New Year's Eve December 31, 2025 in Nisswa and Brainerd Lakes Area Guide
- Camp Nisswa
- Dec 9, 2025
- 20 min read
Updated: Dec 30, 2025
Looking for plans on New Year’s Eve in the Nisswa and Brainerd Lakes Area? This curated list of events, dinners, specials, and local happenings will help you make the most of your celebration. From cozy dinners to live music and late-night parties, there’s no shortage of ways to ring in the new year Up North.
We’ll continue updating this guide as more events and specials are announced. If you have something to share, email us at info@campnisswa.com or submit your details through our event submission page. Let’s kick off 2026 lakes style. New Year's Eve
Events, Dinners, & Parties:
(KID FRIENDLY) NOON Year’s Eve Party for Kids at Grand View Lodge Spa and Golf Resort (Nisswa, MN)
Date & Time: Dec 31, 2025, 10:30 AM – 11:15 AM
Details: Just Juice is hosting a kid-friendly “NOON Year’s Eve” celebration, perfect for ages 3–10. This drop-off event lets kids enjoy bubbly beverages, a balloon dance party, craft stations, games, music, and a countdown to noon — all inside the North Park Hotel at Grand View Lodge. While the kids celebrate, parents can relax nearby at Brew inside North Park Hotel with coffee, breakfast, or a drink.
Cost $26 per child (plus service fee).
Location: Grand View Lodge Spa and Golf Resort, 23521 Nokomis Ave, Nisswa, MN 56468
Noon-Year’s Eve Party with WonderTrek (Baxter, MN)
Date & Time: Wednesday, December 31, 2025, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Details: Looking for a family-friendly way to celebrate New Year’s Eve before bedtime? Join WonderTrek for their Annual Noon-Year’s Eve Party & Balloon Drop. Families can enjoy a festive countdown to NOON, hands-on play stations for all ages, Big Blue Blocks, indoor play with new activities each hour, snacks and drinks, and a cozy space to relax and connect. A perfect way to ring in 2026 with joy, movement, and community — without staying up late.
Cost: Free (open to all)
Location: Just For Kix 6948 Lake Forest Rd, Baxter, MN 56425
New Year’s Eve Party at Lakes Party & BounceHouse (Brainerd, MN)
Date & Time: Wednesday, December 31 • 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Details: Lakes Party & BounceHouse is bringing back its family-friendly New Year’s Eve party by popular demand. Kids can enjoy a countdown celebration with bubbly juice, followed by black lights and high-energy bouncing fun. Designed for younger kids and families looking to celebrate before bedtime.
Location: 15840 Audubon Way, Suite D (FitQuest Building), Brainerd, MN
New Year’s Menu & Holiday Specials at Grizzly’s Wood-Fired Grill (Baxter, MN)
Date & Time: December 26, 2025 – January 31, 2026 (during regular hours)
Details: Grizzly’s Wood-Fired Grill is keeping New Year plans easy with limited-time holiday specials available from December 26 through January 31, alongside their full regular menu. Featured specials include Tuscan Chicken Pasta, Honey Glazed Salmon, and a 6oz Tenderloin with optional wood-fired shrimp add-on. A perfect stop for a relaxed post-holiday meal or a cozy dinner leading into the New Year, all with signature wood-fired flavor.
Location: Grizzly’s Wood-Fired Grill, Baxter, MN
New Year’s Specials at Black Bear Lodge & Saloon (Baxter, MN)
Date & Time: December 26–31, 2025 • Prime Rib available starting at 5:00 PM (while it lasts)
Details: Celebrate the New Year with classic Northwoods dinner specials at Black Bear Lodge & Saloon. The New Year’s menu features Steak & Lobster for $51, Twin Lobster Tail Dinner for $51, and Prime Rib available starting at 5:00 PM until sold out. Guests can also add a lobster tail to any prime rib or steak entrée for $16. Reservations are encouraged for groups of five or more.
Location: Black Bear Lodge & Saloon14819 Edgewood Drive, Baxter, MN
New Year’s Eve at Lucky’s Tavern (Pequot Lakes, MN)
Date & Time: Wednesday, December 31, 2025 | Events throughout the afternoon & evening
Details: Ring in New Year’s Eve at Lucky’s Tavern with a full day of fun. The celebration includes a Mega Steak & Seafood Raffle starting at 2:00 PM with $2,000 worth of meat up for grabs, Pig Races kicking off at 3:30 PM, and 2-for-1 drinks from 10:00 PM to Midnight to close out the night.
