New Year’s Eve Celebrations in Northern Michigan
As the clock winds down on 2024, Northern Michigan knows how to celebrate in style! From glowing cherries and turtles to anchors and ball drops, each celebration brings its own unique flair. Whether you’re looking for family fun, a romantic night out, or an unforgettable party with friends, these events have you covered. Here’s a guide to four can’t-miss New Year’s Eve celebrations in Northern Michigan to ring in 2025:
Marquette New Year’s Eve Ball Drop
Kick off 2025 with a bang in downtown Marquette! Hosted by Double Trouble Entertainment, this annual event is a local favorite, drawing hundreds of attendees.
- What to Expect: A live countdown, music, laser lights, and dancing under the winter night sky.
- When: December 31, 2024, from 11:45 PM to 1 AM
- Where: 100 Block of W. Washington Street, Marquette, MI
- Admission: Free
- Directions: Google Maps
- More Info: Downtown Marquette Events
Great Turtle Drop on Mackinac Island
Celebrate the New Year Mackinac-style with the whimsical Great Turtle Drop! Watch as “Norton,” the giant illuminated turtle, is lowered from the Lilac Tree Hotel, symbolizing the countdown to midnight.
- What to Expect: A quirky, island-inspired celebration complete with cheers, laughter, and a glowing turtle.
- When: December 31, 2024, at 11:50 PM
- Where: Downtown Mackinac Island, Lilac Tree Suites (7372 Main St., Mackinac Island, MI)
- Admission: Free
- Directions: Google Maps
- More Info: Mackinac Island Event Calendar
CherryT Ball Drop in Traverse City
Celebrate in the “Cherry Capital of the World” with the iconic CherryT Ball Drop! A glowing cherry will descend onto Front Street, lighting up Traverse City as 2025 begins.
- What to Expect: Family-friendly festivities, live music, and the option to join virtually on Facebook. Donations benefit local charities.
- When: December 31, 2024, from 10 PM to just after midnight
- Where: Downtown Traverse City, Front and Cass Streets
- Admission: Suggested $5 donation per person
- Directions: Google Maps
- More Info: The Festival Foundation
Anchor Drop at the Soo
Welcome 2025 in Sault Ste. Marie with not one, but two anchor drops! Sponsored by Soo Co-op Credit Union and the Sault Convention and Visitors Bureau, this event has something for everyone.
- What to Expect:
- Family Fun: Storytelling, crafts, and children’s activities from 6 PM to 8 PM.
- Adult Festivities: Beer tent, warming stations, and a .5K “marathon” at 11:30 PM leading up to the midnight anchor drop.
- When:
- Children’s Anchor Drop: 8 PM
- Midnight Anchor Drop: 12 AM
- Where: Near the corner of Ashmun and Portage Avenue, Sault Ste. Marie, MI
- Admission: Free
- Directions: Google Maps
- More Info: Sault Ste. Marie Events
Please note: While it’s presumed the celebration in the Soo will occur, I was unable to confirm with the Sault Convention and Visitors Bureau by press time whether the Anchor Drop is happening this year. However, social media and local businesses in the Soo area indicate that it is likely to proceed as usual.
Goodbye 2024, Hello 2025!
No matter which event you choose, Northern Michigan promises a New Year’s Eve to remember. Whether you’re counting down under a glowing cherry, turtle, anchor, or shimmering ball, the energy is infectious, and the memories will last a lifetime. Bundle up, grab your friends or family, and let’s welcome 2025 with joy, laughter, and celebration!
