It’s hard to believe that Colombia and the rest of the world will be saying goodbye to 2022 this weekend as they ring in the new year, but it’s sure to be a great one.
1. Square Lava Drop 2023
Columbia welcomes the new year with an ever-popular tradition of gathering in the square for the Center of Hope’s annual mule drop.
The big moment comes when the clock strikes 12:00, but this year’s event kicks off at 8:00 PM with lots of fun activities.
This includes live music, food trucks, and the opportunity to shop among unique local small businesses in downtown Columbia. At 11:45 p.m., Chief Girlfriend Smiley Ricks and the C-Town Special will also be performing.
The 2023 Mule Drop by Center of Hope is a free, family-friendly event for everyone, whether you’re a local regular or just visiting here to see what the big event is like in downtown Columbia. will be invited. And on New Year’s Eve, the city is in an uproar.
2. Added New Year’s Eve event
Downtown Columbia isn’t the only place to celebrate the big day this Saturday, as many local restaurants, bars, and establishments are hosting their own special 2023 parties.
The Mulehouse (812 S. High St.) will ring in ’70s New Year’s style with a ‘Saturday Night Fever’ themed dance party. Starting at 7 p.m. Saturday, the event includes a night of champagne his toast at midnight, balloon drops and dancing under a disco ball. To purchase tickets ranging from $50-$175, visit www.TheMulehouse.com.
The Farmstead Cellar, just off the square at 803 S. Main Street, hosts a pre-New Year party from 7-9pm. Guests can sample Tennessee sparkling wine from The Farmstead, enjoy hors d’oeuvres, and enjoy Stephanie’s jazz music. Adlington Duo. Tickets are limited and can be purchased by calling (931) 384-8056.
One of Columbia’s newest businesses, The Tilted Mule, will be hosting a New Year’s Bash with karaoke, drinks and delicious food on Saturday from 6pm. The Tilted Mule is located at the former Tuck’s Place site at 102 Depot St.
The Level Bar and Grill at 307 Riverside Drive will host a New Year’s party on Saturdays at 8:00 PM. The event will feature live music by Throwback. Tickets are $35.
Rusty Duck, 403 Riverside Drive will also be hosting a special New Year’s party on Saturday at 7pm. The event includes prize giveaways, dance music and more. There is also a $10 admission fee.
3. New Year’s Day 5k Fun Run on the Riverwalk
Ring in the new year with a ride through the Riverside Neighborhood this weekend.
The New Year’s Day 5k Fun Run begins at 7am on Sunday at Riverwalk Park. This year’s route is spelled “2023”. Chalk arrows guide nearby runners.
Participation in the event is free.
The Muletown Millers Run Club will also host a group run/walk on Saturday at 7:30am at Riverwlak.
4. Asgard Yule Log Party
Asgard Brewing Co. & Taproom, 104 E. 5th St. continues the tradition of ringing in the New Year with its annual Yule Log Celebration.
The Asgard Yule Log Christmas Party will be held on Friday at 6pm. Whether you are a regular or a first time visitor, please enjoy delicious craft beer.
Also, grab some delicious food from the Crunchie’s Munchies food truck.
The burning of the Yule Log Ceremony will take place around 6pm
5. More live entertainment
The Murphy Ridge Band will perform Saturday at 7pm at Asgard Brewing Co. & Taproom, 104 E. 5th St. as part of the brewery’s New Year’s Eve bash.
The Savage Outlaws play at The Boondox at 3543 Highway 431 Saturday from 8pm.
Jay Powell covers events and entertainment for The Daily Herald. Contact him at jpowell@c-dh.net or follow him on Twitter @JayPowellCDH.