Confetti, Sparklers, Champagne. Oh My!

Written by Katie Vargas

Goodbye 2025 and hello 2026!

What a year it has been. Truly. Through the highs, the lows and every “wait, what just happened?” moment of 2025, you made it to the finish line and into a brand-new chapter. That alone is worth celebrating. New Year’s Eve is more than sparkly parties and a perfectly timed champagne pop. It’s a moment to acknowledge growth and honor the achievements you’ve worked all year for. As we welcome the new year, a few of your favorite Old Mill District shops are adding their own festive touches to help you celebrate.

Start your day of new beginnings with a stroll along the Deschutes River Trail with a hot cup of joe and a flaky croissant from M’s Bakery. It is a perfect chance to breathe in the fresh air, reflect on your 2025 journey and prepare for a night of festivities. Share a smile with friendly trail-goers and you might even get to boop the nose of a furry four-legged friend.

Once you’re back in the plaza, stop by Anthropologie for a New Year’s Eve shopping spree that will have you ready for the countdown. From glittering dresses and sparkling earrings to beaded purses and faux-fur jackets, the store is full of glamorous pieces that are made to steal the spotlight. New Year’s is the time to embrace your inner diva and strut your stuff as if the paparazzi are watching. The celebration doesn’t stop with your outfit, either. Anthropologie also offers festive décor to set the scene for a dazzling afterparty, from shimmering paper stars and elegant dessert platters to crystal champagne flutes, velvety bows and confetti party poppers. With chic details like these, your night is already off to a stylish start.

For an iconic New Year’s Eve party vibe, Lady Bird Cultural Society is hosting its New Year’s Eve Soiree, a celebration packed full of wow factors. Put on your best party outfit (there is no such thing as too many sequins, just saying), and waltz your way into the soirée of the season. The evening features a four-course menu for 95 dollars per guest.

Highlights include Bone Marrow Custard Tarts, Wood Fired Beets, Scallops and Short Rib, and Lady Bird Dessert Trios. You can even level up with party favor add-ons, wine pairings, or a bubble bar passport packed with a variety of sparkling pours. And of course, Lady Bird’s signature hand-crafted cocktails will be flowing. Guests can also expect a round of New Year’s toasts, prizes and live music from two different artists! Reservations are available now on the Lady Bird website and spots will fill up fast.

Turn your “I’ll start tomorrow” resolutions into “I’m doing the dang thing” with the help of the Old Mill District –

Orangetheory Fitness is ready to welcome new workout members who want to stay active in the year ahead. Moving your body is good for the mind and soul and even better with a friend beside you. If you prefer barre strength and balance training, Barre3 Bend in the Mill A building is ready for your 2026 fitness goals.

Over at Kara’s Kitchen, you can sign up for a hands-on cooking class with Kara herself. There is no better time than the new year to bring that “try new recipes” resolution to life. If you need a sweet twist or a fiery kick for your next culinary adventure, Savory Spice right next door has everything you need.

If exploring a new hobby is on your 2026 wish list, Confluence Fly Shop has fly-tying classes that guide you step by step toward becoming an expert Central Oregon fisherman. For those wanting to embrace the mountains, REI Co-op has everything you need, from snowboards and skis to all the bindings you will need to tackle the slopes.

Prefer to stay indoors? GameStop has a constantly rotating selection of video games, consoles, trading cards and more. Level up your gaming skills this year by starting your Nintendo Switch 2 journey. If you want to embrace a more artistic hobby in the new year, swing by Sephora and dive into vibrant, colorful makeup that can elevate your look and help you become a walking work of art.  It’s never too late to try something new and make 2026 your most adventurous year yet.

Last but certainly not least, the Old Mill District is packed with local shops and small businesses. Make 2026 the year to shop local, shop sustainably, and treat yourself along the way. Then, when it’s time to ring in the new year, the District is ready to help you celebrate in style.

Whether you turn in early or stay awake for the famous ball drop, the Old Mill District is here to help you celebrate the beginning of 2026 with flair. Raise a glass to new beginnings, to the adventures ahead, and a year full of fun at the Old Mill District. *Mic drop*