Rock the New Year at These Houston Gems

Another new year is about to begin. As we close out 2022, you may be thinking about spots to go to celebrate. We’ve put together a list of fun activities you can enjoy to end the year on a positive note or start the year fresh. Have a happy and healthy New Year, and we’ll see you in 2023!

New Year’s Eve at Harold’s Restaurant

Choose from brunch or dinner on New Year’s Eve at Harold’s Restaurant in the Heights. Both meals include three tasty courses and a celebratory drink upon arrival. The covered outdoor patio is a fantastic place to visit to sip a few beverages and reminisce – just something to keep in mind. The restaurant will be closed in observance of New Year’s Day, so be sure to make plans to reserve a table before the ball drops.

There will also be a celebration at 9 PM with a DJ, dancing, dessert, a welcome cocktail, and a champagne toast. Call to RSVP.

Harold’s is giving patrons plenty of ways to celebrate on New Year’s Eve. Image Source: Harold’s Restaurant Instagram

When: December 31st

Where: Harold’s Restaurant, 350 West 19th Street, Houston, TX 77008

New Year’s Eve at Julep

This Washington Avenue bar is going all out for New Year’s Eve. Guests can choose to celebrate in the main bar or in the parlor from 10 PM to 2 AM for two very different experiences. Reservation at the main bar location includes one bottle of champagne, one bottled bonded bourbon and rye Manhattan, chocolates, brandied cherries, Marcona almonds, six signature cocktails, a large seafood tower, a complimentary toast at midnight, New Year’s Eve party favors, and a live DJ set. Reservations allow for up to six people per booth for $750. Formal attire is recommended.

If something laid back is more your style, think about celebrating in the parlor, where Julep will turn back time to the ‘90s. Reservations aren’t required (though strongly recommended) but include a bottle of champagne, a balloon drop, spins of the best ‘90s hits, and the option to order from a ‘90s throwback drink menu and a food menu with adult versions of Bagel Bites, Lunchables, Hamburger Helper, and other staples. Break out those thick scrunchies and your best ‘90s attire! Reservations start at $150.

When: Dec. 31, 2022 from 10 PM – 2 AM

Where: Julep, 1919 Washington Avenue, Houston, TX 77007

New Year’s at B&B Butchers & Restaurant

Say “Sayonara” to 2022 with holiday happenings at B&B Butchers. On New Year’s Eve, the restaurant will be packed with guests looking to take advantage of party favors, drinks, a festive food menu, and live music from 7 PM to 1 AM. Reservations are required.

Rehydrate from 11 AM to 3 PM on New Year’s Day at B&B’s annual “Hangover Cure Brunch.” The restaurant will host live music on the rooftop patio and offer incredible brunch dishes and cocktails worth starting your year off with. Dinner service begins at 3 PM for those who’d like to celebrate a bit later in the day. Reservations are not required but recommended.

In case you don’t feel like heading out, order in! The butcher shop is offering a special holiday take-out menu all month long with pickup available through New Year’s Day.

When: New Year’s Eve Bash – December 31st from 7 PM – 1 AM

When: New Year’s Day “Hangover Cure Brunch” – January 1st from 11 AM – 3 PM

Where: B&B Butchers & Restaurant, 1814 Washington Avenue, Houston, TX 77007

New Year’s at B.B. Lemon

Many of the eateries on Washington Avenue aren’t holding back for New Year’s festivities, and B.B. Lemon is no exception. The restaurant is open all day on New Year’s Eve for casual brunch, lunch, and dinner services. DJ G-Funk will spin tunes in the evening as guests enjoy some great meals, late-night snacks, and cocktails. The restaurant will also hand out party favors. It’s a hot place to be for a laid-back New Year’s Eve, so reservations are recommended.

When: December 31st 

Where: B.B. Lemon, 1809 Washington Avenue, Houston, TX 77007

New Year’s Eve with Boomtown Brass Band at the Heights Theater

There’s nothing like live music on New Year’s Eve. Purchase tickets to listen to New Orleans jazz group Boomtown Brass Band and mingle over a self-serve dessert bar at the Heights Theater. There will also be a champagne toast at midnight. 

When: December 31st with doors opening at 8 PM

Where: The Heights Theater, 339 West 19th Street, Houston, TX 77008

New Year’s Eve at Kin Dee

Thai eatery Kin Dee will celebrate New Year’s Eve this year with a set menu, champagne, a DJ, and impressive aerial performances. Early bird seating begins at 5 PM for $75 per person. Guests can also choose to be seated at 7 PM or 9:30 PM for $95. Reservations are strongly encouraged.

When: December 31st beginning at 5 PM

Where: Kin Dee, 1533 North Shepherd Drive, Houston, TX 77008

New Year’s Eve at Karne 

This new Korean steakhouse in the Heights is a fabulous spot to go for those who’d like to enjoy a full meal before heading off to a private party or other venue. To cap off 2022, the restaurant will be serving a six-course meal for $150 per person. The regular dinner menu is also an option for guests who would prefer to keep things more casual. Patrons can look forward to a complimentary champagne toast and a live DJ.

When: December 31st from 5 PM – 11 PM

Where: Karne, 2805 White Oak Drive, Suite 100, Houston, TX 77007

Rockin’ New Year’s Noon at Children’s Museum Houston

Previous celebrations have featured energetic performances and confetti. Image source: Children’s Museum Houston

Great news – you don’t need to lose sleep to participate in this beloved annual festivity. Children’s Museum Houston is welcoming back this kid-friendly bash that rings in the New Year with a ball drop at noon. The kids won’t feel like they’ve missed out on a New Year’s Eve past time, and everyone will get to catch dance-worthy live performances and other entertainment. Shows will include DJs, a magician, a juggler, and more.

When: Dec. 31, 2022 from 10 AM – 3 PM

Where: Children’s Museum Houston, 1500 Binz Street, Houston, TX 77004