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The year of Intergalactic Snowdown, a partial eclipse of the sun and crazy bear activity is coming to a close. Whether you're sad to see the good times end or the new year can't get here fast enough, Durango's got your back with just enough options for commiseration and/or celebration. Whatever you get into this last gasp of the holiday season, make sure you Auld Lang Syne responsibly.
Purgatory Resort
If you're looking at the calendar, wondering where all of the New Year's Eve events are this year, look no farther than 25-miles north of Durango at Purgatory Resort. Beyond welcoming skiers to explore new runs on the front and backside of the mountain this season, Purg has a fabulous selection of festivities to choose from that are sure to cater to different palates (and wallets):
New Year's Eve Buffet Dinner: Book the family for a delightful buffet dinner served at Hoody's, featuring carving stations, desserts and a build-your-own-hot-chocolate bar. Choose from three seating times: 5:00 p.m., 7:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. Tickets $59/Adults; $22/Children ages 12 and younger. Reserve today by calling 800.525.0892.
Best Event For: Hungry families, big groups and hot chocolate aficionados.
Pizza & NYC Festivities at Paradise Pizzeria: If you're looking for a relaxed evening indulging in freshly-baked artisan pizza and specials on pitchers of beer and margaritas, Paradise is calling. While you dine, enjoy watching the madness of Big Apple pomp and circumstance on the big screen, happy you're tucked away in the San Juan Mountains. Two seatings: 5:00 p.m. & 7:00 p.m. (open seating starts at 9:00 p.m.). Call 970.385.2134 for reservations.
Best Event For: Anyone who can't wait to see which celebrity makes a fool out of themselves this year.
Snowcat Dinner at the Powderhouse: Elegance awaits at the Powderhouse. Enjoy a Snowcat ride through a winter wonderland, hopefully as flakes fall softly on your nice party clothes. Sip champagne as you take in the view from the coziness of the Powderhouse before settling in with new and old friends over a five-course dinner paired with wine. Snowcat departs at 7:00 p.m. from the base area after the fireworks and returns by 10:30 p.m. $375/adults only. Treat yourself: 800.525.0892.
Best Event For: Parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles and young professionals eager for a special night out.
Kids Night Out at the Den: If you just started drooling over the thought of a five-course meal alone with your significant other but are worried about what to do with the youngsters, here's the answer to your prayers. Drop the kiddos off at 5:30 p.m. and don't worry about picking them up till 10:30 p.m. They won't even miss you while they're busy with their own dinner, followed by arts, crafts, games, movies, snacks and safe, interactive fun with Miss Heidi and her experienced staff. Kids ages 2 months to 10 years old welcome. $30/child. Call 970.385.2144 to reserve.
Best Event For: Kids. Duh.
Fireworks and Torchlight Parade: Kick it at the Beach while a Purg classic wows and impresses young and old alike. Purg's talented team of ski school instructors take to the slopes bearing torchlights from 6:00 p.m. till 6:30 p.m., when the fireworks begin...
Best Event For: Pyromaniacs and oohs-and-ahhs-ers.
Night Rail Jam: After the fireworks, turn your gaze back to the slopes where the DC terrain park is lit up for a spectacle of skilled shredders. If you think you've got the skillz to pay the billz, register at the Burton shop in the Plaza by 5:00 p.m. Entry fee is $20.
New Year’s Eve Party: So you're looking for the late-night NYE party at a family-friendly resort? Bring your grooves and positive mental attitude to Purgy's, where a limited bar menu will be available till 11:00 p.m. Local's favorite bluegrass band, The Outskirts, keeps spirits high till way past your bedtime with things winding down around 1:00 a.m.
Best Event For: Singles-ready-to-mingle, parents itching to get down and not-so-eager skiers.
Animas City Theatre
Fort Knox Five with Posh Josh & DJ Mateo: If you're back in town looking for the party, head to the Animas City Theatre for some funk, glitchhop, R&B, reggae and more house music then you've probably heard in a while. Don't forget to dress in your finest disco clothes. The show starts at 9:30 p.m. and ends around 1:30 a.m. Tickets are on sale now at ACT or Southwest Sounds. $30-$35.
Best Event For: Hipsters and anyone eager to wear bell-bottoms and afro wigs.
Wild Horse Saloon
High Rollers Live: If you're wondering where Durango's favorite live country rock band is ringing in the new year, look no further than the Wild Horse Saloon. The boys will be sharing their electric talent with boot-scootin' boogiers and two-steppers alike from 8:30 p.m. till 12:30 a.m. Contact buckinfo@gmail.com for more information.
Best Event For: Movers, shakers and boot-wearin' smile-makers.
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
New Year's Day Brunch Train: After all of that activity, doesn't it sound nice to just sit back and let someone else do the cooking on New Year's Day? The train certainly thinks so and invites you to settle in for a ride through the snow-laden Animas Valley to Cascade Wye as you indulge in a hot brunch buffet that includes a glass of champagne and delicacies, like cheddar grits, Belgian Liege Caramelized Waffles and more. Monday, January 1, 2018, 9:45 a.m. till 2:45 p.m. Standard class available, too, for $65 ($39/Children). Premium seating (brunch included): $169 (21+ only). Call 877.872.4607 to book.
