Oh 2020, what a ride it’s been. Only a few days remaining in the year we will never forget. What do we make of it? Do we reflect on all we’ve learned during the past year? Do we set intentions for the year ahead? Do we make a toast for simply coming this far with our community? It can be challenging to celebrate when everything around us feels uncertain. Some of our traditions don’t feel as safe this year. Some of us couldn’t gather with those we love most.
Whether or not you are big on holiday traditions, I think we can all agree that this season has been unlike any other. This year has felt restricted and heavy with loss. Yet, it has also been a time of relying on our community for support, peace and joy. I can’t think of a place that embodies the word community more than Elkhart Lake. While this place can be sleepy in December, it holds a serenity we locals love.
While we enjoy our solitude, we also know how to spring to life when celebration calls. Elkhart is small, but mighty in spirit. This village carries a spark of fun and festivities, even in the dead of winter. What a perfect little spot to turn the page on the craziness of 2020 and step into 2021.
For me, it will be time to celebrate in true Wisconsinite fashion. Many of my family’s holiday traditions are rooted in outdoor merriment. On New Year’s Eve, we will be gathered around the bonfire, toasting something bubbly from Vintage Elkhart Lake. New Year’s Day will bring us to the longstanding local Tiki Bar tradition of Bloody Marys in the brisk January air.
Depending on your comfort level during this strange time, there are a range of activities to enjoy. Below is the lineup of New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day festivities happening in Elkhart Lake. Bundle up and bring on 2021!
NEW YEAR’S EVE
Siebkens
A Very Siebkens New Year- Celebrating the 80’s because 2020 doesn’t deserve it! Reserve your tickets for a six-course dinner with two limited seatings for COVID precautions.
Early Party: 5:00pm – 7:30pm and Late Party: 8:00pm – 2:00am which includes DJ, dancing and serving your favorite 80’s cocktails.
Osthoff Resort
Ring in the New Year and Rock out the old with two live music opportunities:
Jim Rosetti at the Elk Room from 8:30pm – 12:30am
Enjoy and exquisite meal and a champagne toast with the Abler Boys from 9pm – 1am at Concourse Restaurant and Lounge
The Shore Club
The Shore Club Holiday Pop-Up is filled with music, holiday decor, games and a scavenger hunt for all ages. The Tiki menu will be available 5pm-midnight. Open 4pm – Late.
NEW YEAR’S DAY
The Shore Club
A very merry local tradition. The Tiki Bar will be serving brats, burgers, and cheese curds. Polka band, too! 11:00am until the temps drop.
Route 67
Dave Steffen band will be rocking from 1:00pm – 4:00pm. Outdoor bar and tent setup with food service.
Ouit Qui Oc
Winter Tailgate Party! –Fun starts at 10:00 a.m. Snowshoeing or walking on the golf course, winter golf, yard games, and firepits with smores. Lunch served from 11:00am – 3:00pm. Fish Fry from 4:00pm – 8:00pm.
Make your New Year’s safe and fun with great overnight packages
