From glamorous soirées to cold-plunge courage and cozy mountain mornings
New Year’s Eve in Fayetteville is all about contrast — elegant dinners, slightly unhinged dance floors, quiet mountain moments, and bold traditions that wake you right up on New Year’s Day. Whether you’re dressing to the nines, dancing until midnight, or welcoming the new year with fresh air and intention, Fayetteville offers a memorable way to start 2026.
A Disturbingly Fancy New Year’s Eve at Southside Junction Tap House
9:00 PM – 1:00 AM | Tickets Required
Inspired by the beautiful chaos of Saltburn, Southside Junction Tap House is throwing a New Year’s Eve party that’s anything but ordinary. DJs Fish & Fogz will spin deep house all night while the bar transforms into a disturbingly fancy house party.
Expect velvet, martinis, and an atmosphere dripping with drama and decadence. Come dressed to kill — literally or in couture — and lean into the theme: heirlooms, eyeliner, and unapologetic, unhinged elegance.
🎟️ Tickets are limited, so plan ahead if this is your New Year’s vibe.
Timeless Elegance at The Gaines Estate
Start 2026 in classic style with a New Year’s Eve dinner at The Gaines Estate. This timeless celebration features a decadent menu, a complimentary glass of champagne with dinner, and an atmosphere that captures the glamour of the 1920s.
Dine early and be home before the ball drops — or linger a little longer and toast the night away in one of Fayetteville’s most beautiful historic spaces.
📞 Reservations recommended: 304-382-7509
New Year’s Eve on the Gorge at Smokey’s
Smokey’s on the Gorge is celebrating with Dinner Around the World from 6:00 PM – 12:30 AM, paired with a New Year’s Eve party featuring The Kind Thieves. With incredible views, live music, and a festive atmosphere, this is a perfect option for those wanting a full evening of food, music, and celebration overlooking the New River Gorge.
New Year’s Day Traditions & Reset Moments
Fayette Station Polar Swim
New Year’s Day | 1:00 PM
The Fayette Station Polar Swim is fully booked this year, but it’s still worth the trip to watch. Join locals and visitors as brave participants leap into the freezing waters together — a beloved New Year’s Day tradition that’s equal parts community celebration and pure courage. We’ll share updates if spots open.
Start the Year Centered at New River Yoga
If your New Year calls for calm and intention, New River Yoga is offering two classes New Years Eve to help you reset:
- Yoga 101: 5:00 – 6:00 PM
- Foundations & Alignment: 6:30 – 7:30 PM
Both classes focus on slow, controlled movement — perfect for easing into the new year feeling grounded and refreshed.
Make It a Mountain New Year’s Getaway
New Year’s is the perfect time to escape to the mountains and enjoy Fayetteville’s quieter season. Book a stay in one of the new cabins at The Outpost or Bear Mountain Cabins & Campground, or choose a vacation home within walking distance of the Gaines Estate and Southside Junction Tap House.
Wake up to crisp mountain air, enjoy open vistas, and kick off the year with a First Day Hike in the New River Gorge National Park — a simple, meaningful way to begin 2026 with clarity and fresh perspective.
However you choose to celebrate — dancing, dining, plunging, or pausing — Fayetteville is ready to welcome your New Year.
Plan your stay, gather your people, and start 2026 in a place that feels both grounding and unforgettable.