Location: 31020 Government Dr, Pequot Lakes, MN
NYE Alaskan King Crab Sunshine's SummerHouse (Nisswa, MN)
Date & Time: Saturday, December 27, 2025 & Wednesday, December 31, 2025
Details: Enjoy an exclusive Alaskan King Crab New Year’s Eve dinner. Seating is limited, so call 218-961-4300 to reserve your spot. (Steaks also available)
New Year’s Eve Dinner at Lakes Tavern (Pequot Lakes, MN)
Date & Time: December 31, 2025 • Dinner service during regular hours (reservations recommended)
Details: Celebrate New Year’s Eve at Lakes Tavern with special holiday dinner features. Menu highlights include Beef Wellington with a 7 oz filet mignon wrapped in prosciutto, wild mushroom duxelle, puff pastry, and red wine demi-glace, as well as a Steak & Lobster option featuring a 7 oz filet mignon and 6 oz lobster tail with sides. A great option for a classic, elevated New Year’s Eve dinner.
Tickets: Dinner pricing varies by entrée.
Location: Lakes Tavern, 29067 Peterson Path, Pequot Lakes, MN
New Year’s Eve at B*Merri Gastropub (Brainerd, MN)
Date: Wednesday, December 31, 2025
Details: Celebrate New Year’s Eve at B*Merri Gastropub Restaurant and Bar with a special 2026 NYE menu featuring crab cakes, steak and lobster, and tiramisu for two. Reservations are encouraged for this festive dinner experience as you ring in the New Year in style.
Reservations: Call 218-829-7507
Location: 19624 Co Rd 3, Brainerd, MN
New Year’s Eve Dinner at Riverside Tavern (Crosslake, MN)
Date & Time: December 31, 2025 • Dinner service during regular hours (reservations recommended)
Details: Ring in the New Year at Riverside Tavern with special New Year’s Eve dinner offerings. Featured options include Beef Wellington and a Steak & Lobster dinner with a 7 oz filet mignon and 6 oz lobster tail, served with sides. Select offerings also include crab bisque, crab & lobster cakes, and a shared carrot cake dessert. Call ahead for reservations.
Tickets: Dinner pricing varies by entrée.
Location: Riverside Tavern, 35322 County Rd 3, Crosslake, MN
Last Supper of 2025 at Bites Pub & Grub (Pine River, MN)
Date & Time: Wednesday, December 31, 2025 • 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Details: Wrap up 2025 with a special Last Supper of the Year at Bites Pub & Grub. New Year’s Eve dinner features include two lobster tails, prime rib & lobster, crab cakes with cilantro lime sauce, and a lobster tail + crab cake + sizzling shrimp combo. All dinners are served with two sides. Reservations are recommended.
Reservations: Call 218-587-2564
Location: 2793 State Hwy 371 SW, Pine River, MN
New Year’s Eve Mega Meat Raffle at Moonlite Bay (Cross Lake, MN)
Date & Time: Wednesday, December 31, 2025 • Starting at 4:00 PM
Details: Ring in the New Year at Moonlite Bay with a Mega Meat Raffle on New Year’s Eve. There’s $1,000 in meat up for grabs, plus pulltab races and extra prizes during the keychain drawing. Come early, grab a seat, and make an afternoon (and night) of it as the celebration builds toward midnight.
Location: Moonlite Bay Family Restaurant & Bar37627 County Road 66, Cross Lake, MN
Celebrate New Year’s Eve at the Crosslake Fifty Lakes American Legion Post 500 (Crosslake, MN)
Date & Time: Wednesday, December 31, 2025 • Activities begin at 4:00 PM
Details: Ring in the New Year at Crosslake Fifty Lakes American Legion Post 500 with a full lineup of New Year’s Eve fun. The evening kicks off with horse races at 4:00 PM, followed by a steak & bacon meat raffle at 5:00 PM. DJ Miranda Rightz takes over at 6:00 PM to keep the party going, and the night wraps up with a balloon drop and champagne popping at 9:00 PM. Come for one event or stay for them all.
