Whether you’re happy or sad to say goodbye to 2022, it’s that time of year again for new beginnings and restarts. But before that, there’s one last opportunity for a big hurrah before we enter into the new year, and there’s a few places in Charlotte that are doing things differently. From masquerade balls to fireworks shows here are 6 ideas for what to do this New Year’s Eve in Charlotte.
1. New Year’s Masquerade Ball at Bazal Gallery
Bazal Gallery, Charlotte’s coolest night club-meets-art gallery that opened earlier this year, will be hosting their first party, a mysterious Masquerade Ball where themed attire is highly encouraged. While a few of the different tickets are sold out, check out their website for a list of ticket options that are still available, like their 4th tier general admission ticket for $100 or a VIP for 6 people at over $1,000 that comes with a premium open bar from 9-11pm among other things. The party starts at 10pm – 2am.
2. New Year’s Eve Dinner at Haymaker
One of Charlotte’s most beautiful restaurants is hosting an elegant New Year’s Eve dinner for only $95 per person. The menu will have three course menu with dessert. For the first course, choose between a beet salad, fried oysters, crab soup, or buttermilk fried quail. Second course gives you the option of Carolina Gold Fried Grits with shaved black truffle, goat cheese, wild mushrooms, and red wine saba, Red Wine Braised Pork Shank, Bluehouse Salmon, and Roasted Beef Tenderloin. For dessert, choose between Lemon Cheesecake or Chocolate Budino. Make a reservation online here.
3. New Year’s Eve 5k at the WhiteWater Center
For a unique activity you can do in the evening, head to Whitewater Center for their 5k and 5 mile run that start at 11:30pm and close at 1am. A headlamp of some sort is required with registration due to the fact that the trail is through woods and takes place at nearly midnight. On Friday at 5pm, there will be a packet pick up conference for more information.
4. Carowinds WinterFest Fireworks
Carowinds will be hosting their annual fireworks on the last day of WinterFest. The family-friendly party (largest on the state line) runs from 5pm to 12:30am. From holiday treats and drinks and a special countdown to midnight with live music (although there are early countdowns just in case of early sleepers). You can grab your tickets on their website, with tickets starting at $32.99.
5. CLT New Year’s Eve in Uptown
CLT NYE is throwing their annual party again in Uptown at Tryon Street and Levine Avenue of the Arts. Not to mention, it’s also one of the only venues hosting a fireworks show, so don’t miss it if you’re interested in seeing a show. The party kicks off at 8pm and will feature food trucks, live music from Mo’ Money, and a DJ, with the fireworks happening at midnight right after the countdown. Best of all, the event is totally free.
6. That 70s NYE Party at the Vintage Cigar Bar
For a party that’s a blast to the past, Studio 54 style, make a reservation at the Vintage Cigar Bar for a night of boogie-ing. From hors d’oeuvres to selfie stations to champagne toasts, the shindig starts at 8pm and lasts until 1am and only costs $20 for non-members (free for members). Don’t forget, you can indulge in the venues awesome selection of whisky and cigars too.