Forksful of cool New Year’s Eve to-dos
Ready for one epic auld lang syne? Pop the confetti, cue the countdown…it’s almost time to ring in 2026 with your friends in Greater Grand Forks!
CHILL IN THE BEST WAY
Grand Forks and East Grand Forks are cooler than you think—literally and figuratively. Together, our two towns transform winter into a playground of endless fun. Imagine lacing up your skates and channeling your inner Connor McDavid or Michelle Kwan at one of the Park Districts’ open skating sessions. If you’d rather glide through circle eights under twinkling lights, the Town Square Ice Rink is the perfect stage, glowing with festive charm. For those craving adventure, the scenic Greenway Trail System invites you to explore cross-country skiing, winter cycling and sledding along its snowy paths. And when the chill catches up with you, cozy up with a warm drink at local favorites like The Ember, Sweetwaters, Urban Stampede or Bully Brew. The fun doesn’t stop there because Downtown shopping adds its own sparkle to the season. Browse unique finds at The Silo Boutique, RH Standard, Pretty b., See Dick Run, Badman Design, Widman’s Candy and so many more. Whether skating, sipping or shopping, Greater Grand Forks offers a winter experience that’s vibrant, welcoming and way cooler than you ever imagined.
WHERE EXCITEMENT NEVER GROWS COLD
When temps are a little below ideal, Forks has plenty of ways to keep the fun rolling indoors. Start with a strike (or at least a few laughs) at Red Ray Lanes, where bowling is the perfect cure for cabin fever. If the kids are craving splash time, dive into our water parks. Choice Health & Fitness offers not only a pool but also basketball, racquetball, tennis, pickleball courts, fitness classes and a Kids Zone interactive play area that are all open from 5 AM to 8 PM. For bigger waves, head to Canad Inns’ Splashers of the South Seas. The region’s largest indoor water park comes complete with a bustling arcade, piping hot pizza and snacks to refuel after the fun. Step into the lobby of Canad Inns for nonstop fun—kids can jump in the bounce house, everyone can show off their moves on the dance floor, a family-friendly DJ will keep the energy high and the night caps off with a spectacular balloon drop at 10 PM. Want to celebrate before the calendar flips? Northern Air Action Park may be closed on New Year’s Eve and Day but you can party early with trampolines, laser tag, a 30+ game arcade, Hologate Virtual Reality and their premier indoor karting track. If your idea of the perfect night out is sinking into a cozy heated recliner, munching on buttery popcorn and catching the hottest new blockbuster on the big screen, then River Cinema 15 is the place to be. From premieres to fan favorites, this premier spot turns movie night into an Oscar worthy experience. And when the evening arrives, bundle up for a magical drive through Lincoln Park, where the annual Lions Christmas in the Park light display sparkles between 5:30 PM and midnight.
TWENTY-ONE PLUS FUN
Party hardy crew, this one’s for you! Southgate is throwing a rockin’ New Year’s Eve bash where DJ Mike will keep the dance floor alive from 9:30 PM to 12:30 AM. Pair the beats with fabulous food and drink specials and that surely equals a night to remember. If you’re craving high‑energy vibes and an epic twelve o’clock balloon drop, Playmakers is the place to be. Starting around 8 PM and lasting all the way till 1 AM, Tony from Paradise Productions will be spinning nonstop tracks while Playmakers’ expert mixologists craft the perfect cocktails. Prefer to laugh your way into 2026? Head to Ground Round at 7 PM for a night of hilarity with comedic genius Michael Harrison. Take a step back in time at the Eagles Club, where local favorites Kenny & the Classics will be bringing the best hits of the 50s and 60s. From 8 PM to Midnight, enjoy drinks and dancing with dash of nostalgia. Forks’ trendy Downtown District is buzzing with options to wine, dine and say cheers to the New Year. Hotspots like The Toasted Frog, Skies 322, Ely’s Ivy, Blue Moose Bar & Grill, Harry’s Steakhouse, The Hub, Brick & Barley, Joe Black’s and The Loft are ready to serve up delicious bites and festive cocktails all night long.
Greater Grand Forks really knows how to throw a party and New Year’s Eve is no exception. From lively celebrations to cozy gatherings, the city sparkles with energy and excitement as the countdown begins. So grab your crew, raise a glass and welcome 2026 in uniquely Forks style!
Additional information on these and other local events, attractions, dining, nightlife, shopping and lodging may be found on our website at VisitGrandForks.com. You can also stay connected by following Visit Greater Grand Forks on Facebook and Instagram.