there will be fireworks displays at the festival every half hour between 5:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.
Rusty Nickel Brewing Company New Year’s Eve Party
You’ve probably heard of the annual New Year’s Eve Party at Rusty Nickel Brewing Company in West Seneca. Partygoers enjoy outdoor seating under a covered patio area, but there are many space heaters to ensure a more comfortable experience. This event features live music plus Rusty Nickel’s selection of good eats and great brews. If you plan to go, check ahead and be sure to follow healthy, safety, and social distancing guidelines.
Electric Tower Ball Drop
No guide to New Year’s parties and events in Buffalo, NY, would be complete without the Electric Tower Ball Drop. This event took place virtually in 2020, and no plans have been announced for 2021/2022. Yet whether virtual-only or in-person festivities take place, you’ll still have options for watching the last few magical moments of 2021 as the ball makes its way down in Roosevelt Plaza. Check local news sources for more details.
Statler City Ice Ball
You may remember that the Statler City Ice Ball was canceled in 2020. There’s good news: the Ice Ball is still on for 2021/2022! The Statler has a fascinating history, originally built during the 1920s as a hotel. With its enduring Art Deco vibe, it’s the perfect spot for any Roaring Twenties party — be it 1921 or 2021.
Tickets are now available on the event’s website. You can choose to ring in the New Year in either the Statler’s Golden Ballroom or its Terrace Room, both of which offer incredible ambiance and views. You can enjoy a premium open bar, world-class food, live music, and a champagne toast. And as always, the festivities include a countdown to midnight. If you want tableside service, be sure to select the Golden Ballroom when you purchase tickets.
You’ll have to act fast if you plan to buy Ice Ball tickets. Seating is limited to 1,000 this year to avoid overcrowding. You’ll also need to bring proof of vaccination: an original physical vaccination card or an NYS Excelsior Pass. Those from outside the state can present digital proof of vaccination issued by their local government agencies. For more information, consult the Ice Ball FAQ.
New Year’s Eve at VUE Rooftop Lounge
Major movie buffs should check out the New Year’s Eve party at VUE Rooftop Lounge. Located in the Curtiss Hotel, the VUE hosts a Hollywood-themed bash complete with great food, an open bar, and a DJ to make the night complete. You must be 21+ to attend and bring proof of vaccination to attend. Tickets are available now.
New Year’s Eve at Big Ditch Brewing Company
The Big Ditch Brewing Company’s bash remains a popular option among New Year’s parties and events in Buffalo, NY. The Buffalo-area celebration has returned for 2021, complete with all the trimmings: craft beer, delicious food, a DJ, and a perfect view of the Electric Tower Ball Drop and fireworks.
The party starts at 8 p.m. and lasts until 1 a.m., during which you get access to the food and beer menu plus four drink tickets, party favors, a selfie station, and limited beer releases throughout the night. Tickets are available at the Big Ditch website now. Please note that you must bring proof of vaccination to attend.
Resurgence Brewing Company NYE Party
The NYE party at Resurgence Brewing Company is a favorite among locals and visitors. Located on Chicago Street in the Old First Ward neighborhood, the Resurgence opens its entire first floor plus its full list of beers and dinner menu to the public. There’s also a VIP room upstairs that’s available by booking tickets. You and your friends can enjoy the open bar plus hot hors d’oeuvres and a buffet with goodies like tacos, crab legs, and chicken and waffles. Discounts may be available for parties of five or more. Check the Resurgence website for details and entry requirements.
Enjoy a Happy and Safe NYE First Night in Buffalo
We hope you enjoyed this helpful guide to NYE in Buffalo. Elliot Development offers lots of great apartment, condominium, and townhome living options with access to shopping, cultural arts and museums, fine dining, and more. Find out more by filling out our convenient contact form.
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