Location: 35112 County Road 3, Cross Lake, MN
New Year’s Eve Dinner at Iron Range Eatery (Crosby, MN)
Date & Time: Wednesday, December 31, 2025 • New Year’s Eve Dinner Service
Details: Ring in the New Year with a special New Year’s Eve dinner menu at Iron Range Eatery. Celebrate the night with classic starters, hearty entrées, and indulgent desserts designed for a memorable end to 2025. Grab your favorite people, raise a glass, and let the Iron Range Eatery team handle the cooking while you toast to what’s ahead.
Location: 6 W Main Street, Crosby, MN
Reservations: Call 218-545-5444 to reserve your table
New Year’s Eve Dinner Special at Big Axe Brewing Company (Nisswa, MN)
Date & Time: Wednesday, December 31, 2025 • 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Details: Treat yourself to a relaxed and elevated New Year’s Eve dinner at Big Axe Brewing Company. Enjoy a three-course meal with full table service, featuring tomato lentil soup, roasted tri-tip steak with rosemary au gratin potatoes, sautéed asparagus, and chimichurri butter, finished with carrot cake with raisins and walnuts. Dinner is offered for $35, with reservations encouraged.
Reservations: Call 218-961-2337
Location: 25435 Main Street, Nisswa, MN
NYE Buffet & Comedy Show at Gather On 3 Event Center at The Woods (Brainerd, MN)
Date & Time: December 31, 2025
Doors open at 4:30 PM
Buffet at 5:00 PM
Comedy Show at 7:00 PM
Meet & Greet at 9:00 PM
Details: Celebrate New Year’s Eve with a full buffet dinner and a PG-13 comedy show at The Woods. Enjoy chef-inspired entrées, seasonal sides, fresh salads, and desserts before settling in for an evening of laughs. Tickets include the buffet, the comedy show, and a post-show meet & greet. Full bar available. Tickets are non-refundable but transferable.
Cost: $64.95 per person (assigned seating)
Location: 19654 County Rd 3, Brainerd, MN
New Year’s Eve Dinner Specials at Main Street Ale House (Nisswa, MN)
Date & Time: Wednesday, December 31, 2025 • Starting at 5:00 PM
Details: Celebrate New Year’s Eve with elevated dinner specials at Main Street Ale House. The night features Lobster Carbonara with bucatini pasta, lobster meat, peas, bacon, garlic cream sauce, and a sunny-side egg, along with a hearty bone-in beef short rib served with sweet potato purée and molasses demi-glace. A perfect option for a relaxed, upscale dinner before ringing in the New Year.
Location: Main Street Ale House25559 Main Street, Nisswa, MN
New Year’s Eve Prix Fixe Dinner at The Local 218 (Brainerd, MN)
Date & Time: December 31, 2025 • Evening seating (reservations required)
Details: Ring in the New Year at The Local 218 with an elegant five-course prix fixe dinner. The menu features a selection of elevated starters, appetizers, chef’s salad, indulgent entrées, and decadent desserts to close out the year in style. A perfect option for a special night out with a refined but welcoming hometown feel.
Cost: $85 per person
Reservations: Call 218-270-3195 to reserve your table
Location: The Local 218, 723 Mill Avenue, Brainerd, MN
New Year’s Eve Dinner at Bridge Tavern (Crosby, MN)
Date & Time: December 31, 2025 • 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Details: Finish 2025 with a special New Year’s Eve dinner at Bridge Tavern featuring a 12–14 oz Prime Rib served with your choice of crab, lobster, or shrimp. Each dinner includes your choice of potato, soup, or salad. A hearty, classic New Year’s Eve meal perfect for celebrating the final night of the year.
Cost: $45 per person
Location: Bridge Tavern, 26969 MN-6, Crosby, MN
New Year’s Eve Prime Rib Dinner at Oak Lawn Tavern (Brainerd, MN)
Date & Time: December 31, 2025 • 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Details: Celebrate New Year’s Eve at Oak Lawn Tavern with a classic Prime Rib Dinner. The meal includes a 12oz prime rib, baked potato, salad, dinner roll, and dessert. Guests can also enjoy a champagne toast at midnight. Reservations are recommended.
