Casinos bet big on New Year’s Eve events; Old Homestead cooking again at Borgata; Mt. Airy goes adults-only
What’s the surest bet in any of the region’s casinos? That’s an easy one: It’s that the joints will be jumping on New Year’s Eve.
Traditionally, the last night of the year is crucial to casinos’ bottom lines, which is why most tend to go all out for their guests. It’s not unusual for a gaming hall to spend well into six figures to wine and dine their most coveted customers (a.k.a. “high rollers”). But many offer public events as well. Below is a roundup of what’s open to all revelers over 21 in area casinos:
The main event is the bash hosted by legendary Philly DJ Jerry Blavat. The beloved “Geator With the Heater” will preside over a party in the Grand Ballroom that features dinner, an open bar, dancing and a performance by The Intruders. Admission is $150 per person. Tickets must be purchased by Dec. 24.
Bally’s is also throwing a party at The Yard, the Boardwalk-fronting indoor/outdoor dining and entertainment venue. The $75 admission fee includes open bar and hors d'oeurves from 9 to 11 p.m., followed by a cash bar, beer specials, and live music from Stealing Savannah.
Comedian Deon Cole performs in the Music Box theater.
Premier Nightclub presents New Jersey-based electronic group Cash Cash.
The Wild Wild West bar’s package includes a two-hour open bar, champagne toast at midnight, live entertainment, specialty cocktails and a “swag bag.” Tickets start at $50.
The Wave nightclub is the site of a party that includes a three-hour open bar, complimentary champagne toast at midnight, and music by The Exceptions. $75.
Hard Rock Hotel Casino Atlantic City
R&B giants Earth, Wind & Fire perform at 10 p.m.
The Pool After Dark at Harrah's offers a three-hour open bar from 8 to 11 p.m. and a midnight champagne toast. Admission is $95 and $50 for admission beginning at 11 p.m. (doesn’t include open bar).
Live! Casino Hotel Philadelphia
Dorinda Medley of Real Housewives of New York fame hosts a party featuring DJ Nugget, a buffet dinner and midnight balloon drop. Tickets start at $99.
DJ/producer/remixer GATTÜSO will preside over the revelries at HQ2, Ocean’s dance club. An open bar ($49) will be in effect between 9 and 11 p.m. with general admission ($39) after 11.
The party starts at 7 p.m. at the 360 lounge. Two bands, Discoteks and Fish Out Of Water will perform, with DJ Tonka spinning between sets, Admission starts at $25.
Forever Motown recreates the iconic music of The Supremes, The Temptation, The Four Tops and other artists at a concert in the Superstar Theater.
A three-hour (10 p.m.-1 a.m.) Awesome ‘80s Party in the Event Center includes an open bar, food stations, midnight toast and music by The Spazmatics. Guests can also reserve a spot on the Event Center Patio to watch the Rivers-sponsored fireworks that will be launched from a barge on the Delaware River. Admission is $119.99 (general admission) and $149.99 (VIP).
The Trop wins the evening with three separate bashes at Boogie Nights, the long-running disco that celebrates pop culture of the 1970s, ‘80s and ‘90s, the more-contemporary Kiss Kiss Nightclub and a combo package at Wild Honey Smokehouse & Tavern and Gin Rickey’s saloon.
Boogie Nights’ $75 tab includes an open bar from 9 to 11 p.m. and a balloon drop and champagne toast at midnight. Live television coverage of Times Square festivities will be screened.
Kiss Kiss is offering a $70 open bar from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Admission ($80) includes top-shelf open bar from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m., a midnight champagne toast and free coat check.
The $99 “twofer” deal includes dinner and cocktails at Wild Honey and a party at Gin Rickey’s that will feature live music, two drink tickets per person and a midnight toast. Reservations available at Open Table.
Steaks are raised at Borgata
December 22 is the day Old Homestead Steak House will reopen after a three-month renovation project.
When guests return to the bi-level AyCee outpost of the venerable Manhattan steakery, they’ll find an overhauled dining room and expanded bar. The menu, however, remains pretty much the same, with top-shelf cuts of beef and seafood topping the bill of fare.
“Old Homestead and Borgata are known for luxury, style and distinction, and this remodel delivers on those qualities, along with providing a first-in-class steakhouse experience for our valued guests,” said OH co-owner Marc Sherry. “My brother Greg and I welcome all diners to sit back, relax and enjoy a fun evening where renowned hospitality guides the culinary journey.”
Hours of operation are 5 to 10 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 4 to 10 p.m. Saturday. For info and reservations, click here.
Grownups only at Mount Airy
Mount Airy Casino Resort has taken an extraordinary step by declaring the complex entirely off-limits to people under the age of 21.
The new rule not only covers access to the casino itself, but also to restaurants, hotel rooms and the spa and pool.
“This decision, made after careful consideration and based on feedback from our patrons, caters to the increasing demand we are seeing for exceptional amenities and outstanding personal service,” said Lisa DeNaples, Mount Airy owner and managing trustee in a statement.
“By offering an adults-only environment, we intend to serve as the premier escape for those seeking an elevated lifestyle that includes high-end experiences and luxury accommodations.”