Things To Do This Weekend December 27, 2024-January 1, 2025

By: Stephanie Wylie 12/20/2024

The days are numbered for 2024. Have it be a new year and a new you as you peruse the top five things to do this weekend, December 27, 2024-January 1, 2025. 

If you're still lost over what you're going to do for New Year's Eve, continue here to learn more about what the land of lakes has to offer. Click here, if you aged 21 and elder to see what kind of drinks are getting cooked up to celebrate said holiday from our Lake County Libation Trail. 

Bundle up and splash, follow the yellow brick road, celebrate the new year, twerk the night away and dream of a "Count Your Blessings" one last time as we provide you with the top things to do this weekend December 27, 2024-January 1, 2025. 

1. Oztacular New Year’s Eve Countdown Party at American Place Casino in Waukegan

The American Place Casino is pulling out all the stops for an unforgettable New Year’s Eve with its OzTacular Countdown Party. The Waukegan attraction invites partygoers to follow the yellow brick road to a magical evening inspired by the glitz and excitement of the beloved 1939 film “The Wizard of Oz.” Visitors can win big early with Hot Seat Drawings every 15 minutes, awarding $250-$1,000 in Free Play. At midnight, $15,000 in cash will be split among five lucky guests. Plus, casino-goers can earn 10,000 same-day base points for a chance to win up to $10,000 in the Tornado of Cash. Live performances will keep the energy high throughout the evening, running until 1 a.m. The event also has live entertainment, delectable eats from onsite restaurants like Asia-Azteca and North Shore Steaks and Seafood. For more details about the event and to plan your evening, head to AmericanPlace.com. Let the countdown begin!

Tuesday, December 31; beginning at 10 a.m. Free admission. American Place Casino, 4011 Fountain Square Pl., Waukegan.

2. New Year’s Eve Family Party in Vernon Hills

Families looking for a kid-friendly way to celebrate 2025’s kickoff can head to the Sullivan Community Center in Vernon Hills for the New Year’s Eve Family Party. A DJ will be in attendance playing music with high-energy that will have kids and parents dancing their way into the evening. The center’s open gym will offer plenty of space for games and activities. As the clock strikes 6 p.m., the party will culminate in its very own countdown to 2025—complete with all the excitement and cheer of midnight celebrations but at a family-friendly hour. Food will be available for purchase, and families are encouraged to register in advance. Ring in the new year in Vernon Hills. To secure tickets and learn more, visit VHParkDistrict.org.

Wednesday, January 1; 4-6:30 p.m. Admission is $7. Sullivan Community Center, 635 N. Aspen Dr., Vernon Hills.

3. 26th Annual Waukegan Polar Bear Plunge

The City of Waukegan and its park district present the 26th annual Waukegan Polar Bear Plunge. For over two decades, this exhilarating plunge into the icy waters of Lake Michigan has not only tested participants’ endurance but also served as a heartwarming way to give back to the community. This year’s event will benefit Special Recreation Services of Northern Lake County – Waukegan, an organization that empowers individuals with disabilities to enjoy programs like athletics, camps and health and fitness activities. The first 400 brave souls into the frigid “drink” will receive a commemorative event shirt. For more information on how to participate, sponsor or support the event, visit WaukeganParks.org. Mark your calendar, grab your towel and prepare for a splash that makes a difference!

Wednesday, January 1; 10-11 a.m. Registration is $20 per person. Waukegan Municipal Beach, 201 Sea Horse Dr., Waukegan.

4. Radiance New Year’s Eve at Lake County Fairgrounds and Events Center in Grayslake

Music lovers and bass enthusiasts have a powerful way to close out 2024 with Radiance New Year’s Eve. The two-day Lake County Fairgrounds and Event Center celebration that promises an electrifying lineup and an unforgettable experience. This year’s lineup features renowned electronic music acts Rezz, Svdden Death, Peekaboo, Kill Safari and more. With its unique combination of ground-shaking bass, mesmerizing light shows and high-energy performances, the Grayslake event creates an immersive experience. Get ready to end the year on a high note. Tickets and more information are available at LCFairgrounds.com.

Monday-Tuesday, December 30-31; 6 p.m.-2 a.m. Tickets starting at $145. Lake County Fairgrounds & Event Center, 1060 E. Peterson Rd., Grayslake.

5. Irving Berlin’s “White Christmas” at Marriott Theatre

"White Christmas" is a staple for the holiday season featuring legendary gems from storied composer Irving Berlin. The Lincolnshire show featuring the title song first used in "Holiday Inn" that won an Oscar for "Best Original Song" in 1942, follows Captain Bob Wallace (originally played by Bing Crosby) and Private Phil Davis (performed by Danny Kaye in the 1954 film), putting on a variety show for the 151st Division on Christmas Eve. After the war concludes, the duet becomes famous and they are also musical show producers. They later meet Betty (played originally by Rosemary Clooney and Judy (portrayed by Vera-Ellen), and the two soldiers and the two female performance conjure up a relationship. After running into their old commander from the war, they learn finances are an issue with his Vermont country inn and is due to close. The four plan a show to keep Waverly's inn still in business as they plan a show. Experience the timeless musical as they draw the final curtain this weekend. For tickets, visit MarriottTheatre.com.

Friday-Sunday, December 27-29. Fri.: 8 p.m., Sat.: 4 and 8 p.m., Sun.: 1 and 5 p.m. Tickets start at $60 per person. Marriott Theatre, 10 Marriott Dr., Lincolnshire.

For more things to do this weekend December 27-January 1, continue here.