“I LOVE NEW YORK” CELEBRATES NEW YEAR’S EVE BEYOND TIMES SQUARE

Ring In 2009 with Off-Beat Packages and Alternative Celebrations Throughout the Empire State

NEW YORK, November 18, 2008 – While Times Square in New York City is the epicenter of the world’s New Year’s Eve celebrations, New York State (www.iloveny.com) is offering some unconventional alternative options to ring in the New Year that range from singing Auld Lang Syne in a cave, to “letting it be” with the Beatles or even sharing a celebration – and a jog -- with our troops in Afghanistan. There are more reasons than ever to say “I Love New York” with a range of offbeat, affordable, family-friendly alternatives to the bustling crowds and bright lights of Times Square. Options include:

Howe Caverns, Howes Cave

Revelers can take their celebration underground – literally – as Howe Caverns offers a sweetheart package for New Year’s Eve including overnight accommodations at the on-site Howe Caverns Motel and a Lantern Tour of the spectacular Great Cave for two adults.  Reservations must be made at least 48 hours in advance.  The lantern tour begins at 5:30 PM on December 31, 2008.  Rooms start at $105 per night based on double occupancy.  Visit www.howecaverns.com or call 518-296-8950.           

New Year's at the Sagamore Hotel, Bolton Landing

Starting the New Year with a hard day’s night is appropriate as The Liverpool Legends, the ultimate Beatles tribute band, will perform at the Sagamore Hotel New Year’s Eve Gala. Package includes accommodations for three nights in either The Lodges or the Historic Hotel, New Year’s dinner at The Sagamore Dining Room or Trillium Restaurant, Gala party and midnight toast, and a recovery brunch on New Year’s Day.  Rates start at $389 per person in a Lodge Room, based on double occupancy plus tax.  Package may not be combined with other offers, valid on new reservations only.  For more information or to book this package, visit www.thesagamore.com or call (866) 385-6221.

First Night Saratoga, Saratoga Springs

First Night takes on a new and special meaning as The YMCA of Saratoga joins event organizers to sponsor a unique 5K run starting at Skidmore College at 5:30 pm.  On the other side of the world, in Afghanistan, 50+ troops will race in an early-morning run (their time there) at exactly the same time.  Guests spending New Year’s Eve in Saratoga are invited to root for all the runners in the race---and for the amazing work the troops are doing around the world.  Package includes dinner for 2 and a one night stay in either the Medbery Inn and Spa, Longfellows Inn and Restaurant, The Saratoga Hotel, Brunswick Bed and Breakfast or Grand Union Motel.  To book this package call 1-800-653-0231. 

The Castle Family Fun Center, Chester

The Castle Family Fun Center, just one hour from Manhattan, is hosting an adrenaline-pumping New Year's Eve Party for the whole family.  The evening begins at 8:00 p.m. with laser tag, go-karts, rock climbing, and roller skating.  Dancing will occur between 11:30 p.m. and 1:00 a.m.  At midnight, guests will celebrate on the rink with confetti canons and a 17 foot screen to watch the Times Square Ball Drop.  Rates are $52.50 adults, $37.50 children 12 & under.  Wristbands must be purchased in advance and paid in full.  

The Holiday Inn Express, next door to The Castle, is offering a special rate of $109 per room plus tax for those who book reservations for the New Years Eve Party at the Castle.  For more information visit www.thecastlefuncenter.com or www.hiechester.com or call 845-469-2116.

“Night 365” at Cradle of Aviation Museum, Garden City

“Night 365” at Nassau County’s close-by Cradle of Aviation Museum in Garden City offers an exciting, memorable and affordable New Year’s Eve experience. “Night 365” includes performances by a stunning acrobatics troupe, a mime comedian, a world-champion juggler, and continuous music from local bands. A laser light show, programmed to music and simulcast with the celebration in Times Square, takes center-stage just before midnight. Admission of $35 per person includes a family-friendly buffet dinner, admission to the museum’s exhibits and to the Firefighters Museum next door.  Doors open at 7 p.m. Package offers double rooms for $279 for New Year’s Eve and king rooms for $189. Package includes a bottle of champagne with chocolate-covered strawberries and a full breakfast on New Year’s morning.  For more information and to purchase tickets for “Night 365” visit www.cradleofaviation.org or call (516) 572-4111.

New Year’s Week at Bristol Mountain, South Bristol

Revelers can reach a “peak” celebration in [Back to Press Releases Main]