L.A., New York, Chicago. Yes, big cities dominate New Year’s Eve celebrations. But in Arizona, we have some of the most exciting and underrated events in the country. There are plenty of local bars that host their own epic New Year’s Eve bash. These events range from a laid-back flannel party to a swanky soirée and everything in between. Grab your champagne and toast the New Year at these local bars!
Do you remember the Tempe Block Party? For years, it was the biggest and most raucous New Year’s Eve celebration in the state of Arizona. Mill Avenue turned into an all-out bacchanalia, with thousands of partygoers lining the streets and bar hopping their way to the New Year. The block party may have come and gone, but the show must go on. El Hefe has recently usurped the throne as Tempe’s party headquarters. Last year’s “Champagne Ball” was an all-out party complete with a ball drop and confetti at midnight. This year’s event promises to be just as wild. Dancing, DJ’s, and drinks. What more could you want?
Hotel Congress is famous in its own right. It’s a historic downtown Tucson hotel that’s been a local hangout since 1919. It was even the site of famous outlaw John Dillinger’s capture in 1934. The Prohibition-era hotel has another claim to fame: its New Year’s Eve party. Hotel Congress’s annual New Year’s Eve bash is Tucson’s premier party. It includes live entertainment, a bustling bar, and a midnight toast.
OK, the Saguaro isn’t technically a bar. But it’s also home to one of Arizona’s swankiest New Year’s Eve celebrations. Leaving it off this list would feel downright dirty. This ritzy Scottsdale hotel turns into Arizona’s top nightclub every Dec. 31. This year’s event promises to have well over 1,000 attendees, performances by local DJs, and a massive midnight balloon drop. This classy affair also offers VIP tables and group packages.
Talking Stick has become a big-name in the local party scene. It’s home to a casino, resort, bar, and some of the wildest pool parties this side of Las Vegas. It’s main event, however, is the NYE3 celebration. This annual New Year’s Eve party is located in three rooms, including 1,600-person ballroom. The Hollywood-themed event includes live entertainment all night. Patrons can enjoy drinks, a champagne toast, and a midnight ball drop.
Are you bummed about the Tempe Block Party? Then make a trip to Flannel Ball. Located in the Roosevelt Row Arts District, this downtown Phoenix block party is a worthy replacement to Tempe’s famous event. The flannel-themed event is also a casual alternative to swanky celebrations. This event features live music, food trucks, lawn games, and plenty of beer. There’s also a midnight piñata drop, champagne toast, and community awards.
There’s no shortage of events at Crescent Ballroom. This downtown music venue and bar consistently hosts some of the best live shows in Phoenix. New Year’s Eve is no different. They are headquarters for downtown Phoenix’s block party and concert. Live performances are scheduled on two stages both inside Crescent Ballroom and out on the street. The event also promises to have food trucks, heated tents, and plenty of drinks.
Tombstone might not be the biggest party town. But it’s undeniably Arizonan. This Western-themed town was once home to cowboys, saloons, and famous gunfights. That Wild West spirit lives on today at Big Nose Kate’s Saloon. The historic bar was once the Grand Hotel, built in 1881. Today, it’s Tombstone’s most lively bar. You can party like its 1899 at this old-school Western hangout. They have live music, party favors, and a midnight champagne toast.
Forget about 2018. You can honor your favorite decade at the Duce’s New Year’s Eve party. Partygoers are encouraged to “dress your favorite decade” for extra drink specials. You can also enjoy live music, midnight breakfast specials, and best of all, no cover charge. The Duce is also home to dynamic specialty cocktails and plenty of table games.
View this post on Instagram
You don’t have to go to the Vegas strip for an epic New Year’s Eve. Maya Day & Nightclub is the closest thing Arizona has to a Las Vegas club. This Old Town Scottsdale hotspot is known for having a strict dress code, table service, and blaring EDM music. This year’s “Star Wars” themed New Year’s bash is bound to have plenty of lights, drinks, and crowds. They’re also teaming up with neighboring bar The District for one all-out celebration.
Two words: Rooftop Party. As downtown Phoenix’s only rooftop lounge, Lustre is a popular spot come New Year’s Eve. You can sit poolside, sip drinks, and even rent a cabana while you enjoy a bird’s eye view of the city. Lustre also has live music, signature cocktails, and VIP table options available for New Year’s.