Grand Rapids and Western Michigan are ready to welcome 2026 with exciting celebrations that bring together families, friends, and party lovers of all ages. Whether you’re looking for a glamorous night out, family activities that end before bedtime, or a cozy gathering at home, this region has something special waiting for you on New Year’s Eve.
Where to Party in Grand Rapids on New Year’s Eve 2026
The Ballroom Bashes at Amway Grand Plaza and JW Marriott have become Grand Rapids’ most iconic New Year’s Eve parties. These dual hotel celebrations let you dance between ballrooms via a climate-controlled skywalk, enjoying live music from Prior Noon and DJ Alex Miura at the Amway Grand Plaza. At the same time, DJ Kane keeps the beats flowing at Club J-DUB in the JW Marriott. Tickets start at $65 for general admission, and overnight packages include wristbands plus a luxurious 2 p.m. late checkout on January 1st.
For a more intimate vibe, check out the Afterglow concert at The Intersection featuring a DJ set by Big Gigantic, or head to The Back Forty Saloon for country music and dancing with DJ Slavin. Founders Brewing Co. hosts a free pre-party from 5 to 8 p.m. with live music and cold beer, making it a perfect way to start your evening.
Family Friendly New Year’s Eve Events in Grand Rapids
Families with young kids don’t have to stay up until midnight to celebrate. The Grand Rapids Children’s Museum hosts New Year’s Early Eve on December 30th from 5 to 8 p.m., featuring party hats, noisemakers, a glitter photo booth, face painting, and a confetti ball drop. Kent District Library and Grand Rapids Public Library branches celebrate Happy Noon Year with crafts, games, and dance parties at noon.
For active families, Battle GR offers two sessions with laser tag, archery tag, and corn hole, while Craig’s Cruisers provides go-karts, bumper cars, glow golf, and a trampoline park from 4 to 8 p.m. with an unlimited buffet. The Grand Rapids Griffins cap off their hockey game against the Milwaukee Admirals with fireworks and open skating at Van Andel Arena.
New Year’s Eve Fireworks Displays in Western Michigan
Beyond Grand Rapids, Western Michigan communities offer spectacular ways to ring in 2026. Downtown Allegan hosts Michigan’s largest lighted ball drop, along with a free outdoor celebration featuring massive fire pits, food trucks, ice skating, a silent disco, and live music from 8 p.m. to midnight. South Haven fills downtown streets with food trucks, late-night shopping, a DJ, and fireworks for a festive lakeshore celebration.
Staying Safe During New Year’s Eve Celebrations
According to Michigan fireworks laws, consumer fireworks are legal on December 31st until 1 a.m. on January 1st, but you must be 18 or older to purchase and use them. Always light fireworks on private property with permission, keep water nearby, never relight malfunctioning fireworks, and avoid using fireworks while impaired. If you’re heading out to bars or parties, designate a sober driver or use rideshare services to get home safely.
Plan Your Perfect New Year’s Eve in Grand Rapids
Whether you choose an elegant ballroom bash, a family countdown before bedtime, or a Western Michigan community celebration, Grand Rapids offers countless ways to celebrate the arrival of 2026. Book your tickets early for popular events, make dinner reservations in advance, and dress for the weather if you’re attending outdoor festivities. Join thousands of others across the region as we say goodbye to 2025 and welcome a fresh start together. Get ready to make memories that will last well into the new year.
Sources: experiencegr.com, grcm.org, michigan.org, wmta.org
Header Image Source: weston m on Unsplash
