Make your New Year’s Eve “Clearly Different!”

Welp, it’s almost here again – the New Year. “Time flies when you’re having fun” as they say, and we’re always having a great time in Lake County (especially when you come to visit).

So naturally, we’re going to have a blast when we welcome 2026! You can too if you’re looking for something fun to do, so check out these “Clearly Different” ways to ring in the New Year – Lake County style!

Plan Your Way Into 2026!

Love to play at casinos? You’ve hit the jackpot! Lake County is home to some of the most exciting casino gaming in Northern California, so you have slots of choices for where to spend your evening! The Konocti Vista Casino features 250 slot machines, a full-service restaurant and snack bar, and even a family-friendly arcade for the kiddos (or your inner child) too, all with multiple motel rooms right on Clear Lake. Located a short distance away on the north shore of Clear Lake is Robinson Rancheria Resort, Casino, and Bingo, which boasts the largest casino floor in the county, as well as a 900-seat bingo facility.  Head down to Middletown for Twin Pine Casino & Hotel, featuring more than “25,000 square feet of action-packed paradise.” Best part? Each casino is open 24/7, so you’ll have plenty of luck finding fun for your New Year’s Eve celebration.

Spoil your tastebuds 

If you’re wanting to add some “yum” to your fun, you have come to the right place. Or should we say “places?” Not to brag, but Lake County is something of a foodie destination. With the wonders of mother nature all around, we have always been a feast for the senses. Now more than ever, we also offer a feast of flavors too! What better time to try something new than New Year’s Eve? On The Waterfront offers you just that, a cozy lakefront setting for you to embark on a culinary adventure through a globally inspired, progressive menu that celebrates the seasons. Speaking of seasons, the Saw Shop Public House also offers a seasonal menu, swimming in fresh seafood, meats, and game prepared with the finest local ingredients. Welcome 2026 by going back in time (the 1880’s to be exact) at the Blue Wing Restaurant on the historic Tallman Hotel property. This recreation of the town’s original saloon may take you back in time, but it features scrumptious California comfort food that is simply timeless.

Catch some Zzz’z

Whether your tastes are more traditional or run a bit wild, when it comes to lodging, we have whatever you’re looking for: farms, B&Bs, rentals, vineyards, hotels, motels, and inns – and even converted train cabooses too! With California’s clearest skies and the Milky Way galaxy as your night light, ring in the new year under the stars with one of our numerous camping options. Speaking of nature, our lineup of lodges and cabins keep you close to the woods, whatever your moods, with a wide range from rustic to luxury. Of course, this is New Year’s Eve we’re talking about, so there’s nothing wrong with living a little…or a lot. Nestled in the mountainous landscape, The Fainting Couch offers a maximalist boutique experience that blends Victorian with modern luxury.  No worries if you can’t quite make it to midnight (no judging here). Wherever you stay, you’ll be sure to get your beauty sleep to start the new year strong. 

Come and play on New Year’s Day!

So we gave you some tips on what to do on December 31 – but what about January 1? Don’t fret. There are so many “Clearly Different” ways to play on New Year’s Day (and any day, for that matter) in Lake County. Naturally, we have to give a shout out to Mother Nature for supplying the most activities, with 1,300 sq. mi. of natural paradise at your disposal. Get your adrenaline pumping by hiking Mount Konocti and soaking up the best views in the county. Cast your line and test your talent in the “The Bass Fishing Capital of the West,” Clear Lake, or grab your binos to see what you can spot with the best birdwatching in the area. Or just live the lake life, whatever that means to you. Sure, the weather is a little bit chillier, but the smiles are always warm, especially when paired with a glass from one of the award-winning wineries that have made us the fastest-growing destination in wine country. Just be sure to check their websites to make sure they’re open.

Thank you for making 2025 so special. Whether you came for a quick visit or stayed for a while, getting to see you is why we love to do what we do. And we can’t wait to see you again in 2026!

Have a wonderful new year, and here’s to another 365 days of staying “Clearly Different.” We’ll see ya when ya get here!  

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