December 31, 2011

DOWNTOWN LUDINGTON "LIGHTS UP THE LAKE"
Can't be in Times Square for New Year's Eve? No problem--Ludington has their own Lighted Ball Drop in downtown Ludington at midnight, designed and made by local residents. It's all part of downtown Ludington's Light Up the Lake event. This is the third year for the ball drop...last year's event brought 5,000 people to downtown Ludington.

JOIN THE NEW YEAR'S EVE FUN!
It's a one of a kind event...and it actually begins New Year's Eve Day, with the Resolution Run 5K race starting at 9am from O.J. DeJonge Middle School. Cost for early registration is $20, or $25 the day of the race. Evening activities begin at 9:30pm at the North James Street Plaza in the heart of downtown Ludington. There will be an entertainment tent, music, fireworks, and commemorative light-up glasses. The cups are available for $8 each, and may be purchased ahead of time at Ludington City Hall or many downtown businesses. Pre-purchase packages are also available. $15 includes glass and three drink tokens--$25 includes two glasses and six drink tokens. If you purchase a package that night, $15 buys you a glass and two drink tokens--$25 includes two glasses and four drink tokens. Be sure to check our Coupons Page and our Travel Specials Page for discounts and specials offered by Ludington area merchants and lodging facilities. If you are visiting Ludington from out of town, check our Lodging Category for a list of hotels, motels, inns, and other places to stay. Happy New Year!!

FAMILIES CAN ENJOY NEW YEARS EVE TOGETHER
There are two family-oriented parties scheduled on New Year' Eve. The first one will be at Sandcastles Children's Museum from 6pm-9pm. The other one is being held at the Ludington Library from 8pm-11:30pm...where there will be video games, board games, puzzles, carnival games, crafts, toys...plus hot chocolate, cookies and popcorn. Plus, the library will be giving away light-up goods to enjoy at the Ball Drop. The Mayor's Youth Advisory Council Teen New Year's Eve Bash will be held at the Ludington Area Center for the Arts from 9pm-11:45pm. High school students only, with a $5 admission.

WATCH THE BALL DROP, ENJOY FESTIVE SMALL TOWN CHARM
The Ludington New Year's Eve ball is six feet, five inches in diameter and is lit by 6,000 LED lights. It is believed to be the biggest ball in Michigan. Employees of GLC Metal Fabricators and Harsco were responsible for making the ball, and Tye Signs did the lights. There are four different color lights which blink as it's lowered.

LUDINGTON RESTAURANTS, PUBS, AND RETAIL SHOPS ARE OPEN
On Saturday, December 31, numerous downtown businesses are offering great sales from 10am-6pm. And some of Ludington's favorite downtown restaurants are having two seatings, with dinner specials for two. Whether you want to wander through our art galleries, browse our specialty stores, or enjoy food and drink at a local restaurant or pub, Ludington welcomes you to come in out of the weather! The festive atmosphere of our northern New Year's Eve is filled with small town friendliness and local charm. You'll feel so enchanted, we bet you will come back year after year. Being up north in Ludington is great even in the winter! Follow these links for additional information about Ludington Restaurants and Ludington Specialty Shops.