New Year’s Revelry and Reflection Across the Ocean State

As we get ready to send off the year in style, Rhode Island hosts plenty of happenings for all kinds of fun, whether the family is in tow or you’re seeking an evening of elegance – and everything in between. Read on for ways to party all night and rally in the morning for a plunge or brunch!

NEW YEAR’S EVE: Sunday, December 31, 2023

The sky over Providence will sparkle after a few years without an NYE spectacle thanks to the Illuminate PVD Fireworks Show over the Michael Van Leesten Pedestrian Bridge, with beer, food trucks, WaterFire, and entertainment. 7-9pm, Providence

It’s a blast from the past at Troop’s West End Prom, featuring Wattz Beatz, dance party vibes, a chance to dress up and take pics in a photobooth, and a special menu. Reserve online, Providence

Before ringing in the new year, set your sights on celestial wonders with a visit to Frosty Drew Observatory for views of Uranus, Albireo, the Orion Nebula, and maybe even a comet. Starting at 4:30pm, Ninigret Park will also hold a festive bonfire. 7-9pm, Charlestown

Don a mask and something sparkly for the red carpet New Year’s Eve Masquerade at SafeHouse, with DJs upstairs and downstairs, activities, food and drink specials, and champagne toast, and more. 9pm-1am, East Greenwich

Celebrate in the City by the Sea at the Newport New Years Eve Countdown, a night of DJ music and revelry unfolding at Gas Lamp Grille, with cocktail casual attire required. Reserve online, Newport

Bring the whole crew to United Skates of America for the Annual Family New Year's Eve Party. Glide around the rink, tuck into all-you-can-eat pizza, play games, and count down to 2024 with noisemakers and confetti. Reserve online, East Providence

Gift Horse welcomes guest chef Sky Haneulkim, presenting an array of house-made banchan, aged local duck, dessert, and more for a full-course Korean Han-jeongsik Feast. Stick around for a dance party at Gift Horse and Oberlin. Reserve online, Providence

Party like it’s 1924 for a Prohibition era-themed Gatsby Glamour New Year's Eve Ball at The Event Factory. Dress in your roaring ‘20s best and brush up on your Charleston steps for an evening of opulence. Reserve online, Warwick

Bring your little ones to Providence Children’s Museum for the earliest and cutest end-of-year festivities: Noon Year’s Eve! A dance party, photo booth, ball drop, and more will send off 2023 in style. 9:30am-12:30pm, Providence

Before bidding 2023 adieu, see what’s in store for the year to come with the New Year’s Pathways to Possibility at Pivotal Brewing Company, a mystical afternoon of medium readings, tarot, and oracle cards. 1-5pm, Bristol

NEW YEAR’S DAY: Monday, January 1, 2024

Trek into 2024 at George Washington State Park for the First Day Hike, a guided walk along a 1.5-mile loop. Children accompanied by an adult are welcome, along with leashed dogs. 10am-1pm, Chepachet

Earn bragging rights for the rest of the year by participating in the 13th Annual Frozen Clam Dip & Obstaplunge, a ninja-style obstacle course ending with a leap in the frigid Narragansett Bay, benefiting MENTOR Rhode Island. 11am-1pm, Warwick

Support the children and families of A Wish Come True as a team or on your own by taking a dip at Easton’s Beach for the 20th Annual Polar Plunge. Arrive early to get a parking spot. Newport, 12pm

Learn the cha cha, foxtrot, or rumba (or all three!) with New Year’s Day Workshops at The Dancing Feeling led by Giovanni D’Arpino and Nicole Heisler and guest instructors. Tickets online, Warwick

Treat yourself to made-to-order egg benedicts, bacon, and donuts – the perfect cure to a night of revelry – at Hotel Viking’s New Years Day Brunch. Did we mention there’s a mimosa bad bloody Mary station? Reserve online, Newport