New Year's Eve is on its way, so it is time to celebrate all around the Nelson Bay region! Last year in 2020 the fireworks in Nelson Bay were cancelled due to COVID-19 and at the time of writing (11th December), they are still to be announced for 2021 (see the
Port Stephens Council Facebook and their
Events page for the latest news). With or without the fireworks, there are still
plenty of events around the region to celebrate the end of 2021.
Keep reading for decadent dinners, colourful cocktails, scenic cruises, '80's tunes and Drag Queen Bingo - there's something for everyone! Where will you be going?

Party into the night at Shoal Bay Country Club! Image: Original images from Shoal Bay Country Club Facebook
Shoal Bay Country Club will be hosting a New Year's Eve party to remember!
Atmos Greek restaurant will have a decadent Greek feast including fresh prawns, lobster, souvla BBQ meats and more, with a 4 hour beverage package. This is an 18 and over event and tickets cost $210 plus booking fee.
Patio and Kitchen restaurant has a sold-out event, with VIP Patio tickets still available for $189 per person. Downstairs on
Beach Level there will be live music and DJs in the main room, Courtyard and even in the carpark! Live entertainment begins at 2pm with free entry. See
here for details.
Soldiers Point Bowling Club will be hosting a Solid Gold Party night for visitors,
members and guests. Put those dancing shoes on and enjoy party tunes from the '60s to '80s! Book a table at
Taylor's Bistro if you plan to eat beforehand, as it gets very busy. See
here for details.
Moonshadow - TQC Cruises will be hosting an NYE Sunset Eats 'n 'Beats Cruise. Enjoy a 3-course menu and live music as you cruise the waters of Port Stephens. Take a walk to the top deck and look for dolphins. Tickets cost $149 per person. See
here for details.

Spend NYE on the water at Moonshadow Cruises! Image: Original images from Moonshadow - TQC Cruises Facebook
Cheeky Dog Bar at
Bannisters Hotel at Soldiers Point will be having a NYE Drag Queen Bingo with Timberlina! This free event will begin at 7pm and then there will be music until late. Although the event is free, bookings are required for numbers and COVID restrictions - see
here for details.
Also, check out your local restaurant or club, to see what's happening near you. You may find that many waterside restaurants book out early for dinner reservations on New Year's Eve, so book in early to avoid disappointment. Popular ones include
Little Beach Boathouse, The Point, The Deck and
Rick Stein's at Bannisters Port Stephens (see
here for website links). Alternatively, take a drive to
Newcastle and take part in their festivities and firework spectacular. If you're looking for a recovery party the next day, then check out
Murray's Brewery at Bobs Farm, for some
live music, burgers and large pizzas to get you back to your former self. There are large, shady trees for a quick power nap on your picnic blanket too!
Wherever you go, have a Happy New Year in Port Stephens!

Book your FREE ticket to Drag Queen Bingo at Cheeky Dog! Image: Cheeky Dog Facebook