Tickets: $38.95 per person
Location: Oak Lawn Tavern, 15483 State Highway 18, Brainerd, MN
New Year’s Eve Dinner at The Classic Grill at Madden’s (Brainerd, MN)
Date & Time: December 31, 2025 • 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Details: Enjoy a classic New Year’s Eve dinner at The Classic Grill with a specially curated menu. The evening begins with a Bruschetta Crostini starter, followed by your choice of Lobster Bisque or Feta Strawberry Walnut salad. Entrée options include Ribeye Cap Steak, Pan-Fried Chilean Sea Bass, Hanger Steak & Lobster Tail, or Blackened Salmon & Shrimp Risotto. The night finishes with a Pistachio Espresso Croissant and a complimentary glass of champagne.
Cost: $75 per person
Reservation Required: Call 218-855-5921
Location: The Classic Grill at Madden’s, Brainerd, MN
New Year’s Eve Dinner at The Side Track (Brainerd, MN)
Date & Time: Wednesday, December 31, 2025 • Dinner special starts at 5:00 PM
Details: Ring in the New Year at The Side Track with a special New Year’s Eve dinner for $22.95 featuring short ribs with apricot wine sauce, butternut squash mash with brown sugar butter, broccoli and cauliflower sautéed with garlic and chardonnay, plus your choice of side salad or cup of soup. Enjoy a complimentary champagne toast at midnight to welcome 2026.
Location: 18071 State Hwy 371, Brainerd, MN
New Year’s Eve Dinner Specials at The Skillet (Brainerd, MN)
Date & Time: December 31, 2025 • 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Details: The Skillet will be open on New Year’s Eve serving a limited dinner menu featuring special entrées for the night. Options include grilled chicken Alfredo with garlic bread, onion butter sirloin, half rack of ribs, burgers with potato choices, and an oriental salad with garlic bread. A great spot for a relaxed New Year’s Eve dinner in downtown Brainerd.
Location: The Skillet, 123 Washington Street NE, Brainerd, MN
New Year's Eve Party at the Nisswa American Legion (Nisswa, MN)
Date & Time: December 31, 2025 | 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Details: Celebrate New Year’s Eve with the Nisswa American Legion. $30 Prime Rib Dinner including a show by Mitch Myers. (NO BINGO). Tom and Jerrys, first one is free.
Let’s GLOW Crazy NYE Party at Cuyuna Brewing Company (Crosby, MN)
Date & Time: December 31, 2025 • 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Details: Cuyuna Brewing is transforming the taproom into a full neon glow-in-the-dark party to ring in 2026. Expect blacklights, vibrant décor, glowing accessories, and high-energy party vibes all night. Free glow gear will be available while supplies last, and the bar will be serving specialty glow-in-the-dark drinks and radiant cocktails. Guests are encouraged to wear their brightest neon or glow attire to be part of the show.
Location: 1 E Main St, Crosby, MN
New Year’s Eve Surf & Turf Special at Dunmire’s Bar & Grill (Brainerd, MN)
Date & Time: Wednesday, December 31, 2025 • New Year’s Eve (evening service)
Details: Celebrate New Year’s Eve at Dunmire’s Bar & Grill with a classic Surf & Turf special for $49.99. The featured entrée includes baked stuffed walleye with lobster cream sauce, stuffed with shrimp and scalloped mousse — a perfect upscale option to close out the year with a great meal.
Location: 12110 State Highway 210, Brainerd, MN
Phone: 218-454-0625
New Year’s Eve at the Brainerd Eagles (Brainerd, MN)
Date & Time: Wednesday, December 31, 2025 • Kitchen opens at 5:00 PM • Live music at 8:00 PM
Details: Celebrate New Year’s Eve at Brainerd Eagles with a laid-back, no-frills night of great food and live music. This year’s special dinner includes a hot beef sandwich, hot turkey sandwich, or lasagna with salad for just $12. Meals are served from 5:30–7:30 PM (or until gone), with half orders available. No reservations needed. Stick around as Hillbilly Rock takes the stage at 8:00 PM to keep the party rolling into the night.
Location: 124 Front Street, Brainerd, MN 56401
New Year’s Eve at The Wharf (Crosslake, MN)
Date & Time: Wednesday, December 31, 2025 • Evening service
Details: Ring in the New Year at The Wharf with an elevated New Year’s Eve menu designed for lingering, celebrating, and toasting to what’s ahead. Expect a refined dinner experience featuring seafood favorites, prime cuts, and decadent desserts — the kind of night that doesn’t rush midnight.
