New York: News Years Ideas That Aren't Times Square
For the first time in a long time, Mike and I will not be spending our New Years on the slopes.
Because of circumstances beyond our control and snow being in short supply these days, we thought it best to move the ski trip to later in the winter. Although we won’t be skiing, we’ll still be celebrating upstate (Beacon, NY) with friends and a variety of pets.
If you happen to be in NYC and don’t want to experience the hell that is Times Square, here are some alternatives:
Courtesy of Eventbrite
New Year's Eve Fireworks in Prospect Park
The 40th annual celebration, hosted by Prospect Park Alliance, kicks off at 10:30 p.m. with DJs and midnight fireworks.
Thousands of people show up each year, so be sure to arrive early, as it can get pretty crowded.
FREE
Courtesy of Brooklyn Cider House
Roaring 20s Cocktail Dance Party
Before you say anything, yes, I know this is a steep price. However, the ticket includes tons of free flowin’ booze and yummy finger food in a super cute venue. Plus, you get an excuse to dress like a flapper outside of Halloween.
$100
Courtesy of NYRR
NYRR Midnight Run
If one of your resolutions is to get in shape (or stay in shape) why not start the year off right with a 5k run at the stroke of midnight? The run goes through Central Park and is complete with fireworks and other crazy-ass runners like yourself.
$40
Courtesy of Eventbrite
NYE At The Williamsburg Hotel
If you want to be able to crash where you’re celebrating, then a hotel party might be the key. With vintage vibes, you’ll feel like you’re on the set of Mad Men with a bunch of hipsters.
$25
Courtesy of Bohemian Hall
Bohemian Beer Garden
If a buffet filled with beef goulash, Czech dumplings, knishes and strudels are more your bag, then head over to the Bohemian Beer garden in Astoria to ring in 2020 with a stein full of beer!
$125
There’s also a ton of concerts you can check out and low-key bars that don’t charge a cover.
If I haven’t made it clear enough, there are SO many other things to do in New York besides standing in Times Square for hours on end waiting for a ball to drop. But hey, if that’s your jam, then I wish you the best of luck (and a clean diaper)!
Happy 2020!
-Jen
