New Year's Eve in Prescott

Ring in the new year at the signature countdown in the heart of historic downtown. An illuminated cowboy boot drops above Whiskey Row with two celebrations - an earlier family-friendly countdown and the traditional midnight countdown surrounded by live music, food vendors, festive lighting, and fireworks.

Location: Montezuma Street (Whiskey Row) & Courthouse Plaza
Countdowns: Early evening & midnight
Festivities: Live music, vendors, food trucks, community celebration
Atmosphere: Lively, walkable, great for photos and group meet-ups

More New Year’s Eve Events & Nightlife

Live Music on Whiskey Row

Historic saloons and bars along Whiskey Row commonly host special NYE sets with bands and DJs, plus seasonal cocktails and late-night menus.

Classic saloon vibes and dancing
Walkable from Courthouse Plaza
Great after the early countdown

Theatre & Concert Celebrations

Look for special New Year’s Eve concerts or variety shows, often with a late toast. A festive option if you prefer a seated performance before heading to the plaza.

Reserved seating and indoor comfort
Ideal for couples’ night out
Easy to combine with the Boot Drop

Prescott Valley Countdown & Fireworks

Nearby Prescott Valley often hosts a family-friendly celebration with outdoor entertainment and a midnight fireworks display—great for those staying east of downtown.

Plenty of parking and open space
Fun add-on for groups and families
Short drive from downtown Prescott

NYE Dinners & Chef’s Menus

Many local restaurants offer prix-fixe or celebratory menus. Book early for prime times, then stroll to the plaza for the countdown.

Romantic date-night option
Group tables for friends and family
Walkable from downtown hotels

Bar Crawls & Lounge Parties

Hop between pubs, wine bars, and lounges for varied music and atmospheres. Designate a driver or use rideshare for a smooth night.

Casual, social, and festive
Mix of craft beer and cocktails
Perfect after the early countdown

Skate & Celebrate

Seasonal ice-skating rinks and winter pop-ups may operate through the holidays—fun for families before the evening festivities.

Kid-approved pre-party activity
Warm drinks nearby
Photo-worthy winter ambiance

Family-Friendly Things to Do on New Year’s Eve

Before the Countdown

Walk the holiday lights at Courthouse Plaza for photos and hot cocoa.
Grab an early dinner at a family-friendly spot downtown.
Let kids choose a treat (cookies or cocoa) as a pre-countdown tradition.
Catch an early live-music set or a short performance indoors.
Opt for the early countdown so little ones still get to celebrate.

Quiet & Creative Options

Create a family time capsule or gratitude list for the new year.
Do a short sunset stroll at Watson Lake or Acker Park.
Play board games or a hotel-room pajama party after the early drop.
Toast with sparkling cider and set family intentions for the year ahead.

New Year’s Day in Prescott

Outdoor Adventures

Hike Thumb Butte for sweeping views to start the year strong.
Walk the shoreline trails at Watson or Willow Lake for easy scenery.
Explore the Peavine Trail for a mellow family ride or stroll.
Pack layers—mornings can be crisp in the high desert.

Brunch & Browsing

Enjoy brunch at a local café and warm up with fresh coffee.
Stroll downtown boutiques and antique shops for post-holiday finds.
Visit galleries for Western art, crafts, and local makers.
Relax by a fireplace at a historic inn or lodge.

Tips for a Smooth Night

Arrive early — downtown parking near Whiskey Row fills quickly.
Dress in warm layers — temperatures drop sharply after sunset.
Book dinner and lodging in advance for the best availability.
Use rideshare or a designated driver if you plan to bar-hop.
Bring a small flashlight for the walk back to your car or hotel.
Plan your photos at Courthouse Plaza before the crowds peak.
Pick a clear meeting spot (like a statue or corner) to regroup easily.
Keep cash on hand for small vendors and snack stands.
Family tip: Attend the early countdown so kids can celebrate too!

Prescott Resort & Conference Center

Discover the area’s only full-service resort when searching for hotels in Prescott, AZ. Resting on the “Top of the Rock” offering picturesque views of the warmth and scenery of Prescott, the Prescott Resort and Conference Center is the choice hotel for those seeking a luxurious getaway in … More

WHAT GUESTS LIKE ABOUT THIS PLACE »

Learn More

7.6
604 reviews

Hotel St. Michael

Western hospitality with historic ambiance, comfortable lodging and modern amenities.

WHAT GUESTS LIKE ABOUT THIS PLACE »

Learn More

9
875 reviews

Hassayampa Inn

A beautifully restored 1927 boutique hotel set in the heart of the Prescott, AZ downtown historic district. Every inch of our hotel exudes classic character and charm. From the hand-painted lobby ceiling and dramatic wall murals to the quirky vintage elevator and etched glass and embossed copper panels, the Hassayampa Inn transports you back to the “roaring twenties” with its Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and Italianate features. This “living museum” is where some of history’s most noteworthy celebrities used to come to unwind, including Will Rogers, Greta Garbo, Clark Gable and Steve McQueen.