Menu highlights include crab stuffed shrimp, fresh oysters, prime rib, blackened swordfish, and house-made desserts. Full NYE menu available to view — swipe or check the post for details.
Location: 12986 County Road 16, Cross Lake, MN
An Elevated New Year’s Eve at Ox Lake Tavern (Crosslake, MN)
Date & Time: Wednesday, December 31, 2025 • Evening Celebration
Details: Ring in the New Year with an elevated NYE experience at Ox Lake Tavern. Expect craft cocktails, indulgent dishes, and a celebratory atmosphere built for toasting the year ahead. Highlights include Million Dollar Martinis, caviar bellinis, Wagyu sliders, Surf & Turf, braised short rib, miso black cod, and a strong finish with espresso martinis and tiramisu.
Location: 38136 County Highway 66, Crosslake, MN
New Year’s Eve Dinner at Maucieri’s Italian Bistro (Crosslake, MN)
Date & Time: Wednesday, December 31, 2025 • Dinner service throughout the evening
Details: Celebrate New Year’s Eve with an elevated dinner experience at Maucieri’s Italian Bistro. Enjoy special holiday menu offerings featuring crispy risotto balls, baked brie with fig jam, slow-roasted prime rib, scallops & shrimp over creamy risotto, and the fan-favorite Marry Me Chicken. A perfect spot for a relaxed, delicious way to toast the New Year. Reservations are highly recommended as tables are filling fast.
Location: 34650 County Road 3, Crosslake, MN
New Year’s Eve at The Commander Restaurant & Bar (Breezy Point, MN)
Date & Time: December 31, 2025 | Dinner specials start at 5:00 PM • Live music 8:30 PM – 12:30 AM
Details: Ring in the New Year at The Commander with New Year’s Eve dinner specials and live music. Dinner options include Steak & Lobster or Prime Rib, each served with your choice of potato and soup or salad. Complimentary New Year’s Eve party favors will be available, and live music by Ponzi Scheme will keep the celebration going late into the night. No reservations—come early to grab a table.
Location: The Commander Restaurant & Bar, 30279 Airport Rd, Breezy Point, MN
New Year’s Eve at Lost Lake Lodge (Lake Shore, MN)
Date & Time: December 31, 2025 • Live music 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Details: Ring in the New Year at Lost Lake Lodge with a cozy and unforgettable New Year’s Eve celebration. Enjoy live music by Ted Feyder from 5:30–8:30 PM, a special three-course dinner for $55 per person, and an early ball drop at 8:00 PM — perfect for celebrating without a late night. Reservations are limited, so call ahead to secure your table.
Reservations: Call (218) 963-2681
Location: 7965 Lost Lake Rd, Lake Shore, MN
Laugh Your Way Into the New Year at Green Lantern Bar & Grill (Brainerd, MN)
Date & Time: Wednesday, December 31, 2025 • 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Details: Ring in the New Year with dinner and a comedy show at Green Lantern Bar & Grill. The $50 per person ticket includes both the meal and the show. Dinner is served at 6:00 PM, featuring beef tenderloin, shrimp scampi, cheesy potatoes, vegetables, salad, and dessert. The comedy show kicks off at 7:30 PM, making this a full evening of great food and laughs to close out the year.
Location: 19121 State Highway 18, Brainerd, MN
New Year’s Eve Buffet at Marina II at Breezy Point Resort (Breezy Point, MN)
Date & Time: December 31, 2025 • 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Details: Ring in the New Year at Breezy Point Resort with a festive New Year’s Eve buffet at Marina II. Enjoy a chef-curated spread featuring salads, a poached seafood display, lobster bisque, assorted breads, and entrée selections including locally sourced Wagyu beef tri-tip, grilled mahi mahi Florentine, pork roulade, smoked chicken pot pie, and Asian short ribs over fried rice. Sides include Yukon gold mashed potatoes and honey-roasted heirloom carrots, with assorted festive desserts to finish the evening. Reservations are required.
