New Year’s Eve is right around the corner, do you have plans yet? Here is a list of things to do in the Brainerd and Baxter area to ring in the new year.

Kid Friendly
  • 5 & Under Noon-Years Eve at the WonderTrek Museum – This is a free event for kids 5 & Under, there will be snacks and mock-tails for the kids, in addition to some fun New Year’s Eve activities!
  • Jack’s House – Jack’s House is a bowling center with an arcade, a golf simulator and it’s own Shirley’s Classic Grille. They will be open for their normal hours and hosting open bowling all day long!
  • Kids Winter Nature Camp at Northland Arboretum – If you’re looking to get your kids outside during their winter break, consider bringing them to the Northland Arboretum. Activities will include Winter Bird watching & feeding, Snowshoeing, Winter animal tracking, Science Experiment Day, Snowflakes, and Snowman Building.
  • Sertoma Winter Wonderland – Catch the last day of this incredible drive through tour of more than 80 colorfully lighted and animated displays. Located at Northland Arboretum, tickets are available for purchase beforehand or at the door.

More Geared Towards Adults

  • Jack Pine New Year’s Eve Celebration – Happening from 5-9pm, they will be dropping the ball every hour on the hour so you can celebrate without burning the midnight oil. Enjoy festive vibes, noisemakers, balloons, and a special champagne cocktail seltzer!
  • New Year’s Eve Cocktail Party at 5Rocks Distilling – Say ‘So Long’ to 2024 with friends at 5Rocks! They will be open for business from 12-9PM but offering happy hour from 3-6PM and appetizers from 3-5PM. Enjoy craft cocktails as you make your resolutions and get ready to ring in an amazing 2025!
  • New Year’s Eve Pre-Party at The Legion – Head down to the post to start your New Year’s Eve off right. Starting with the commander’s waffle breakfast 8-12pm, Vikings vs Packers game at noon, free Tom and Jerry’s for paid up members and then Past Commanders burger bar and meat raffle during the game. Make a day out of it!
  • New Year’s Eve at The Brainerd Eagles Club – Ring in the new year at the Brainerd Eagles! Menu is prime rib, shrimp or chicken, potato, salad, dinner roll, desert & a glass of wine. Afterwards enjoy live music by Hillbilly Rock show. Dinner starts at 6pm, band plays from 8-12:30! Call or stop by the club to reserve your seat today.
  • New Year’s Eve Bash at Gather on 3 at The Woods – The Woods is hosting a New Year’s Eve Bash from 5-12pm full of good food and good times. Indulge in a Gourmet Chef Prepared 3-Course Dinner, dance the night away with live music by Duluth Transit Authority, and end the evening with a Champagne toast. Tickets are required and limited so make sure to head to their website to snag yours!

If you are staying in Baxter/Brainerd and are looking for some events happening nearby, consider these:

  • New Year’s Eve Pajama Party at Cuyuna Brewing – Ring in the New Year in your coziest, comfiest attire. Cuyuna Brewing is hosting a Pajama party from 6-10pm. There will be a complimentary popcorn bar, classic movies playing sure to transport you back in time, and great beer to tie it all in. Come as you are and toast to the New Year in total comfort!
  • New Year’s Eve at The Quarterdeck Resort – Forget resolutions—let’s talk cocktails, champagne, and the David Lee Band rocking the night away from 8:30pm – 12:30am. Ring in the New Year the Quarterdeck way—loud, proud, and with a drink in hand. Cheers!

For more happenings, be sure to check out our calendar of events. If your business is hosting an event, please let us know and we’ll add it to the calendar. We hope you enjoy your visit to Brainerd and Baxter, MN, this year!