Thanksgiving Eve is one of the biggest party nights of the year, and local bars are hoping this year equals big money in a cutback economy.
The night is fueled mostly by college students returning home for the holidays. For many it may be the first time they’re seeing their hometown friends since they’ve left, the last chance they have to let loose before final exam time begins, and almost everyone has the next day off.
“It’s very important,” said Ryan Bohr, manager of the . “A good night here makes up for a bad week, maybe two.”
Velvet Lounge will have four DJs spinning for the event. The $10 cover charge includes free buffet and drink specials.
Bohr said that the lounge ordered extra cases of beer, liquor, and kegs and believes his bar won’t run out. "We want people to come down and spend money," Bohr stated, "but we also want the customers to be happy. We want them to come back."
Country Corner has a more proactive approach; they’re rearranging the entire setup to maximize space. Some tables and chairs will be taken removed and regular customers may be surprised to see the new and improved layout.
“Hopefully it’s one of the biggest nights of the year for us,” said Ben Saraydarian, the owner of who took over from his late father last year and will be in charge of his first true Thanksgiving Eve tonight. “If you don’t have a big night on the nights that should be big, it puts pressure on you the rest of the month.”
is preparing for the night with a DJ and drink specials with a $20 cover charge. The bar is ready with extra staff and is all stocked up with beer, liquor, and food.
“It’s definitely a top five night,” manager Pat Haufie said. “Thanksgiving Eve is right up there with St. Patrick’s Day.”