NYE BOGO Lodging Special: Stay longer and celebrate more with Breezy Point’s NYE BOGO — book one night and get the second night FREE (valid Dec 30–Jan 1). Includes buffet breakfast each morning and is valid for any unit, including cabins. Call 218-562-7970 to book.
Costs: Adults: $52Kids (Ages 4–12): $25
Location: Marina II, Breezy Point Resort, Breezy Point, MN
Reservations: Available via OpenTable or call 218-562-7161
High Stakes Bingo on New Year’s Eve at Ernie’s on Gull (East Gull Lake, MN)
Date & Time: December 31, 2025 • Bingo starts at 6:00 PM
Details: Ring in New Year’s Eve with High Stakes Bingo at Ernie’s on Gull. The night features a $100 buy-in for 10 rounds of bingo, with $500 payouts per round and $1,000 payouts on rounds 5 and 10. A special Surf & Turf feature will also be available, including an 8oz tenderloin, crab legs, au gratin potatoes, and roasted broccolini for $49.
Cost: $100 buy-in (for bingo) | Dinner: $49
Location: Ernie’s on Gull, 10424 Gull Point Rd, East Gull Lake, MN
Music Bingo on New Year’s Eve at Cana Wine Bar (Crosby, MN)
Date & Time: December 31, 2025 • 6:00 PM
Details: Ring in New Year’s Eve with Music Bingo at Cana Wine Bar. Grab your friends and enjoy a fun night of music, prizes, and great wine in a festive atmosphere. An easy, upbeat way to celebrate the final night of the year without staying out too late.
Location: Cana Wine Bar, 64 1st Ave SW, Crosby, MN
New Year’s Eve (But Make It Early) at Jack Pine Brewery (Baxter, MN)
Date & Time: December 31, 2025 • 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Details: Jack Pine Brewery is ringing in the new year the Minnesotan way — early. The taproom will be fully decorated for the celebration with noisemakers, party vibes, and plenty of festive flair. They’ll be dropping the ball at 8 PM sharp, so you can toast early and still be home in time to relax, get the kids to bed, or fold a load of laundry. Grab a pint, bring some friends, and enjoy a fun, low-pressure way to welcome 2026 without staying out late.
Location: 15593 Edgewood Dr, Baxter, MN 56425
New Year’s Eve Roundhouse Retirement Party at Roundhouse Brewery (Nisswa, MN)
Date & Time: December 31, 2025 | All Day
Details: Roundhouse Brewery is hosting an all-day New Year’s Eve retirement party to celebrate and send off the brewery in style. Enjoy trivia questions throughout the day with prizes for winners, BOGO crowlers all day long, and $2 off your first beer if you show up wearing Roundhouse gear. Live music from Tail Gunners will take place from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Stop in to enjoy one last Roundhouse brew and share memories from the years past.
Location: Roundhouse Brewery, Nisswa, MN
End the Year Smoking Desk Session at The Blue Oyster (Brainerd, MN)
Date & Time: Wednesday, December 31, 2025, 6:30 PM
Live music starts at 7:00 PM
Details: Close out the year with live music by The Smoking Desk at The Blue Oyster. Grab some food, enjoy a drink, and ring in the New Year with a laid-back downtown session.
Location: 612 Front Street, Brainerd, MN
One Last Mic Drop Before 2026 at Spalding House (Crosby, MN)
Date & Time: Wednesday, December 31, 2025 • 7:00 PM – 2:00 AM
Details: Ring in the New Year at Spalding House with a high-energy night of karaoke, sparkle, and countdown chaos. Karaoke runs from 8:00 PM to midnight, followed by a midnight toast to welcome 2026. Dress code? Sequins or sweatpants — bring your vibe, your voice, and your best mic-drop moment.
Location: 1 W Main Street, Crosby, MN
New Year’s Eve Karaoke Party at 14 Lakes Pub & Brewery (Crosslake, MN)
Date & Time: Wednesday, December 31, 2025 • Open at 2:00 PM • Karaoke 7:00–10:00 PM
Details: Ring in the New Year at 14 Lakes Pub & Brewery with an upbeat New Year’s Eve karaoke party. Grab the mic, sing your heart out, and celebrate with friends while enjoying drink specials all day. Great beer, great music, and a fun crowd make this an easy choice to welcome the New Year.
