By Cam Rhinehardt and Lauren Kruchten
*Clink, clink*—it’s almost 2023! No New Year’s Eve plans yet? No problem! These Raleigh restos and bars are kicking off the new year with a range of festivities—so whether you’re looking for a chill vibe, trying to dance your heart out or hoping to have an upscale evening, we’ve got you covered. 3, 2, 1… Happy New Year!
Vidrio
If partying to the nines is your idea of a good time, look no further than Vidrio’s NYE soiree, complete with chef-curated hors d’oeuvres, craft cocktails, tunes from DJ Wayne Draper, a Champagne toast at midnight and immaculate vibes (natch). At least you can say you entered 2023 in style (!).
Jolie
Start the new year on a tasty note by enjoying a special four-course dinner at Scott Crawford’s beloved Parisian resto with dishes including endive salad, Parisienne gnocchi, beef filet and—to finish the meal—a dark chocolate creme brulee. Bonne année!
The Willard
Celebrate NYE with one of the best views of the city—and the DTR fireworks! Plus enjoy live music, a dance floor, two full bars, party favors and an American-inspired buffet. P.S. If you purchase a NYE package at AC Hotel Raleigh Downtown, you’ll get two tickets to The Willard’s New Year’s Eve bash and a bottle of bubbly. Not having to worry about getting home after a night of fun? Sounds like a win-win!
Boxcar
Looking to get your head in the game for the new year? Boxcar’s no-fuss, no-frills NYE party is right up your alley. Come as you are (no fancy attire required) and enjoy arcade games and $25 Champagne bottles. Cheers!
Gatsby’s House
Party like it’s the 1920s at Gatsby’s House NYE, a Gatsby-themed party with a prepaid bar, complimentary apps and not one, but four DJs. A little party never killed nobody!
First Night Raleigh
Ring in the first night of the year at the city’s go-to destination for New Year’s Eve. The event, which takes place at several venues across DTR, features a lineup of several artists—including Tray Wellington Band, Duck The Band, Rebekah Todd and G Yamazawa—NTM food vendors, an acorn drop and fireworks at midnight. How’s that for New Year’s cheer?
Wye Hill
Gather on the hill for Wye Hill’s annual New Year’s Eve reception-style party, complete with chef-curated dishes (think sliders, flatbreads, desserts and more) and a special new beer release—plus a complimentary Champagne toast at midnight and one of the best views of Raleigh, natch. You’ll have nothing to wye-ne about here!
Unscripted Durham
Grab 2023 by the horns and head over to the Bull City for a night of fun, food and, of course, Champagne! Unscripted’s speakeasy-style NYE party will feature delicious hors d’oeuvres, a DJ and a midnight toast. And make sure to wear something flashy!
Museum of Natural Sciences
Eat my shorts! Rocky Top Catering is throwing it back to the ’80s with the ultimate all-inclusive NYE party feat. food, bars, DJs, two dance floors, a live ’80s cover band and more.
Glasshouse Kitchen
New year, new traditions. Research Triangle’s new-ish resto is hosting a six-course tasting menu with wine pairings from co-owner Sara Abernethy—plus late-night snacks for when the drunchies set in.
Cucciolo Terrazza
Cucciolo is going to guarantee you won’t go into the new year hungry. For New Year’s Eve the classy Italian resto is offering a BYO three-course dinner of sorts with several options ranging from goat cheese cannelloni to minestrone di mare to tagliata and more.
