NEWS PHOTO JALYCE THOMPSON Several local restaurants and bars are planning a big night for Hatters looking to ring in the new decade.
Medicine Hat restaurants are preparing to give Hatters a place to party for New Year’s Eve.
Mark Albrecht, who’s owned Mauro’s Italian Cafe and Bar since 2016 with his wife Jodi Albrecht, said they’re continuing the annual New Year’s Eve party for 2020.
“It’s the start of a new year, it’s one of the most festive, busiest nights of the year, and people are generally quite happy for New Year’s Eve,” said Albrecht.
Albrecht said there are two seatings throughout the night. The earlier time is at 5 p.m., and the second is at 7 p.m., which is when the live entertainment begins as well.
“Mike Wilson as a soloist will be playing acoustic guitar between 7 and 9 p.m.,” said Albrecht, adding how amazed he is with the wide variety of talented musicians in Medicine Hat.
He said after 9 p.m. is when the dance begins with a retro ’80s band, The Hightops. However the party is not ’80s themed, Albrecht said, because Hatters like to dress up for the celebration.
Albrecht said the cafe and bar changes their menu accordingly for the occasion for guests to enjoy while listening to the music.
“We always try going fancier with our food on New Year’s Eve, and we have a special new years menu,” said Albrecht.
Albrecht said Mauro’s always has a party for Hatters to celebrate, and added that it’s always a pleasure to host.
Corinne Taylor, who’s worked at Elements Restaurant and Bar as a supervisor for six years, said the eatery has been organizing the New Year’s Eve party for more than six years.
“It’s a time for everyone to get together, friends, family, and loved ones to celebrate the good and bad things throughout the year,” said Taylor.
Taylor said the restaurant celebrates both the Canadian and British New Year’s – the British event is from 3-6 p.m., and the Canadian begins at 9 p.m., and both celebrations have live entertainment.
“The Availables start playing at 3 p.m., and they’re an upbeat folk band,” said Taylor. “The Straight Jackets come on at 9 p.m., and they’re a rock n’ roll, lively band that will have everyone on the dance floor.”
Taylor said the event is organized by both Elements Restaurant and Bar, and the Coulee Casino, and from 3-6 p.m., there will be free appetizers and party favours.
“It’s a place to bring in positive thoughts into the new year, to drown sorrows, and look forward to the future,” said Taylor.
Taylor said the bar decorates for the event, and she is happy to bring in the New Year with everyone celebrating at Elements Restaurant and Bar, and the Coulee Dam Casino.
