The city of Ludington is ringing in the New Year with more than just fireworks—it’s officially home to the best New Year’s Eve ball drop in the country. Voted #1 in the USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, Ludington’s New Year’s Eve celebration surpassed some major competitors, including the Times Square Ball Drop, which came in at #10.
For 15 years, Ludington has been hosting its now-iconic New Year’s Eve Ball Drop, an event that draws thousands of visitors to the lakeshore town each year. As the only Michigan destination among the 20 nominated cities, Ludington earned the top spot in a competition that spanned coast to coast, beating out unique drops like the Idaho Potato Drop, the Pierogi Drop, and the Pickle Drop.
“Ludington’s New Year’s Eve Ball Drop is one of our top two most attended events, a perennial favorite that attracts thousands of people annually,” said Brandy Miller, executive director of the Ludington Area Convention & Visitors Bureau. “We are ecstatic to be recognized nationally for this honor, and we encourage everyone to come to Ludington later this month to experience the best ball drop firsthand!”
A Magical Celebration on the Shore
Ludington’s New Year’s Eve Ball Drop takes place at Legacy Plaza, offering a festive street party that includes a live DJ, local craft beer, wine, and food. The event kicks off at 9 p.m., with Ludington Avenue closed to traffic and transformed into a pedestrian-only zone. With heaters scattered around and a large, crackling fireplace in the plaza, attendees can enjoy the chilly winter night while staying warm.
The night culminates with the ball drop at midnight, marked by a dazzling display of fireworks and the glow of 6,000 LED lights on the event’s signature ball. For those attending, the fun doesn’t stop there. After the ball drop, many of Ludington’s local businesses, including restaurants, bars, and shops, stay open late, offering a cozy refuge from the cold.
“The New Year’s Eve Ball Drop in Ludington, Michigan, combines the charm of a small-town celebration with the excitement of a grand countdown,” said USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards editor Maggie Tyner. “Our readers clearly enjoy the welcoming, festive atmosphere that celebrates the new year with joy and camaraderie.”
Family-Friendly Fun and More
For families with young children, Ludington also offers several other New Year’s Eve activities. The Sandcastles Children’s Museum hosts a family-friendly Balloon Drop from 5 to 8 p.m., complete with snacks, face painting, and House of Flavors ice cream. Tickets for the event are $60 for an immediate family or $15 per person.
Meanwhile, the Mason County District Library will host a New Year’s Eve party from 8:30 to 11:30 p.m., featuring light snacks, games, and crafts for kids. The library’s event is free, making it an accessible option for families on a budget.
For those looking to keep the celebration going well into the night, Timbers Prime will host an after-party from 12:30 to 4 a.m. with live music and late-night food. The fun doesn’t end with New Year’s Eve, either—Ludington kicks off 2025 with the New Year’s Resolution Run 5K, which will take place on January 1 at 11 a.m.
A Long History of Recognition
Ludington’s New Year’s Eve Ball Drop isn’t the town’s only accolade. Just months earlier, in April 2024, Ludington was named “Best Historic Small Town” by USA Today 10Best, the only Michigan city to make the list of 20 towns with populations under 25,000. This recognition, coupled with the recent win for Best New Year’s Eve Drop, cements Ludington’s reputation as a standout destination for travelers looking to experience the charm of Michigan’s Lakeshore.
For more information about Ludington’s New Year’s Eve celebrations, visit PureLudington.com or follow the Ludington Area Convention & Visitors Bureau on social media.
Lodging and Transportation
For visitors, accommodations are available throughout the area, with several lodging specials offered for New Year’s Eve. Additionally, six local companies will provide free, safe rides for those who plan to drink and celebrate responsibly.
Whether you’re ringing in the New Year with fireworks or spending time with family, Ludington’s New Year’s Eve Ball Drop has something for everyone—just one more reason why this historic town on the shores of Lake Michigan continues to earn national acclaim.
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