Earlier this month, winter storm Diego had everyone excited. There was so much snow on the ground! Appalachian State University students were actually able to snowboard and ski on campus. So many great videos surfaced, but this was one of our favorites. All that snow inspired us to dig into the history of winter sports in our area, and we actually wrote a blog several weeks ago with all kinds of helpful info for those interested in hitting the slopes in the high country. This week, as we think about the end of the holiday season and the beginning of a new year, we decided to focus on New Year’s Eve events in Boone, NC. And it just so happens that you can actually ring in the new year on the slopes at Appalachian Ski Mountain!
Skiing on New Year’s Eve
There are so many great places to ski and snowboard in the high country; it’s practically impossible for us to pick a favorite. However, Appalachian Ski Mountain is located closest to The Horton Hotel and Rooftop Lounge; it’s only 6 miles away. App Ski Mountain is the second oldest ski area in the state. It opened in the late 1960’s, and over the years has expanded to include twelve slopes. Appalachian Ski Mountain is also known for the French Swiss Ski College. It was founded in 1969, and it is the oldest and most renowned ski school in the southeast.
Every New Year’s Eve, Appalachian Ski Mountain hosts a special event. Enjoy late night skiing and festive food in the lodge from 9pm until midnight. Watch instructors from the French Swiss Ski College glide down from the tallest slope, with torches lit, while fireworks abound. It’s truly a magical, breathtaking experience. Click here to get the details and to learn more about Appalachian Ski Mountain.
More skiing and snowboarding
Although a bit of a longer drive, Beech Mountain Resort also offers their annual Rockin’ New Year’s Eve Bash. In addition to torchlight skiing and moonlight ice-skating, you can also enjoy live music by SoulPlay. Beech Mountain Resort offers a NYE family night specifically for the little ones too. Learn about those events and more happening on Beech by clicking here. Don’t forget Sugar Mountain! They also have a NYE celebration and they will have live music by The Rockabillys. Learn more by clicking here.
Events in Boone NC: New Years
If winter sports aren’t really your thing, there are plenty of other options in town. Dress up and enjoy a fine meal, or dance the night away in one of our favorite local bars. Not one for going out on NYE? Stay in, rest up, and rise early to enjoy a “first day hike.” If you’re planning on staying in or hosting your own get together, try your hand at one of the Horton’s favorite bubbly New Year’s Eve cocktails. Click below to get the recipes, and read on to learn about other New Years events in Boone NC.
Email me the NYE cocktail recipes!
Dining
The Restaurant at Gideon Ridge Inn, in Blowing Rock NC
Blowing Rock’s best kept secret, The Restaurant at Gideon Ridge Inn, always serves up a special NYE dinner. Think romantic candlelit tables, crackling fires, top notch service and food. The restaurant books up quickly, so make sure you arrange reservations months in advance.
Another high end place for a romantic dinner, Joy Bistro is located in Boone NC. Each year, they offer an ever-changing and creative NYE menu. The atmosphere is intimate, featuring sophisticated French dishes and a fabulous wine and cocktail menu.
Dancing
The Local, in downtown Boone NC
The Local knows how to throw a party. They always have great drink specials, too. Drop in on NYE and get down while DJ Kermitron 5000 mixes beats.
Boone Saloon, in downtown Boone NC
We just love Boone Saloon, and they always have something going on. You’ll never drink alone at the saloon! Dance and enjoy live music by Unaka Prong, DownTown Abby, and The Echoes.
Adventure
First day hikes, North Carolina State Parks
On January 1st, North Carolina state parks are hosting first day hikes. Click the link above to get the details on various hikes happening in and around Boone and all across North Carolina.
Shopping in Boone NC
Many of downtown Boone’s boutique retail shops offer excellent end of year sales. Explore a few of our favorite places, like Lililu on King or Lucky Penny to see what you can find. Shop before NYE and find the perfect party outfit.
Happy New Year!
Whatever your plans are, we hope you enjoy yourself, and we wish you and yours a wonderful New Year full of peace, love, and joy. We can’t wait to host a NYE party at The Horton Hotel and Rooftop Lounge next year. In the meantime, if you make one of our NYE cocktails, make sure to share it on Facebook or post it on Instagram and tag us, of course!