Location: 36846 County Road 66, Cross Lake, MN
Wednesday Night Karaoke Party – O’Neary’s Irish Pub (Brainerd, MN)
Date & Time: December 31, 2025 • 8:00 PM – 12:45 AM
Details: Ring in the New Year with a fun and lively karaoke night hosted by DJ Chaz. Sing your favorites, celebrate with friends, and welcome 2026 with a midnight champagne toast. Online song selection is available through KaraFun, making it easy to queue up your next song.
Location: 305 South 7th Street, Brainerd, MN 56401
New Year’s Eve Neon Party at The Damsite (Pine River, MN)
Date & Time: Wednesday, December 31, 2025 • Party starts at 8:00 PM
Details: Ring in the New Year at The Damsite with a high-energy neon glow party featuring a live DJ and a vibrant dance floor overlooking the water. Celebrate in style with festive lighting, music all night, and New Year’s Eve dinner specials including Steak & Shrimp and Seafood Alfredo Pasta. Come early for dinner, stay late for the party, and glow your way into the New Year.
Location: 417 Barclay Ave, Pine River, MN
New Year’s Eve with King’s Ransom at Ye Old Pickle Factory (Nisswa, MN)
Date & Time: Wednesday, December 31, 2025 | 8:00 PM – Midnight
Details: Close out the year at Ye Old Pickle Factory with live music from King’s Ransom. Expect a high-energy mix of country favorites and classic rock hits leading right up to midnight. Grab a drink, sing along, and join the countdown with friends in one of downtown Nisswa’s favorite New Year’s Eve spots.
Location: 25534 Murray St, Nisswa, MN
New Year’s Eve & 8-Year Anniversary Party at The Parlor (Brainerd, MN)
Date & Time: Wednesday, December 31, 2025 • Starts at 8:00 PM
Details: Ring in the New Year while celebrating 8 years of The Parlor. The Parlor envelope game runs from 8:00 PM until midnight—each round purchased earns a ticket, with the game kicking off right after the ball drops. Cash prizes total $2,026, plus bar tabs and promo bags. Drink and shot specials all night, including $3 Parlor beer and seltzers, with THC on tap.
Tickets: Envelope game tickets available starting at 8:00 PM.
Location: The Parlor, 714 Laurel St, Brainerd, MN
Live Music – David Lee & Surf'n'Turf Dinner at Quarterdeck Resort (Nisswa, MN)
Date & Time: December 31, 2025 • 8:30 PM – 12:30 AM
Details: Quarterdeck Resort is celebrating New Year’s Eve with live music from the talented David Lee. Enjoy an evening on the shores of Gull Lake with great music, a relaxed atmosphere, and a cozy Northwoods setting as you welcome 2026. Meal: Surf'n'Turf, Cost: $30.00 Per Person.
Location: Quarterdeck Resort, Nisswa, MN
New Year’s Eve at CC’s Bar (Brainerd, MN)
Date & Time: December 31, 2025 • DJ 8:30 PM – 12:30 AM
Details: Celebrate New Year’s Eve at CC’s Bar with a DJ spinning all night, hourly drawings for CC’s merchandise, gift certificates, and swag, plus a complimentary champagne toast at midnight. The back room will be open for bags and beer pong, making it an easy, all-around fun way to ring in 2026.
Location: CC’s Bar, 121 NE Washington St, Brainerd, MN
New Year’s Eve at The North Star (Breezy Point, MN)
Date & Time: December 31, 2025 • 9:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Details: Ring in the New Year at The North Star with half off all appetizers and drinks from 9:00 PM to midnight. A laid-back, fun way to toast to 2026 with great food, drinks, and local vibes.
Location: 30898 Ranchette Drive, Breezy Point, MN
NYE PJ Party at Zorbaz on Gull Lake (Lake Shore, MN)
Date & Time: Wednesday, December 31, 2025 • 9:00 PM – 2:00 AM
Details: Ring in the New Year pajama-style at Zorbaz Gull Lake. Wear your comfiest PJs and party into 2026 with breakfast sliders, a champagne toast at midnight, and a free champagne fountain. Drink specials include $2 off Tito’s, $4 Coors/Busch/Miller taps, and plenty of Up North energy to keep the night rolling until 2 AM.
