The countdown to 2018 is on! If you’re lucky enough to be ringing in the New Year while in Salida, you’ll have the chance to celebrate the holiday both on the slopes and in town. The New Year’s festivities and events do a wonderful job of highlighting the strong sense of community that makes Salida so special. We’ve put together a quick look at just some of the fun things you can enjoy while you’re here. Many New Year’s events are still being finalized at the time of this writing, but we’ll be sure to update this article as more details are made available. Also, just so you know, most restaurants will keep regular hours on New Year’s Eve but some dining establishments will be closed for New Year’s Day. Make sure to call ahead before you head out for a meal. Here’s to a fantastic New Year’s celebration!
New Year’s Eve
Torchlight Parade & Fireworks at Monarch Mountain
The festivities start at 3 p.m. at Elmo’s Bar in the Pioneer Room with a performance by the band Roundhouse Assembly. In addition, there will be food specials along with fan and games for the little ones. The traditional torchlight parade, with 140 torches, will light up the mountain starting at 5:30 p.m. Once the torchlight parade has finished, you’ll be treated to a beautiful fireworks show to wrap up the New Year’s festivities.
Wood’s High Mountain Distillery
Wood’s High Mountain Distillery will be hosting Pint & a Half for their New Year’s Eve, East Coast Style celebration. The music begins at 7 p.m. and the festivities last until 10 p.m. Duke and Tami Sheppard, the members of Pint & a Half, bring a rich voice and engaging rhythm to their alternative country/Americana/roots style of music. Their performance is sure to bring a lively and celebratory mood to the room. While you’re there, you’ll have the opportunity to taste some of the distillery’s craft spirits along with their custom cocktails.
Victoria Bar
You’ll also be able to find live music at Victoria Bar on New Year’s Eve courtesy of The Groove Farmers. The performance starts at 9 p.m. and the celebration will last until 2 a.m. The Groove Farmers are a Salida-based quartet whose sound is little bit jazz, rock, reggae, and disco. In addition to some great covers of music from five different decades, they also boast a growing list of original works. Victoria Bar is located at 143 North F Street.
New Year’s Day
New Year’s Day 5K
What better way to kick off 2018 than with some exercise? The New Year’s Day 5K is a Salida tradition with participants of all ages and ability levels. It’s a fun walk/run event where you’ll see everyone from families with their dogs to the competitive runner. You’ll even see a lot of costumed participants as awards are given for the best costumes in addition to fastest completion times. Once the race is done, you can relax and enjoy snacks, sparkling cider, and hot drinks as you mingle with the other participants.