Charlotte’s New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day celebrations will be plentiful, but navigating which one best fits your preferences can be challenging. Here’s a local guide to what’s happening, what the “vibe” will be — casual, party scene, child-friendly — and what to expect:
Fun for the entire family
CLTNYE
This free, outdoor event happens in Uptown Charlotte. Expect live music, a DJ, lots of fireworks at midnight, and lighting of the Queen City crown. CLTNYE kicks off at 8 p.m. on Tryon Street at Levine Avenue of the Arts.
Light Show Spectacular
Ballantyne’s Backyard invites guests to experience holiday “magic” with light displays, giant snow globes, a holiday market for shopping, lots of photo opportunities and even snow tubing. The event happens on New Year’s Eve through 10 p.m., leaving visitors enough time to view New Year’s ball drop from home or another place.
New Year’s Day 5K
Bring the entire family for a 5k where participants can run, walk, or even roll through the Greenways in University City. The race ends UNC Charlotte’s campus where a celebration awaits participants with music, warm beverages, brunch and free beer for those over 21.
Light the Knights
Though this event is a celebration of the entire season, Light the Knights is open from noon until 8 p.m. on both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Family can snow tube, ice skate, shop, enjoy treats and more at the ballpark in Uptown. Costs vary by activity, but admission to the festival is set at $10 per person.
For true partygoers
Confetti Reign
This 21+ event aims to focus on two things: confetti and champagne. Guests can expect a party atmosphere with a champagne bar, and two DJs. According to the event organizers, the DJs will take guests on a “musical journey” through the night and into the morning.
DOPE Brunch Day Party
For those wanting to party all day and watch the ball drop from home, this event is a great option. According to the event page, this day party will offer hookah, drink specials, food and VIP sections with bottle service. The party begins on New Year’s Eve at 4 p.m. at Recess Charlotte. Tickets are on sale now for $20.
Big Daddy Kane’s NYE All Black Affair
Guests should plan to wear their best, in black. This New Year’s Eve party promises to bring in 2023 with a live performance by Big Daddy Kane and free party favors.
NYE Toast at Karma Lounge
Karma Lounge’s NYE party boasts complimentary champagne in reserved sections, and hip-hop and r&b music all night. Karma Lounge has dubbed this “the sexiest party of the year” in Charlotte. Guests can expect to pay between $20 and $40 to attend the indoor-outdoor event with a covered patio.
The Experience: NYE Sneaker Gala
Sneakers, food, cocktails and music are the essential elements of this event. Partygoers are encouraged to wear their “flyest kicks” with “an upscale fit.” The party happens from 9 p.m. through 2 a.m. at Morehead Tavern and the menu includes fish and grits, chicken and waffles, spinach dip, and more. Tickets start at $20 and go up to $1,000 for VIP tables.
The Carters – New Year’s Day Party
If you’ve ever wanted to party with Lil’ Wayne, Jay-Z and Beyonce’, this party might be what you’re looking for. Though the three celebrities probably won’t be in attendance, the DJs at this day party plan to make their presence apparent. At 1 p.m. at The Music Yard at Southbound, guests can expect to hear hits from Lil’ Wayne as well as favorite songs from the catalogs of Jay-Z and Beyonce’. Tickets are as little as $5 for general admission and go up to $250 for a VIP section for 8 guests.
NYE at Paparazzi
“Four celebrities, one night” is the tagline for this event. Partygoers should prepare for what the tea at Paparazzi is calling a party for “living legends.” The event details share that Diamond from the rap group Crime Mob as well as rappers Webbie, Lil’ Scrappy and Pastor Troy will be in attendance among hookah, drink specials, and hip hop hits. Guests can get tickets for as low as $25.
Uptown Sip & Paint
Guests should plan to wear their best, in black. This New Year’s Eve party promises to bring in 2023 with a live performance by Big Daddy Kane and free party favors.
New Year’s at The Artisan’s Palate
From 10:30 p.m. into New Year’s Day, guests can expect an intimate setting with a buffet and cocktails. Each ticket includes a “sparkling toast” at midnight and views of a disco ball hanging inside The Artisan’s Palate. Tickets are on sale for $62.
BGA Artist Showcase
The Black Girl Aesthetic Artist Showcase begins at 7 p.m. and ends by 10 p.m. If you’re looking for arts and culture before a party — or before heading home for the night — this interactive showcase includes live performances and “cutting edge” art on display by Black woman artists. The event will also offer dinner and drinks for guests. Tickets start at $20.
Uptown Sip & Paint
$20 tickets to this event include painting materials — brushes, canvas, paint — and all the r&b vibes needed to create a masterpiece. The event happens at 935 South Summit from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. and includes food.
NYE at The Puttery
A round of mini golf combined with a DJ playing top 40 is a great way to bring in the new year. Doors open at 5 p.m. and admission is $55 per person.
