Some people like to stay home on New Year's, but for those who are looking for a fun evening out, the land of Oz does not disappoint.  This is Wisconsin, of course, so if you're doing the tavern scene, the Ozaukee Taxi will run for free from 9 p.m. to 4 a.m. anywhere in Oz -- just call 284-TAXI (8294).  

Here are the details, by community:

Cedarburg

The Roadhouse Bar & Grill kicks off their New Year's party with live music by Cherry Pie at 10 p.m.  Party favors, hors d'oeuvres, and a champagne toast and balloon drop at midnight are part of the fun.   Designated drivers and rooms at the Hampton Inn in Grafton are available to keep everyone safe!

The Stilt House in Cedarburg is celebrating their 4 year anniversary on New Year's Eve.  Call for reservations at (262) 618-4889.

Port Washington

Twisted Willow has a special New Year's menu served from 2- 10 p.m.  Reservations are suggested at(262) 268-7600.  

The Pasta Shoppe is serving from 4 p.m. -9 p.m. New Years Eve, with special entrees.  Reservations strongly encouraged: 262.284.9311

Sir James Pub will have hats and party favors, a champagne toast at midnight, and snacks out all evening, and the new Rascal's pub will have complimentary party favors and champagne at midnight, as well.

Newport Shores is serving dinner from 2 p.m.-10 p.m. on New Year's Eve, with specials including South African Gold Water Lobster Tails, Alaskan King Crab Legs, and Prime Rib, along with a champagne toast at midnight.

Waubeka

The Islands at Waubeka Firehall will have a New Year's Eve Special of 10 oz New York strip or 10 oz boneless rib eye with four jumbo grilled shrimp, choice of potatoes and soup and salad bar for only $14.95 from 2 - 7 p.m.

Saukville

The Firehouse Restaurant has live music by Jim Bathke, as well as a special menu for the evening.  Make your reservations by calling 284-8886.

If you're looking for a brisk way to start your New Year's Day, you can always take a dip in Lake Michigan with the Polar Bears at 2 p.m.  in Port Washington's Harbor.  You won't find me there, but have at it.  If you want to get outside in a more normal way, try the First Day Hike at Harrington Beach State Park.  Much dryer.

Happy New Year, everyone!

When summer comes to Oz, the music begins.  Live music.  Outdoors.  Family friendly.  I can't think of a better way to spend a summer evening.  Here's the lineup for the summer concert series:

Summer Sounds  On Friday nights, beginning at 7 p.m., Cedar Creek Park comes alive with music lovers of all ages.  Bring a blanket or chairs.  Food and drinks are available to purchase, or bring your own.  The playground next to the newly finished band shell is the perfect place for when the kids get bored, or take a stroll along Cedar Creek while the music plays.

Freeport Music Festival  On Friday in June 24th, July 22nd, and August 19th, the band shell at Veteran's Park on the shores of Lake Michigan is the place to be.  The music starts at 7 p.m. with an opening act, followed by the headliner at 8:30.  There is a variety of food and soft drinks for sale, as well as beer and wine choices available for purchase from the Port Washington Yacht Club, or bring your own.  There is also a playground for the kids to blow off some steam.

​Live at the Triangle  This concert series in the heart of downtown Saukville happens on Wednesday nights from 7-9:30 p.m. throughout the summer.  Food and beverages are available to purchase at the park, and every concert is "Cruise Night," so bring your hot rod if you've got it!

GALA in the Park Concert Series  Starting Thursday, July 7th and continuing through Thursday, August 25th, the Grafton Area Live Arts presents concerts from 6:30 - 9:00 p.m. (or later for some). Concerts are held in Veteran's Memorial Park in Grafton along the Milwaukee River.  Food is available to purchase from John's Pizzaria of Grafton, and the Grafton Lion's Club sells popcorn and beverages.

The Patio at Newport Shores  Newport Shores is the only restaurant on the lakefront in Ozaukee County, and there outdoor stage sees an amazing lineup of artists all summer long, including an Open Mic Night every Thursday evening.

Of course, there are a variety of festivals happening throughout Oz over the summer, and live music is always on the agenda!

Gathering on the Green  This yearly concert at Rotary Park in Mequon focuses on fun for the whole family, and usually attracts pretty big name artists.  This year, the headliner is none other than Huey Lewis and the News on Friday, July 15th, while the Kids From Wisconsin and the Starliner Big Band will take the stage on Saturday the 16th.  Families can get in free with a food donation on Saturday this year, and the evening culminates with the Green's signature musical fireworks!

Hot Rods N Blues  On the last weekend in June each year, Rods-n-Relics Car Club hosts a car, truck & motorcycle show at Lime Kiln Park in Grafton, Wisconsin called Hot Rods ‘N Blues. This year, The Incorruptibles kick off the event with a set from 11:00am-1:00pm on Sunday, June 26th. Headlining the event is the “Braille Blues Daddy” Bryan Lee. His set is from 1:30pm-3:30pm.

Strawberry Festival  You'll find music every which way you turn at this annual event in downtown Cedarburg, happening the weekend of June 25th and 26th, but especially at the Gruber Law Office Main Stage next to the Festival Food Court which will feature rockin’ fun cover bands like Our House and Life in a Tree.

Grillin' in Grafton  This annual festival takes place at Lime Kiln Park, along the Milwaukee River, the first weekend in July, and is billed as Wisconsin's number one BBQ Festival.  A BBQ competition, parade, fireworks, and plenty of live music is on the agenda.

Fish Day  Billed as the "World's Largest One Day Outdoor Fish Fry," Fish Day in Port Washington is celebrating its 52nd year this July 16th.  The music headliners are of a Country Music type, featuring Josh Thompson, WAMI award winner Nora Collins, and Road Crew.

Ozaukee County Fair  One of the last free fairs in the Midwest, the Ozaukee County Fair is an excellent place to catch some live music.  Happening August 3rd through the 7th, the Fair kicks off its 157th year with the likes of the Charlie Daniels Band, the Whiskeybelles, and Pat McCurdy, among others.  With five stages of music, you're sure to find something you like.

Luxembourg Fest  An ethnic festival like no other, Luxembourg Festival in Belgium takes place August 12th through the 14th at the Belgium Community Park.  You don't have to be a Luxembourger to attend (though it probably helps).  A parade, fireworks, car show, kid's zone, craft fair, live music (featuring the headliner, Uprising, on Friday night), and more are sure to please even the non-Luxembourgers among us.   

Paramount Blues Festival  The festival comes to Port Washington's Coal Dock Park this year, over Labor Day Weekend, and is sure to be a hit.  The list of musical talent is long, and continues to grow.  This should be the perfect end to a long and glorious summer of live music in Oz.