Popular New Year’s Eve Activities in Bloomington
Bloomington lights up on New Year’s Eve with a mix of outdoor fun, lively parties, great food, and festive vibes for every kind of celebration. Whether you’re carving turns on the slopes, enjoying dinner with friends, or dancing into the early morning, here’s how to make the most of it!
Hyland Hills Ski Area
If you’re looking for traditional winter fun, Hyland Hills Ski Area offers downhill skiing and snowboarding, and a chalet to warm your toes. Kick off your New Year’s Eve with fresh air and winter adventure at Hyland Hills Ski Area. The hill will be open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on December 31, with special holiday lift ticket pricing available that day. It’s a great way to squeeze in some downhill skiing or snowboarding before the night’s festivities begin. If you aren’t one for the slopes, lace up your ice skates and take your family to one of the many outdoor skating rinks and warming houses in Bloomington, or bring a sled or snow tube to a local hill.
If it’s indoor events you’re looking for, get the whole crew out early on New Year’s Eve for a family-friendly celebration at Nickelodeon Universe inside Mall of America. From 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on December 31, the indoor theme park transforms into a lively party zone full of rides, music, characters, and special activities designed to bring in the new year with energy and fun.
The day features a festive countdown paired with a character parade across the park featuring your favorite Nickelodeon friends. Grab an unlimited ride wristband to enjoy it all and score a pair of light-up New Year glasses while supplies last. Make it a memorable daytime celebration before your evening plans begin!
LOCAL RESTAURANT CELEBRATIONS
FireLake at Mall of America
Ring in the new year with unforgettable flavors at some of Bloomington’s favorite restaurants. Start New Year’s Day on a delicious note with a New Year’s Eve brunch at FireLake Grill House and Cocktail Bar, where a special menu highlights local flair. Share the Smoked Minnesota Trout Dip with lemon zest, wild rice cranberry crackers, and pickled vegetables, dig into Wild Rice Waffles & Fried Chicken topped with truffle mac & cheese and shakshuka-style poached eggs, and finish sweet with Chocolate Espresso Pots, a silky dark chocolate custard crowned with whipped cream and chocolate shavings. It’s the perfect way to relax, recharge, and kick off your New Year’s celebrations.
When the clock counts down the night before, Cowboy Jack’s turns back the dial with a “Back to the ’80s” New Year’s Eve party on December 31, 2025. Expect retro vibes, a live DJ, party favors, a balloon drop at midnight, and a costume contest for the best ’80s look.
Whether you’re toasting with brunch or turning back time before the new year, New Year’s Eve activities in Bloomington are chalk-full of ways to end the year with fun!
