New Year’s Eve in McMinnville
Our beloved little town is bustling with life around the holidays and few McMinnville evenings have more to offer than New Year’s Eve. This year, as you say farewell to 2018 and toast to a fulfilling 2019, do so from Third Street’s festive headquarters. Here, you’re in walking distance from a slew of spirited gatherings, from country music dance parties to family-friendly activities.
The twinkling lights of downtown McMinnville will still be aglow and locals and visitors alike will be looking fondly toward a brand new year. There’s enough going on December 31st that you can start in early on some of your New Year’s resolutions. Here are just a few events worthy of your consideration (and a glass of bubbly).
Music, Food & Beverages
Hotel Oregon is offering Big Mama Gayle & her Sugar Daddies for musical entertainment. The band blends cabaret, theatre and rock ‘n’ roll for a high-energy set that will roll well past midnight. Bring your dancing shoes for this one.
Your last meal of 2018 should be a memorable one. French restaurant Bistro Maison is putting together a pair of fixed menus on NYE, with expertly paired wines from near and far. The Barberry is preparing a special menu as well, built around fresh shellfish and pasta.
Nick’s Italian Cafe may not be hosting a formal event, but a visit to the Back Room for a cocktail or a bowl of their classic minestrone is always a good idea. Golden Valley Brewery is offering a special menu to accompany its family of beers, including lobster bisque and prime rib. Or end year year tasting through plate after plate of small bites at La Rambla, for the full tapas experience.
For a pint, drop by Allegory Brewing on the edge of the Granary District or the Bitter Monk on Third Street. Pop into beloved German-inspired brewery Heater Allen that afternoon for to-go bottles before they shut down in January for some light remodeling.
The McMinnville Grange Hall will host Dennis Brutke and the Country Gents for an evening of twang and rug cutting.
Things To Do
For something less boozy, try a women’s basketball game at nearby Linfield College. The campus is a great backdrop for a winter stroll and a mid-winter hoops match is never a bad idea. Our local bowling alley, Walnut City Lanes, is open New Year’s Eve and the perfect place to master your 7-10 split.
Or, pretend it’s summertime and head over to Wings & Waves for indoor waterslides and plenty of aquatic fun. An afternoon swim is great for the kids and an ideal way for the adults to get ahead of the coming hangover.
