Downtown Springfield Association
A woman holds a glass of champagne
Downtown Business Spotlight

Whether you’re rockin’ or relaxin’, celebrate New Year’s Eve with Downtown Springfield

December 30, 2020


We say this with much joy: Goodbye, 2020!

We’re all ready to ring in a new year, right? The big question is this: Get out or stay home? No matter what you want your New Year’s Eve to look like, rockin’ or relaxin’, Downtown Springfield has what you’re looking for.

All of our small, locally-owned businesses need your help right now. You can help them either way. Check out what Downtown has to offer as we scoot 2020 out the door.

Rockin’ options

Martha’s Vineyard is hosting a special event, A Rock’n NYE: Step Into Our Fantasy. Dress up as your favorite fantasy character and go off to Never-land. Every part of Martha’s will be themed as a different far-off fantasy land, switching and evolving through the night. There will be a costume contest and, at 10:30, an hour-long theatrical production! Enjoy the story of Peter Pan through rock’n’roll! And that’s not all! Cover is $10 for 21-and-over, $15 for 18-20. Masks and temperature checks required for entry and Martha’s will be operating at a reduced capacity.

Looking for some glamour? Check out NYE at Hotel Vandivort. Reserve a table at The Order and feast on a three-course specialty meal before the party. There will be live music from Brant Jester in the Historic Vandivort living room and a se from DJ George Butler. Like your celebration with a view? Check out Vantage. You can party indoors or take it outside in one of their heated igloos (reservations are being taken now).

Craft beer fans can enjoy a mellow evening of music at Hold Fast Brewing. Alyssa Galvan will be playing from 7-9 p.m. She’s a 15-year-old singer/songwriter/cover artist from Carl Junction. Hang around after she’s done and enjoy your favorite brews and champagne as you say goodbye 2020 and hello 2021.

It will be less low-key at Inner Circle Vodka Bar. They’re putting on a Poppin’ Bottles NYE Party at the corner of Campbell and Walnut. DJ CEO will be spinning tunes before a big midnight countdown. Entry includes a complimentary champagne toast! You can also book a VIP booth with bottle service for your crew. Only four are available, so don’t delay!

Grateful Dead fans rejoice! The Schwag is coming to the Outland Complex for a NYE blowout. The Schwag is a band of musicians dedicated to carrying on the vibe and music of the Dead. Found in 1991, The Schwag has performed more than 3,000 concerts all over the United States and opened for bands including String Cheese Incident, Marshall Tucker Band, Sammy Hagar, Little Feat and Railroad Earth. Tickets are $20. Capacity is limited, masks are mandatory and social distancing is enforced.

Relaxin’ options

Support Springfield Contemporary Theatre by streaming one, or two, of their holiday specials! Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol is a performance like no other. The timeless tale of Ebenezer Scrooge comes to thrilling new life as Tony Award winner Jefferson Mays plays more than 50 roles in a virtuosic, master class of a performance.

Looking for some great tunes? Check out SCT Sings Home for the Holidays. This special is reminiscent of the days of Perry Como and Bing Crosby, with a modern twist. The Springfield Contemporary Theatre team goes on location, capturing some of your favorite area performers and other special guests. You’ll be treated to some of your favorite songs of the season. Dec. 31 is your last chance to check out the show!

Streaming fees for both of these shows help sustain SCT as they deal with the impact of the COVID pandemic.

Check out our Holiday Shopping Guide for suggestions on food and drink for your party! Cocktails or craft beer? Tacos or BBQ? Cupcakes or cookies? Support these small businesses from the safety of your own home!

Whatever you do, the Downtown Springfield Association wishes you a happy new year!