How to Throw a Cleveland-Inspired New Year’s Eve Party

With all the pageantry and fancy clothes, there’s something special about ringing in the New Year with a night on the town. Yet, sometimes life, kids and procrastination get in the way of that fancy party or hot reservation. But that doesn’t mean you can’t add a little Cleveland fun to your at-home New Year’s Eve party this year. Read on for our guide to CLE-ifying your gathering this New Year’s Eve. And if you’re looking for ways to get out and about, check out this guide. 

Replace Champagne with Magis Cider. Cleveland may be Paris of the Midwest, but we prefer a hometown beverage to champagne. Hard apple cider, especially when it’s sparking, has a very similar character to champagne. Brought to you by Market Garden Brewery (1849 W. 24th St., Cleveland), Magis Cider’s semi-dry cider is all natural and made with locally sourced and pressed Ohio apples. The only thing you’ll miss is popping the cork. 

Create an all-local charcuterie board. A charcuterie board is the perfect shareable treat to keep you and your guests snacking all night long — and a great place to showcase all the great foodstuff made by Clevelanders. Ohio City Provisions (3208 Lorain Ave., Cleveland) is one of our favorite places to pick up salami, capicola and other fresh cuts. Add cave-aged gouda from Old Brooklyn Cheese Co. (4464 Broadview Road, Cleveland), available in a range of flavors from red wine to dill pickle, and you’re on your way to a delicious offering. Or if you’re feeling lazy, pick up one of Old Brooklyn Cheese Co.’s premade charcuterie boards. 

Pick up a new board game from one of Northeast Ohio's friendly local game stores, getting recommendations from the folks who know the scene best. There are two routes to go: a CLE-inspired game, such as Cleveland Against the World or Cleveland-opoly, or a game from a local, boutique board game store. Check out Recess Games (26636 Brookpark Road, North Olmsted), Superscript (13361 Madison Ave., Lakewood) or Kidforce Collectibles (103 Front St., Berea) for big selections. Or, head to Tabletop Board Game Cafe (1810 W. 25th St., Cleveland) to test out a board game or two onsite. While you’re there, ask for recommendations on the best board games designed by local artists and game masters — there are plenty to choose from.

Ring in the new year with local tunes. There's always plenty of new music to check out from Cleveland bands and artists. (We'll highlight some of the year's best releases very soon.) But for now, we recommend checking out Lea Marra & The Dreamcatchers' new holiday EP A Candy Cane Christmas, which features a great cover of the New Year's classic "Auld Lang Syne.” Listen at midnight to provide the perfect musical bookend to 2022.