2011 is drawing to a close, and what a year we have had! The Oregon Coast is ready to celebrate a new year and here are 5 local events and traditions for you to ring in 2012:
1. Whale Watch Week (Dec 26-Jan 1)
Visit trained “Whale Watching Spoken Here” volunteers at Shore Acres State Park from 10am to 1pm to learn more about migrating Gray whales. Call 541-888-3732
www.WhaleSpoken.org
2. 2011 Shore Acres Festival of Lights (nightly through Dec 31)
This is one of our favorite local holiday traditions and is open to the public from 4-9:30 PM each night (including Dec 24 & 25) until December 31, 2011. Visit www.shoreacres.net
3. Chowder Bounty (through March 1, 2012)
Book our Chowder Bounty Lodging Specials at a participating hotel and we will give you a Dining Gift Certificate for TWO FREE CUPS OF CHOWDER to sample some of our best from participating restaurants. (1 Night Minimum Stay)
www.chowderbounty.com
4. New Years Eve Parties
There is no shortage of New Years Eve in North Bend/Coos Bay. Here are a few events happening that evening:
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North Bend Lanes New Year’s Eve Party (6:30pm-12:30am)
Two NYE’s Party: Monte Carlo Color Pin bowling at 6:30pm and 80’s music in the bar starting at 9:30pm. Includes food, adult beverages, bowling shoes and a chance to win $500! Cost is $29 but Facebook friends get in for $25! Special cosmic bowling for all ages from 10pm – 12:30pm ($15). www.northbendlanes.com
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Swingin’ New Year’s Eve Party at The Mill Casino Hotel (events all weekend)
Random prize giveaways, Dance party in the Salmon Room starting at 9pm (tickets on sale at KoKwel Gifts), with midnight champagne toast and balloon drop or get down with live music in Warehouse 101. The Saw Blade will be offering a $19.95 New Year’s Eve all you can eat buffet from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday, December 31, followed by a $17.95 New Year’s Day brunch from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday www.themillcasino.com
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Oregon Coast Culinary Institute New Year’s Eve Venetian Masquerade Ball (8:30pm – 1am)
Attendees should come dressed in their finest wear and don their favorite mask if they like! Upon arrival, guests will be entertained with gourmet food, champagne toast, dancing, no-host bar, silent auction, and countdown to midnight with a roaring fire inside a giant ice tower. Party goers will be surrounded by ice sculptures from Master Carver Chris Foltz. Tickets are $30 advance or $35 at the door. Call 541-888-7189 for reservations. www.occi.net
5. Polar Bear Plunge Jan 1, 2012 9am- SHARP!
Sunset Bay State Park, Cape Arago Hwy
Join us as we celebrate this annual tradition with our local Polar Bears for a New Year’s dive in to the ocean. The only rule is that you must completely immerse yourself. Spend 1-5 minutes in our waters and you’re sure to start your new year off right! Everyone is welcome!