New Year’s Eve is just around the corner and Ithaca is alive with anticipation. Whether you’re hoping for a lively party, a romantic evening out, or a more intimate start to the year, New Year’s Eve in Ithaca has it all!
There’s really no bad time to visit the Finger Lakes region but the holiday season has its own special kind of warmth. Downtown streets glow with twinkling lights and storefronts dress up their windows in festive displays. As December unfolds, area event calendars fill with concerts, markets, performances, and other seasonal gatherings. Best of all, people are warmed by the holiday spirit and the friendly cheer is contagious.
The convenient location of Classic Country Vacation Homes has you surrounded by things to do and see. Go ahead and explore all that the Finger Lakes have to offer, knowing the comforts of your Finger Lakes vacation rental are just a hop, skip, and a jump away!
New Year’s Eve in Ithaca 2025
One of the most beloved places to celebrate in Ithaca is the New Year’s Gala at Argos Inn. This historic, 1800’s property offers an unforgettable backdrop for your New Year’s Eve festivities. Guests enjoy an evening of live music, DJs, dancing, fire pits, and craft cocktails at Bar Argos and the Argos Warehouse.
Kindred Fare, an eatery inspired by farmhouse cooking, celebrates its 10th anniversary on New Year’s Eve with a special menu for this two-in-one celebration.
The New Year’s Eve Bash at Longshots Sports Bar & Grill includes a DJ, champagne toast at midnight, and no cover charge. Even better, overnight parking is available if you need to leave your car and catch a ride.
Bristol Mountain Ski Resort offers one of the most active ways to celebrate New Year’s Eve. Spend the day skiing at one of the Finger Lake’s premier ski resorts, then enjoy a NYE send off with a DJ, torchlight parade, and fireworks. There’s even a dance party, magician, and balloon drop for the kids!
Those looking to ground themselves before the night’s festivities may enjoy the Burning Bowl Ceremony at The Foundation of Light. This long-standing, calm and reflective ritual includes music and light refreshments.
New Year’s Day 2026
You survived New Year’s Eve 2025, so now what?
How about a rejuvenating hike? One of the Finger Lakes favorite New Year’s Day traditions is the First Day Hike at Taughannock Falls State Park. Come stretch your legs with a guided hike to the 215-foot tall Taughannock Falls. Guided hikes take approximately 90 minutes with two starting times: 10am and 1pm.
Re-center yourself for the new year with a New Year’s Day Gong Bath at the Trumansburg Conservatory of Fine Arts. The event begins at 1pm and features Celestial Communications and sound meditation for relaxation and stress reduction.
That’s Not All
We’ve only just scratched the surface of the ways you can celebrate New Year’s Eve in Ithaca. Find even more ideas at visitithaca.com.
You can also just stay in. Our Finger Lakes vacation rentals offer unparalleled comfort and flexibility for however you spend your time here.
Our Shangri-Lodge includes space for up to 13 guests with a hot tub, gorgeous views, chef’s kitchen, pool table, and more. Indulgence sleeps 12 and has a 7-person hot tub, rolling countryside views, a natural pond with dock, game table, wet bar, pool table, chef’s kitchen, and more. Both have WI-FI throughout and are just 10 minutes from downtown Ithaca.
Whichever you choose and however you decide to celebrate, Classic Country Vacation Homes wishes you Happy Holidays and a bright New Year!