Are you looking for something different to do on New Year's Eve this year? If you are, the New Year's Eve Celebration at Fairy Stone State Park might just be the perfect way for you and you and yours to ring in the dawning of 2015.

Rockin' to a DJ at Fairy Stone's New Years Eve Celebration

A New Year's Eve Celebration to remember

My hubby and I rarely agree on how to spend New Year's Eve. I like to celebrate with friends, music and dancing. It doesn't feel like New Year's to me without the funny hats, horn blowing, and a little bubbly for a toast at midnight. My dear hubby, on the other hand, would rather have a more low key celebration. He prefers not to drive anywhere on New Year's Eve, and is perfectly content to stay home without any fanfare at all.

Last year we both had fun at Fairy Stone's New Year's Eve Celebration, and we both got to have it our way. We enjoyed lovely refreshments and festive decorations thanks to Bessie and the staff at Fairy Stone. We also had party hats, horns to blow, and a rockin' DJ for dancing the night away, with Fayerdale Hall Conference Center's huge fireplace as the scenic back drop.

At the stroke of midnight we watched as the ball dropped in Times Square on the flat screen TV. It almost felt as if we were there as the shower of confetti came down and the horns blew. That is, except for the fact that we were not standing out in the cold with throngs of people, we hadn't paid hundreds of dollars to have the experience, and we didn't have to wait in line for anything.

Refreshments are served at the celebration in Fayerdale Hall

What you need to know

Admission to the celebration is only $10 per person, including heavy hors d'oeuvres, punch, and party favors. This event is not suitable for children, and you may bring your own adult beverage if you desire. To reserve your space for the New Year's Eve Celebration, call the park office at 276-930-2424. They accept MasterCard and VISA.

Our cabin was cozy at Fairy Stone

A cozy cabin for the night

After the merriment, we simply headed over to our cozy cabin right there in the park. No waiting in line, no traffic, it was just us with the stars and the moonlight, and the cabin fireplace awaiting us. For cabin reservations, click here.

Starting the new year off right with a First Day Hike

A First Day Hike

On New Year's Day, we started off on the right foot with Fairy Stone's First Day Hike. Ranger Charlene introduced us to the trail with stories of moonshining and iron mining from back in the day. Then we enjoyed a vigorous hike on the Iron Mine Trail. A similar hike is being offered again this year. And remember that Virginia State Parks has a First Day Hikes team challenge and photo contest.

This was one New Year's celebration that suited both of us, and I think you'll like it too. It was the perfect mix of festive fun and quiet relaxation, with a little outdoor recreation thrown in too.

Make plans now to spend New Year's at Fairy Stone. It's perfect for you and your significant other, or you and a few of your girlfriends. I highly recommend it.

How to get there:

Fairy Stone State Park is located in Patrick County near Martinsville, VA, just about an hour from Roanoke, Danville, or Winston-Salem.