4 Rockin’ NYE Celebrations in Altoona

nye in altoona

From literal party animals to epic, long-haired journeys into the 80’s space-time continuum, we’re counting down the best ways to ring/rock in the new year in Altoona!

1: Break out the bubbly at Prairie Meadows

Grab a glass of champagne – available at all bars for just $7 – and ring in the new year with a pair of free live shows at Prairie Meadows!

First up is Iowa native Bruce Day, a solo act who brings laid-back, long-haired vibes with soulful acoustics and his trusty kick-drum. Later in the night, Final Mix carries us into the future with a high-energy blend of R&B, blues and rock.

Want to end 2021 with a win? Swing by the Finish Line Show Lounge for Ring in the Riches Cash Drawings, every hour from 4:22-8:22PM.

Here’s the full lineup:

  • Free Live Music: Bruce Day, 5:30-9PM (Finish Line Show Lounge)
  • Free Live Music: Final Mix, 9:30PM-12:30AM (Finish Line Show Lounge)
  • Ring in the Riches Cash Drawings: 4:22-8:22PM (Finish Line Show Lounge)
  • AJ’s Steakhouse 4PM – 11PM

2: Enjoy a feast fit for a rock star at Johnny’s Steakhouse

The best bite of steak you’ve had all year just might be waiting for you at Johnny’s Steakhouse. Located at the heart of Altoona’s shopping and entertainment district, Johnny’s is a go-to spot for exceptional service, a curated wine list, and an entourage of steak, Italian standards and seafood.

Johnny’s is open during regular hours (11AM-10PM) on New Year’s Eve. Check out their menu here!

3: Party with the Pandas at Brick & Ivy Rooftop

Find your New Year’s groove on the beautiful new Brick & Ivy Rooftop with the Punching Pandas—a seven-piece band that rewrites the meaning of “party animals.” The group – famous in the Des Moines area for their lively shows and crowd-participation – packs a punch with old-school rock, funk, blues, country, rap, pop and today’s top hits.

The Pandas take the stage at 9PM and keep things rockin’ all the way up to the New Year.

4: Go back to the future at Hawk Heaven Tavern

For a mere $6 cover charge, you can blast backwards and forwards in time, traveling to the future of the past and the past of the future (confused? that’s okay).

Starting at 9PM at Hawk Heaven Tavern – a slice of sports bar paradise we featured earlier this yearAfter Shock will take center stage. Let your hair down and enjoy a trip back (and forward?) in time with this 80’s tribute band, featuring favorites from groups like Kiss and Guns ‘n’ Roses.

For table reservations and package deals, contact Kaydie at 515-556-9801.