Children scream with delight as Jeff Boyer covers them with bubbles at the Saranac Lake Free Library during his “Bubble Trouble” show on New Year’s Eve in 2023. (Enterprise photo — Aaron Marbone)

SARANAC LAKE — The Village of Saranac Lake recently announced the return of its New Year’s Eve celebration, North Country New Year, on Dec. 31, from 5 to 10 p.m. That evening, the downtown area will come alive with live entertainment, family-friendly activities, local food, comedy shows and a fireworks display. This festive night is for residents and visitors from across the North Country and Adirondacks.

North Country New Year offers a substance-free, family-oriented celebration focused on arts, culture and community connection. Local, regional and guest artists will provide various entertainment and music across multiple venues, showcasing a blend of talent and creativity to ring in the new year.

This year’s event features a lineup of events, starting with headliner Driftwood, bringing its energetic folk-rock sound to Harrietstown Town Hall. Families can enjoy a Kids’ Carnival featuring balloon animals, caricatures, face painting, live performances by Jeff Boyer’s Big Bubble Bonanza and juggler Stephen Gratto and Historic Saranac Lake will host a Vintage Game Night at the Saranac Lake Laboratory Museum.

Küf Knotz and Christine Elise will add a unique flair with their hip-hop and harp music, while guests can also lace up for ice skating at the Saranac Lake Civic Center.

Other performances include The Gaslight Tinkers, playing a lively fusion of old-time fiddle, funk, Caribbean and African music, and a performance by flamenco-to-bluegrass virtuosos Maria Zemantauski and Sten Isachsen. For a throwback, Frankie and the Moonlighters will revive the sounds of the ’50s and ’60s, while the Plattsburgh State Gospel Choir will bring their energetic and soulful sound to the event.

Attendees can also marvel at Smoke Show Fire Co.’s fire dancing, create art at ADK ArtRise’s make-and-take project stations, learn new moves with dance lessons at the Dance Sanctuary and take a spin on the Adirondack Carousel.

“Last year, we brought this event back after a three-year hiatus due to the pandemic, and our organizing committee is thrilled to do it again,” said Kenzie Marine, a committee member. “New Year’s Eve in Saranac Lake has always been a magical time, and we’re working hard to create a memorable experience for everyone as we welcome 2025.”

Access to all events during North Country New Year is available by purchasing an artfully designed button, which serves as your event pass. Buttons can be picked up at the Harrietstown Town Hall/Welcome Center on Dec. 31, with proof of purchase. Admission rates are $20 per person, $15 for seniors and free for children under 18.

For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/4583u4hv.