Local events offer opportunities to greet 2019

Published 5:57 pm Friday, December 28, 2018

Amidst the festivities surrounding New Year’s Eve this year, a number of businesses are staying open late to ring in 2019, offering a local alternative to staying at home and watching the ball drop, and the festivities start this weekend.

The New Year’s celebrations kick off tonight at 7 p.m. at the Turnage Theatre, as the I.C. Improv Group hosts its New Year’s Eve, Eve, Eve, Comedy Show. The show promises loads of laughs, and admission is $5.

On Saturday, as well, The Wine Crate will celebrate the New Year and the repeal of the 18th and the ratification of the 21st amendments to the U.S. Constitution with a speakeasy-style Prohibition Party. With live music from Gary Braddy, a candlelit atmosphere, free admission and a champagne toast, all it takes is a special passphase to get in — “All that Jazz.”

For those looking for something to do earlier in the evening on Dec. 31, Grub Brothers Eatery will host a New Year’s Eve paint party from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday with artist Jenna Lewis. Attendees will have the opportunity to paint their own beverage glasses of choice, with champagne flutes, wine glasses and beer glasses each a possibility. Preregistration is required and tickets are available online at eventbrite.com.

As the clock ticks closer to midnight, the festivities continue at Grubs and kick into gear at other local eateries and bars downtown. From 8 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., Ribeyes of Washington will host a free New Year’s Eve event, featuring DJ Justin Rouse, as well as drink specials and a champagne toast a midnight.

Down the street, at Market Street Pub, live music will mark the evening, as the Eli Craig Band hosts its annual New Year’s Eve Party. A $15 cover gets admission, hors d’oeuvres, party favors and a champagne toast when the ball drops.

For those who aren’t nursing a big head on Tuesday morning, a free event at Goose Creek State Park promises to start 2019 off right, with a little fresh air and exercise. The park will hold its annual First Day Hike beginning at 10 a.m., with a ranger guiding attendees through wildlife and waterfowl hotspots around the park.