Experience the magic in Downtown Kalamazoo

while you say goodbye to the year 2020

 in a SAFE, MEMORABLE, & HYBRID way!

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Due to COVID-19, and ensuring all necessary CDC guidelines are followed, the 2020 New Year's Fest will be hybrid. This will allow New Year's Fest to be able to use both outdoor space throughout downtown, and offer virtual performances through the site's live streaming and with show times also available through Public Media Network.  At this time, local rulings prevent in-person performances.  With the COVID-19 Michigan Pause, downtown popup entertainment will be a strolling experience.  And, family kits ($25) will be available to purchase that include buttons, coloring sheets, noise makers, beads, and instructions as to how to enjoy a hybrid New Year's Fest.

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Family kits can be picked up at our KELC office on December 28th - 30th. Those that do not get picked up will be available starting at 5 p.m. on the North Kalamazoo Mall on New Year's Eve. Please call in advance to schedule your pick up if coming to the office.

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The Entertainment Tab outlines the great performances already scheduled, understanding that once we determine the outcomes of the Michigan COVID "Pause" we will have a better idea as to how the outdoor events can be coordinated.  The live streaming and the Public Media Network shows will remain the same. 

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So, what's happening?

New Year’s Fest is an all-ages showcase of performing arts that takes place on New Year's Eve in Downtown Kalamazoo. The event begins at 7:00 p.m. and runs until 12 a.m. to ring in the New Year.  We are working to make the event safe and enjoyable. Performances have been scheduled for 30 minutes so that you can attend, be outdoors, and then visit a downtown restaurant to eat and get warm.  The schedule allows you to determine how you want to view the performances from either your home or from a stroll through downtown.  

 

We will highlight the restaurants and local businesses that will offer outdoor dining or experiences on New Year's Eve.  Tap along the menu bar of the website to explore the maps, the performance grid, cool things to do, and our amazing sponsors and foundations that make this event possible. 

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