No New Year’s Eve plans? This SLO County city will ring in 2025 with a massive bonfire

Thousands are expected to flock to downtown Paso Robles on New Year’s Eve to bask in the glow of a massive celebratory bonfire.

The city expects thousands of attendees at its third annual New Year’s Eve Celebration at the Downtown City Park on Tuesday, according to a news release.

The event was scheduled to run from 7 to 11 p.m., with a live countdown beginning at 9 p.m., to coincide with midnight on the East Coast. During the event, attendees can enjoy live music from the Lucky Devils Band, beer by Cal Coast Beer Co., cocktails by Paso Robles Distillery Trail, wine from the Wine Merchant and sparkling wine from Paso Secco, the release said.

The event will also feature a lineup of food vendors, as well as face painting and glitter tattoos for kids.

All proceeds from beverage sales will benefit Paso Robles Professional Firefighters Local 4148 and the Paso Robles Police Officer’s Association.

What to expect

The city anticipated a “bustling” downtown due to the event and urged attendees to plan ahead and allow extra time for parking and navigating through the area.

Attendees were reminded that no outside alcohol, chairs or dogs will be permitted in the event area.

There will be limited seating available along the southwest corner of the park, as well as picnic tables in the food truck zone, the release said.

People were also urged to dress warmly and “prepare for cooler evening temperatures,” according to the release.

Many downtown restaurants, cafes and shops were also expected to be open during the event, the release said.