Safely Celebrate New Year's Eve in Columbus

There's no doubt we all can't wait to say goodbye to 2020 and hello to a new year! We're hopeful 2021 will bring more positivity and safer times for everyone. While the New Year's Eve experience typically consists of big parties, lavish celebrations and lots of glass clinking, like everything else in 2020, ringing in the new year will look very different this year.

As we've seen since the onset of the pandemic in March, the Columbus community continues to rally together to offer safe and enjoyable experiences for everyone. Whether you're staying home, comfortable getting out for a bit or hosting a small gathering of friends or family, there are many options in Columbus to still have fun this New Year's Eve. From virtual board games, performances and early celebrations, to carry out and make-at-home options, we've rounded up some ways to safely celebrate the end of 2020.

Special Menus at Cameron Mitchell Restaurants

Countdown to the New Year in style with Cameron Mitchell Restaurants. Each restaurant located throughout the city will be offering special features on their New Year's Eve menus. Reservations are encouraged.

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Columbus Symphony at Home

Stay home on New Year's Eve, get comfortable and listen to the Columbus Symphony. While live performances can't happen right now, they have put together a collection of videos of Symphony performances to continue to share the music that brings the community joy.

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Scientist with gloves and tongs performing chemistry experiments for children at COSI

COSI Connect Science Activities

Have fun with the family on New Year's Eve by participating in science experiments put on my COSI. Explore their universe of science through online videos and activities that they've created and curated throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Courtyard by Marriott Columbus Downtown guest room

NYE with Courtyard Columbus/Downtown

Say goodbye to 2020 and ring in the New Year at Courtyard Columbus Downtown. Rate includes one bottle of champagne per stay and a late checkout at 1 p.m.

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New Year's Eve at Courtyard Columbus Worthington

Ring in the New Year with a special hotel rate, two champagne splits, four party hats and a pizza.

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Hocking Hills Adventures

Get out of the city for some socially-distant fun in the woods with your small group of friends or family. Rent a cabin, go on some winter hikes and you can even celebrate the new year on a train that stops at the stroke of midnight and everyone is treated to a fireworks display.

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Hofbrauhaus Columbus - German-Style

If you're comfortable going out, Hofbrauhaus Columbus is celebrating New Year's Eve Germany-Style! As the clock turns 12:00 in Munich, Germany, Hofbrauhaus will be celebrating at 6 p.m. Reservations are recommended.

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Kingmakers Virtual Board Games

Kingmakers online board game experience leaves everyone giving virtual high-fives and having fun. Each structured event is built to ensure the play experience is equitable and energized. They've also partnered with Wolf’s Ridge Brewing to add world-class brews to the mix.

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Social distanced dining and drinks at Threes Above High

NYE at Threes

Three's Above High will still have their cheap prices and debauchery, but will be celebrate with our friends in Iceland at 7 p.m. since they can't be open at midnight in Columbus. Doors open at 5 p.m.

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Couple and their daughter checking in to The Westin Great Southern hotel in downtown Columbus.

Luxurious Staycation at The Westin Columbus

Enjoy an upgraded room, complimentary champagne, sweet treats and your choice of movie rental with 1/2 off valet parking for $199 per night, plus tax. Sleep in the next morning and extend your departure time. Secure your reservation by Dec. 29, 2020 at 614-220-7025.

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Participate in family zoom streaming movies with Wexner Center for the Arts

Wexner Center for the Arts Family Film Festival

Stream movies and activities for the family and enjoy fresh and fascinating films that focus on kids’ unique interests and perspectives as well as other resources and activities—including downloadable coloring pages, a crafting video and book recommendations.

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Noon Year's Eve Storytime & Dance Party

Ring in the new year with stories, songs, and rhymes. Count down to a balloon drop at noon, then dance the afternoon away at the virtual after-party featuring your favorite tunes.

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QUEERBOMB: Queerantine Queer Year’s Eve

Two Truths is reimagining their monthly Queerbomb celebration for a safe, virtual gathering featuring carryout cocktails, pop-up performances and a live-streamed dance mix.

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CHEERS TO 2021

Cocktails to go in mason jars from Antiques on High in Columbus

Where to Get Cocktails to Go in Columbus

New Year's Eve wouldn't be complete without some beverages to cheers with into the new year. Grab to go cocktail from local Columbus businesses to celebrate.

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