OHIO — Many people look forward to popping champagne and ringing in a new year with friends when the ball drops at midnight, but amid the pandemic, New Year's Eve parties across the state won’t be what you’re used to, said Joe Oravec from Barley House in Cleveland.

What You Need To Know

  • Even amid the pandemic, there are still many events for people to bring in the new year safely and still have fun

  • Many bars and nightclubs are hosting NYE parties, but everyone has to leave by 10 p.m.

  • Some cities have NYE ice and roller skating events

  • Outside light drive-thru experiences are still available for people to view in many areas
  • Virtual 5k's and virtual concerts are also available in many areas

“Everybody that’s coming in is going to have a seat. So. you're either going to be seated at the bar or you’re going to have a VIP table. So, we obviously have to follow the guidelines. You can’t be up walking around unless you’re going to the restroom. Masks are going to be required,” said Oravec.

Across the state, some bars and nightclubs are still hosting celebrations, but everyone has to be out by 10 p.m.

“It’s not going to be the same this year, but it’s better than nothing. I’m glad we can still do something,” said Oravec.

If you’re not into the bar scene, in Columbus, you can take a winter hike at Hocking Hills or gather around the TV to watch the Columbus Symphony’s collection of performances that’s posted on their website.

“For families with young kids is the New Year's Eve event with Westerville Public Library. So, that actually starts at 11:30 a.m., and you'll count down to a balloon drop at noon, and then you'll have some songs and story time and rhymes and a virtual dance party. And that ends at 12:15 p.m. So, you're ready by nap time,” said Lexi Sweet from Experience Columbus.

In Cincinnati, skating arenas like Castle Skateland are hosting a NYE skate and BB Riverboats is offering a NYE Kids Cruise and an adult cruise.

“There's also a lot of light displays that are still taking place. The Coney Island drive-thru light display. There's one at Pyramid Hill sculpture, which is called 'JourneyBorealis.' Sharon Woods light display is still taking place. So, those are great drive-thru experiences. And the Cincinnati Nature Center also has a walkthrough experience called ‘The Forest and Light,’” said Randie Adam from the Cincinnati Convention and Visitors Bureau.

In Toledo, Hollywood Casinos has a “Ring In The New Year Sweepstakes,” where participants have the chance to win $2,021. And NYE church services are still offered in person and virtually at churches around the state.

And just like many things this year, owner of Dream Event Services in Cleveland, Kimberly Mack, says you can also just make the most out of staying at home.

“Dress up the house. Get your balloons. Go to Party City and get the balloons with the gas in it, with the helium in it, so that they'll fly up. Get you poppers. Go get to the things that you would do if you’re going to a party and do them at home for once. I gave this idea to a client; we're going to fill a bucket of water and it's going to represent the tears that we had in 2020. And we're going to pour it down the drain at 12. At midnight, we're going to dump it!” said Mack.

From getting creative and making new traditions, there are many ways to safely bring in 2021 and still have fun.

To find more events, you can Google NYE events in your city.