New Year's Eve 2016: Ten Suggestions for Tardy Types in Denver

According to WalletHub, Denver is the fourth-best place in the country for celebrating New Year’s Eve. (By its count, Orlando rates the top slot.) But we disagree: We’re high on all the different ways you can spend December 31 in the Mile High City, from watching free fireworks to running around Washington Park to boogying in black tie.  Still undecided about what to do? Here are some quick suggestions, grouped by type.
Bargain Hunters: Once again, downtown Denver will be celebrating the end of the year with two rounds of fireworks, at 9 p.m. and again at midnight. The show is free, and so is the people-watching.

Early Birds: If you can’t make it until 9 p.m. for the first round of fireworks, head to the Children’s Museum at noon on December 31, for the annual Noon Year’s Eve Party. The Rink at Belmar in Lakewood will also be celebrating with a special countdown at noon.

Athletes: For the 32nd year, the Resolution 5K will take runners around Washington Park; wear New Year’s Eve duds for a chance to win prizes. You’ll be done in time to head to Topgolf in Centennial, which is offering drinks, dining and neon golfing.

Jokesters: Both Comedy Works locations will be offering the kind of top-notch talent that has earned the outfit a reputation as one of the best places for comedy in the country. Or take a chance on improv at Bovine Metropolis.
Foodies: Restaurants across the metro area are offering special deals and champagne toasts on New Year’s Eve. Go as high-end as Frasca or take your pick from six eateries at Avanti in LoHi. Celebrate Hawaiian-style at Rebel Restaurant or enjoy a Prince-inspired feast at Beast + Bottle.

Keep reading for more New Year's Eve options.

Music Fans: Party like it's 1999 with Big Head Todd & the Monsters at Ophelia’s, or catch the String Cheese Incident at 1STBANKCenter.

Voyeurs: Take it off, take it almost all off. Naughty Pierre and the Clockettes will present an evening of glitzy, vintage-style burlesque at the Clocktower Cabaret.
Eccentrics: Performance doesn’t get more eccentric — or enjoyable — than the internationally renowned Itchy-O, which will be at Summit Music Hall.

Socialites: Going for glamour on New Year’s Eve? The Sheraton Downtown is throwing a black-tie bash, and the annual White Rose Gala at the Ellie Caulkins is an unbeatable posh party.

Undecided: Can’t make up your mind? Union Station will be hosting parties throughout the renovated building, with everything from a silent disco to a speakeasy, and in Boulder, the Hotel Boulderado will put on five separate parties under one roof.

See more options in our listings.