Ludington's New Year's Eve Ball Drop

Skip the crowds of Times Square and discover one of West Michigan’s best-kept New Year’s Eve secrets — the Ludington New Year’s Eve Ball Drop, just a 90-minute drive from Grand Rapids.

Now in its 16th year, this vibrant celebration has become a must-visit event for travelers looking to ring in the new year somewhere memorable. Set in the heart of downtown Ludington, this small lakeshore town goes big — with live music, a festive outdoor beer garden, fireworks over the city, and a stunning ball drop lit by 6,000 LED lights.

After 9 p.m., the streets come alive as Ludington Avenue and James Street are closed to vehicles, turning the downtown into a pedestrian-only party zone. It’s a safe, walkable, and charming spot to count down the final seconds of the year.

With local hotels, cozy inns, and restaurants just steps away from the action, it’s the perfect destination for a winter getaway that blends small-town charm with big celebration energy.

So pack your bags, hit the road, and make this New Year’s Eve one to remember — Ludington is ready to welcome you.

Book dinner earlier in the evening at one of Ludington’s many unique downtown eateries – from brewpubs like Jamesport Brewing and Ludington Bay Brewing, to fine dining standouts like Blu Moon Bistro, and Timbers Prime.  Many stores are also open until midnight, so peruse the downtown and pop in for some shopping and a warm-up. At 9 p.m., head toward the pavilion and beer garden at Legacy Plaza, featuring a deejay at the entertainment stage. Domestic and craft beer, wine and seltzers are available for purchase, along with commemorative light-up drink glasses. Ludington’s main street also shuts down to car traffic at that time, so thousands of pedestrians can spill onto the street to get a good view of the New Year’s Eve Ball (one of the largest in West Michigan) touching down at midnight. At the stroke of midnight, look skyward to watch the ball drop, followed by confetti and a dazzling fireworks display over the rooftops of downtown. The event is free, though drinks and merchandise are available for purchase.

Area businesses are sponsoring free rides and towing service that evening. Ludington Mass Transportation Authority provides free rides to and from downtown from 9 p.m. Dec. 31 through 4 a.m. Jan. 1 by reservation at 231.845.6218. Those wishing to have their car towed home can call one of four towing companies (Abrahamson Towing: 231.843.2990; Oceana Auto: 231.843.6500; Auto Ranch Towing: 231.425.6206; and Fiers Towing: 231.757.4479). Towing and driving services are available in Ludington city limits. Taxi services also are available with Judy’s Lakeside Rides (231.233.7200).

Start the New Year on the right foot (and burn off those partying calories) Jan. 1 with Ludington’s Resolution 5K at 11 a.m. through downtown. The $30 entry fee includes a custom die-cast finishers medal and a #RunLudington t-shirt. Register online or on race day ($35) from 9:30-10:30 a.m. at Sportsman’s Restaurant & Bar, 111 W Ludington Avenue.