As the year draws to a close, Boulder County is embracing a fresh approach to New Year’s Eve celebrations. Instead of the traditional midnight countdown, local events offer families and early risers the chance to ring in 2026 at a more reasonable hour.
Recent power outages in the area, caused by high winds and utility shutoffs, have influenced residents’ preferences, making the idea of a late-night celebration less appealing. With daylight festivities on the horizon, families can gather without the stress of staying awake until midnight.
Longmont Ice Pavilion will host its inaugural Noon Year’s Eve open skate on December 31, 2023. This event invites families to enjoy ice skating from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., culminating in a celebratory countdown at noon. Attendees can toast with sparkling cider while enjoying party favors and the opportunity to take photos to commemorate the occasion.
Joanna McClure, an administrative assistant with aquatics for the City of Longmont, expressed the intent behind this unique celebration. “We want families to come out and enjoy New Year’s Eve together,” she said. “The reality is that a lot of people are in bed well before midnight. So we thought, why not celebrate earlier?”
With this new approach, Noon Year’s Eve eliminates common challenges associated with traditional celebrations, such as finding babysitters or managing tired children. McClure noted the event’s focus on inclusivity, accommodating individuals of all ages, including seniors who may wish to join their grandchildren in the festivities.
Participants can expect a seamless experience at the skating rink, even in unseasonably warm weather. The facility has benefitted from upgrades to its frozen surfaces, ensuring that skaters can enjoy the ice regardless of external temperatures.
For those seeking a more theatrical experience, the Boulder Ensemble Theatre Company presents the annual King Penny Radio Show from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. on December 31. This event combines the charm of a 1940s radio show with live music and a countdown timed to eastern Canada, allowing for an earlier celebration while retaining a festive atmosphere.
Jess Roblee from the Boulder Ensemble Theatre Company highlighted the sense of community that such gatherings foster. “New Year’s Eve has always been about gathering,” she stated. “About people coming together in a way they have forever, to take stock of where they’ve been and to move into a new year.”
The evening will feature live music, including performances by vocalist GerRee Hinshaw and the Dave Fulker Band, adding to the nostalgic flair of the event. Attendees can enjoy a champagne toast at 9 p.m., allowing them to celebrate without the late-night rush.
In addition to these early festivities, Boulder County offers a range of New Year’s Eve events for all preferences. Families can attend the Noon Year’s Party at the Longmont Public Library, featuring games and activities from around the world.
For those looking for a lively atmosphere, various parties and performances will take place throughout Boulder, Longmont, and Lafayette. Highlights include a salsa masquerade party at Junkyard Social, a New Year’s Eve celebration at Abbott & Wallace Distilling, and a family-friendly magic show at the Dairy Arts Center.
As individuals prepare to ring in 2026, Boulder County’s celebrations provide an opportunity to embrace the spirit of togetherness without the constraints of traditional midnight events. Whether skating with loved ones or enjoying a nostalgic radio show, residents can welcome the New Year in a way that suits their lifestyles and preferences.
This shift towards earlier celebrations reflects the community’s desire for inclusivity and joy as they step into another year with hope and connection. With events catering to various tastes and schedules, Boulder County is poised for a memorable transition into 2026.
