As the clock ticks closer to midnight on New Year’s Eve, the city of Redlands in California’s Inland Empire is gearing up to welcome 2024 in style. With two exciting community events planned for December 31st, Redlands promises a night filled with festive cheer, family-friendly entertainment, and community spirit, all without breaking the bank.
The Annual New Year’s Eve Orange Drop Returns to Downtown
After a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the much beloved Annual New Year’s Eve Orange Drop makes its triumphant return to downtown Redlands this year. Presented by the Redlands Chamber of Commerce with the support of title sponsor Yamaava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel, this reimagined event celebrates 130 years of the Chamber while reviving a decades-old tradition in the city.
The highlight of the evening will be the dropping of a giant, glowing orange at 9 PM sharp from a crane stationed near the intersection of Citrus Ave. and 7th Street. Measuring 12 feet in diameter, this iconic orange drop symbolizes the citrus heritage and dynamic spirit of Redlands.
Festivities on Citrus Avenue Begin at 6 PM
The festivities will kick off at 6 PM along a blocked-off section of Citrus Avenue between 6th and 8th Streets. Live music, roaming entertainers, street performers, and confetti cannons promise an atmosphere of celebration and joy. The street will be dotted with food trucks and sweet treat vendors, offering everything from classic fair food like funnel cake to Asian fusion tacos.
Family-Friendly Fun till 9 PM
With activities specially curated for families with children, the earlier timeline of the Orange Drop celebration allows kids and parents to enjoy the action and get home at a reasonable hour. The event will wrap up by 9 PM after the neon orange drop and countdown to the New Year, Greenwich Mean Time.
A row of carnival games like ring toss, balloon darts, and cornhole will delight kids of all ages. Face painting stations will transform little ones into tigers, butterflies, and more. And a photo booth sponsored by the Historical Society of Redlands provides the perfect backdrop for memory-making family photos.
VIP Experience with Cocktail Tasting
For adults looking to celebrate in style, a VIP area hosted by The Overland offers exclusive access and premium views of the orange drop. Tickets are limited for the VIP Experience which includes tastings of a signature NYE cocktail created by the winner of Redlands Chamber’s inaugural cocktail competition. Only 150 VIP Experience tickets are available at $150 per couple by contacting the Chamber office at 909-793-2546.
Sponsors Make Festivities Possible
The return of this beloved community tradition would not be possible without the support of local businesses and organizations. Sponsors like Esri, Redlands Community Hospital, United Van Lines, and San Bernardino County provide critical funding for staging, safety, and entertainment. Across Redlands, the NYE Orange Drop exemplifies the power of community partnerships.
An Early, Family-Focused New Year’s Celebration
Can’t wait until 9 PM to celebrate? Families can get a head start on the new year festivities at the Ultimate Family NYE event from 3 PM to 5 PM at Ed Hales Park, presented by the Redlands Visitor Center.
As the clock strikes 4 PM in London, 200 beach balls will cascade down from above, bouncing playfully as families try to keep them in the air. The earlier timing allows parents to get home at a reasonable hour while still enjoying the excitement of a ball drop with their kids.
Wishes for 2024 Inscribed on a Wishing Wall
A giant Wishing Wall at the event provides the perfect backdrop for families and friends to inscribe their hopes and dreams for 2024. Pens and mini whiteboards will be provided for reflection and intention-setting at the start of the new year.
Selfies and Games Add Family Fun
Sponsors like ESRI and Board Game Paradise have made activities at the event possible. A selfie photo booth backdrop designed by Redlands High School students brings some Millennial flair. Carnival games like sack races, a beanbag toss, and hula hoop challenges promise fun for all ages. And local food trucks will offer budget-friendly bites and treats to fuel the festivities.
Rain or Shine, the Party Goes On
In case of inclement weather, Board Game Paradise has a backup plan to move the fun indoors while still keeping people spaced apart. Their team will run board game stations and tournaments so families can connect over old-school entertainment.
Affordable, Community-Focused Celebrations
With family-friendly programming, reasonable pricing, and a community-driven vibe, Redlands offers two memorable options for ringing in 2024. The city continues to find creative ways to foster community spirit and kick off the new year in style, without the high price tags of big city celebrations.