Location: 8105 Lost Lake Road, Lake Shore, MN
New Year’s Eve at Dockside Lounge at Breezy Point Resort (Breezy Point, MN)
Date & Time: Wednesday, December 31, 2025 | Live music starting at 9:00 PM | Champagne toast at midnight
Details: Ring in the New Year lakeside at Dockside Lounge inside Breezy Point Resort. Enjoy live music starting at 9 PM, a festive atmosphere, and a champagne toast as the clock strikes midnight.
Location: 9252 Breezy Point Dr, Breezy Point, MN
New Year's Day
Events, Dinners, & Parties:
New Year’s Day at The North Star (Breezy Point, MN)
Date & Time: January 1, 2026
Details: Start the New Year with a Brunch Buffet from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, followed by a special menu available from 1:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Stick around for the New Year’s Day meat raffle running from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM.
Location: 30898 Ranchette Drive, Breezy Point, MN
New Year’s Day Brunch at Passport Brainerd (Brainerd, MN)
Date & Time: Thursday, January 1, 2026 • 9:00 AM – Noon
Details: Start 2026 the right way with New Year’s Day Brunch at Passport. Doors open at 9 AM with $10 breakfast plates. It’s the perfect post-celebration reset—come grab a seat, fuel up, and ease into the new year.
Location: 606 Laurel Street, Brainerd, MN
New Year’s Day Bloody Bar at Zorbaz on Gull Lake (Lake Shore, MN)
Date & Time: Thursday, January 1, 2026 • Open at 9:00 AM Bloody Bar: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Details: Start 2026 the Zorbaz way at Zorbaz Gull Lake with the biggest Bloody Bar around. The day kicks off with a $28 double-shot Tito’s Bloody (includes a complimentary Zorbaz cup) and $20 bottomless mimosas. Perfect for easing into the New Year with friends, food, and a little hair-of-the-dog fun.
Location: 8105 Lost Lake Road, Lake Shore, MN
New Year’s Day Celebration at Pine River American Legion Post 613 (Pine River, MN)
Date & Time: January 1, 2026 • Doors open at 12:00 PM
Details: Celebrate New Year’s Day at Pine River American Legion Post 613 with a full afternoon of fun. Enjoy free Tom & Jerry’s from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM, served by Al Carter’s girls, followed by a meat raffle at 3:00 PM. A potluck will be available, and Legion members qualify for a raffle drawing. The event is open to the public and promises a relaxed, fun-filled way to kick off 2026.
Location: Pine River American Legion Post 613, Pine River, MN
New Year’s Day at the Brainerd Eagles (Brainerd, MN)
Date & Time: Thursday, January 1, 2026 • Events start at 2:00 PM
Details: Keep the celebration going on New Year’s Day at Brainerd Eagles with a full afternoon and evening lineup. Enjoy Tom & Jerry’s from 2:00–4:00 PM (free for members, $10 for guests), followed by live music from Hillbilly Rock Show from 2:00–6:00 PM. Burgers are served at 5:00 PM, and Bingo kicks off at 6:00 PM. Not a member? They’ll get you signed up.
Location: 124 Front Street, Brainerd, MN 56401
Notes: Membership card required for free Tom & Jerry’s • Guests welcome
New Year’s Day Celebration at American Legion Brainerd Post 255 (Brainerd, MN)
Date & Time: January 1, 2026 • Open at 10:00 AM
Details: Kick off the New Year at American Legion Brainerd Post 255 with a full morning of fun. Enjoy live music from Todd Swedberg from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, a New Year’s Day meat raffle starting at 11:00 AM, and food available from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM featuring chicken strips, burgers, and chicken BLT salad. Current members can enjoy free Tom & Jerry’s starting at 11:00 AM while supplies last.
Location: American Legion Brainerd Post 255, 708 Front Street, Brainerd, MN
Make your New Year's Eve memorable in the Nisswa and Brainerd Lakes Area! Check out these fantastic events and welcome 2026 in style. Cheers to a spectacular year ahead!
Safety Reminder: Ensure a joyous and safe New Year's Eve celebration by planning ahead for designated drivers, rideshare services, or public transportation. Prioritize the well-being of yourself and others by making responsible choices to ring in the new year with both joy and safety in mind.
*All dates and activities are subject to change.
**Please check the operating hours and availability of the mentioned places before your visit.