Champagne? Check. Party dress? Check. New Year’s resolution prepared? Check. The New Year is always an exciting time, but sometimes there are just too many events happening at once and it can be difficult to know where to begin and end your night. Tucson is no exception, but we’ve narrowed down the list to only the most A-list-worthy parties so that you can concentrate more on what shoes you’re going to wear and less on planning out your evening.
Murder at the Magic Show: New Year's Eve at Westin La Paloma Resort
Skip the chaotic parties and overcrowded nightclubs and ring in 2017 in a unique and entertaining way. The Westin La Paloma Resort in Tucson is hosting a Dinner Theater Variety Show where great food, a hilarious show and live music will all take place.
Kicking off the evening is a candle-lit three-course dinner prepared by the Executive Chef of La Paloma and a three-act murder-mystery comedy show titled Murder at the Magic Show. The show is a whodunit murder-mystery presented by the same people in charge of the longest running mystery dinner theater shows in Southern Arizona. Set in the Westin La Paloma's Grand Ballroom at an actual magic show, the show will feature a comedy dance contest and Silver Sleuth award for the mystery-solving winner. Afterwards, guests will enjoy several short variety acts along with live music, a DJ and dancing.
In between acts, guests can look forward to a gypsy fortune teller being available to predict guests' 2017 futures as well as a 1930's-styled photographer and a cigarette-cigar-candy coat check girl. Keeping with the old-school atmosphere, a legally-designated smoking area will be available outdoors for guests to contemplate whodunit.
Those hesitant to leave behind the traditional clamor of New Year's can rest easy as there will also be a traditional Champagne toast, balloon drop, party hats, noisemakers and more festive trinkets included in the ticket price along with an overnight stay at the Westin La Paloma Resort.
For those with youngsters, the resort is offering a Kid's Club, a separate adult-supervised program where games, movies and craft projects will be available along with an earlier version of a New Year's countdown.
Consistently listed as one of the "Best Things To Do" by Tucson Guide Magazine and awarded Tucson Lifestyle's "Best Of Tucson" award, this mysterious and entertaining event is sure to start your New Year off right.
Tickets are $199 and include an overnight stay at the Westin La Paloma Resort. Ticket options without the hotel stay are also available. Full bar service is available for separate liquor purchases all evening.
The evening will take place from 7:30 p.m. to 1 a.m. Dinner and show at 8 p.m.
For more information, visit: tucsonnewyear.com | For reservations, call: 800.266.4800
New Year’s Eve Jazz Gala
The JW Marriott Starr Pass is one of Tucson’s most luxurious resorts, and what better way to spend an evening there than with some Jazz music? Recognized as Tucson’s premiere New Year’s Eve sell-out event, the 2010 version will be just as, if not more, over the top than in years past. Proudly supported by Tucson Mayor Bob Walkup, the event will feature a VIP Hospitality Hour, jazz performances from some of the best local musicians and two Tucson Jazz Society raffles (one of which will feature the unveiling of the Tucson Jazz Society Custom Motorcycle). As an added bonus, the Tucson Jazz Society has partnered with the JW Marriott to offer guests a special rate of $119 per night for this event. www.tucsonjazz.org.
New Year’s Eve at Club Congress
For a younger, livelier crowd, a New Year’s Eve at Downtown Tucson’s Club Congress may be in order. The theme is New Year’s Eve Mambo Congress and it is sure to be a night filled with top-notch and unique entertainment and amenities. Sergio Mendoza y la Orkesta and The Jons will play outside on the plaza, and the Club Optimist Dance Party will take place all night long in the club. Other event attractions include Mambo lessons, penny drinks and delicious food, sexy music, a Champagne toast and a gigantic pineapple drop at midnight. 8 p.m.-2 a.m. $20 in advance; $25 at the door; $85 for VIP (only 100 available). www.hotelcongress.com.
First Night Tucson: New Year’s Eve
If your partying days are behind you and you’re now looking for a way to celebrate New Year’s Eve with children in tow, Downtown Tucson just may be the perfect place for you and your family this year. No, we’re not talking about Club Congress—this holiday, the Downtown Tucson Partnership is hosting a family-friendly, alcohol-free celebration at numerous venues. However, that doesn’t mean it will be any less fun: these celebrations will include live music, dining, movies, kids’ activities and a midnight fireworks show. 4 p.m.-12:30 a.m. Adults, $12; kids ages 6-12, $6; kids 5 and under, free. www.downtowntucson.org.
Moveable Musical Feast: New Year’s Eve at Arizona Inn
If it’s a romantic, intimate dinner and celebration you’re seeking out this holiday, a visit to the historic Arizona Inn won’t have you disappointed. This year, the Tucson Symphony Orchestra will perform a breathtaking concert while you enjoy a delicious dinner. This elegant event will feature music by TSO’s string quartet as well as TSO soloists. Starts at 6:30 p.m. $195 per person. www.tucsonsymphony.org.
