Pirates. Unicorns. Magic. Where can you go to encounter these mystical things and so much more? Downtown Mount Clemens, of course!
On Dec. 31, 2018, families are invited to the city’s downtown area to ring in 2019 during New Year’s Eve in Mount Clemens, which features two celebrations – New Year’s Eve in Never Never Land (geared at families) and the New Year’s Eve Gala (for moms and dads).
While the gala has been a city staple for more than 20 years, the Never Never Land celebration has only be around for six years now, says Michelle Weiss, the marketing and event coordinator with downtown Mount Clemens.
The idea for the kid-friendly event came about, Weiss says, when “we noticed with our regular gala that we were getting families coming and literally letting the kids stay out till like midnight or 12:30 a.m.”
So Mount Clemens opted to add the celebration. And it was well worth it. Today, families from all around – some even come from Toronto, Weiss says – venture to the city’s downtown area for all-ages fun that kicks off at 4 p.m. and involves several local businesses.
“It’s become a family thing – and mom and dad, grandma and grandpa and the kids all come,” Weiss says. And when the gala begins, the grandparents take the kids home so mom and dad have their own time to celebrate the New Year.
While Weiss says there are some surprises in store, here’s a guide to what’s happening beginning at 4 p.m.
Meet Spider-Man at Gus’ Coney Island on Main Street, catch up with Paw Patrol‘s Chase at Orleans Sports Cafe and Sky at O’Halloran’s Public House, both located on Macomb Place, all beginning at 4 p.m. and continuing until 7 p.m.
From 4 to 9 p.m., Gus’ Coney Island is the place to be for fantasy face painting, which is done for a small fee.
Stop by Subway on Main Street, too, for a coloring craft, hit up the Masonic Temple for magic shows at 5:30, 6:30 and 7:30 p.m. (for a small fee), and enjoy a story time with the Fairy Godmother at 8:15 p.m. at ABC Magic Shop on North Walnut Street.
Plus take a train ride and pony ride, or meet some furry friends at the petting zoo – all located on Walnut Street.
If you need a break from the cold temps, step inside the warming center any time between 4 and 8 p.m. to participate in crafts, meet some pirates, enjoy a carless drive-in movie and have snacks.
The kids’ event ends with a 9 p.m. ball drop to ring in the new year.
During the gala near the main stage on Main Street, enjoy – or participate in – Talent Karaoke and head in and out of local businesses to celebrate the season. The event is set up with both indoor and outdoor fun, so “you’re not standing outside for that whole time,” Weiss adds.
Both events are free and offer a wonderful opportunity for those looking to celebrate the beginning of 2019 without breaking the bank.
“I get such joy out of watching families and people coming to our events and having a good time,” Weiss says. “It’s our Disney World for the night.”
For more information on New Year’s Eve in Mount Clemens, visit the downtown Mount Clemens website.
For more information on living and learning in Macomb County, visit Make Macomb Your Home. Find more articles like this at Metro Parent’s A Family Guide to Macomb County.
