Ring in 2026 in style at these New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day celebrations in the Flathead Valley.  

A roundup of events happening Wednesday, Dec. 31  

• Ring in the new year on the slopes at Whitefish Mountain Resort. The resort will host a torchlight parade and fireworks show from 5 to 6 p.m. Spectators are encouraged to gather at the base of Ed’s Run, near Ed and Mully’s Restaurant, 3905 Big Mountain Road, in the Upper Village, for the best views. Night skiing will close from 5:15 to 6:15 p.m. on Chair 2 for the parade and fireworks while chairs 3 and 6 remain open until 8:30 p.m.    

• Reel in the new year with the inaugural Dropping of the Fish Dec. 31 at the Firebrand Hotel, 650 Third St. E. in Whitefish. From 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., celebrate with an evening of music, dinner and cocktails and then join in the countdown with a champagne toast while an illuminated fish descends from the top of the Firebrand.   

• A New Year’s Eve celebration at The Boat Club at The Lodge at Whitefish Lake features music by DJ JC, sparklers, a Champagne toast and desser drop at midnight. The event runs from 5 p.m. to midnight. Dinner reservations are strongly encouraged by calling 863-4040.  

• Countdown to 2026 at the Craggy Range Bar and Grill in downtown Whitefish with DJ Reidardie and DJ Hannah K. The party starts at 9 p.m. and goes through 1 a.m. The evening includes late-night bites. No cover charge.  

• The Lodge at McGregor Lake, 12250 U.S. 2 in Marion, hosts its New Year’s Eve Party beginning at 8 p.m.  • Glow into the future like it’s 1989 at 101 Central’s New Year’s Eve Northern Light Glow in downtown Whitefish from 10 p.m. to 1 a.m. Celebrate in 1980s-style surrounded by glowing lights, throwback jams and the sparkle of the Northern Lights. Dress bold, dance harder and get ready to glow into 2026. Tickets range from $83 to $310.   

• Grouse Mountain Lodge hosts an elevated dinner on New Year’s Eve from 4-10 p.m.   

• Enjoy the sounds of K-Niption Fit at the Buffalo Saloon & Casino, 5 Swan Way, Bigfork, on Dec. 31 until midnight. The evening includes Champagne toast and fireworks. For more information, call 890-3064.  

• Ring in the New Year with a bang at Waters Edge Winery and Bistro’s New Year’s Eve “Price is Right” party 6-10 p.m. Dec. 31. The event brings all the excitement, laughter, and friendly competition of the classic show with local style. 

The evening begins with a grazing table and then includes a prime rib dinner. Cocktail hour begins at 6 p.m. and game play begins at 7 p.m.  

Waters Edge is located at 2593 U.S. 2, Kalispell. For ages 21 and older. Ticket prices range from about $100 to $225. Tickets available at eventbrite.com. 

A roundup of events happening Thursday, Jan. 1.  

• Celebrate the first day of 2026 with a New Year’s Day Brunch Pajama Party at the Boat Club at The Lodge at Whitefish Lake. Enjoy over-the-top breakfast items including “hangover specials” and hearty bloody Mary skewers with live DJ spins by Halladay from 9 a.m. to noon. Wear pajamas and get one free mimosa. Reservations suggested by calling 863-4040.   

• Start the year with a splash at the Annual Polar Bear Plunge on Flathead Lake hosted by The Raven, 15321 Montana 35, Bigfork, on Jan.1. A parade kicks off the event around 1:30 p.m. Participants are encouraged to wear costumes and bring a change of clothes, warm socks and water shoes. Free admission.