Bing in the New Year: Milwaukie Celebrates 2026 with a Family-Friendly Cherry Drop

Published on December 23, 2025

As the New Year approaches, Milwaukie, Oregon, is preparing to mark the occasion in a truly distinctive and festive way with its third annual Bing in the New Year celebration. Scheduled for December 31, 2025, this free, family-friendly event will take place from 6 to 9 pm at the Milwaukie Farmers Market lot, located at 10723 SE Main St. The event promises to be a delightful mix of entertainment, culture, and fun for all ages, offering something for everyone in the community to enjoy. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the event is a must-see to ring in 2026 with a cherry-themed twist.

A Tribute to Milwaukie’s Cherry Heritage

The highlight of the evening will be the much-anticipated Bing cherry drop, a unique twist on the traditional New Year’s Eve ball drop. At 9 pm, a giant 7-foot, lighted Bing cherry will slowly descend 60 feet by crane, creating a breathtaking spectacle for attendees of all ages. This East Coast Midnight event, celebrated three hours ahead of the ball drop in New York City, offers families a chance to experience the excitement of New Year’s Eve with an earlier countdown suitable for children and those who prefer an earlier bedtime.

This cherry drop is not just a quirky tradition; it is a deep-rooted tribute to Milwaukie’s agricultural history. The town is famously the birthplace of the Bing cherry, a variety that was first cultivated in the 1880s by Chinese nursery foreman Ah Bing. The Bing cherry, which bears his name, is known for its deep, rich color and sweet taste, and Milwaukie proudly honors its historic connection to this beloved fruit. The cherry drop is a fitting celebration of this heritage, drawing attention to both the town’s agricultural legacy and the role that Bing played in shaping the fruit industry.

Live Music, Cultural Performances, and Vibrant Entertainment

As the evening unfolds, attendees will be treated to an exciting lineup of live music and cultural performances that bring both fun and diversity to the event. The Radio Shack, a popular local band, will take the stage, bringing energetic tunes and a vibrant atmosphere. Their performance is sure to keep spirits high and feet tapping throughout the night.

In addition to the music, visitors will be able to enjoy traditional performances from the Oregon Chinese Coalition and International Lion Dance. These cultural acts will provide a lively showcase of the region’s multicultural heritage and will feature captivating dances and drumming performances that reflect the deep-rooted traditions of the Chinese community in the area. The stunning lion dance is a highlight, as performers don vibrant, elaborate costumes to bring the traditional art to life. These performances will not only entertain but also educate attendees about Milwaukie’s diverse cultural landscape.

Fun for Families and Local Vendors

For families, the event will be packed with activities that will keep children engaged and entertained throughout the evening. Children can participate in a variety of fun-filled craft activities, engage with a balloon artist creating fun shapes, and enjoy other kid-friendly entertainment. The event is designed to ensure that everyone, from toddlers to adults, has a memorable time as they count down to the New Year together.

In addition to entertainment, there will be a wide range of local food and drink vendors on-site, offering tasty treats and refreshments. For the adults, there will be a selection of craft beer from local breweries such as pFriem Brewing and Migration Brewing, adding a local flavor to the celebration. These breweries are known for their high-quality beers, and attendees can enjoy sipping on their favorite brews as they enjoy the live entertainment and festivities.

Afterparty at B-Side Records & Vintage

Once the cherry has dropped and the clock strikes nine, the celebration continues at B-Side Records & Vintage, located in Milwaukie. The venue will host an afterparty starting at 9 pm, offering guests the opportunity to keep the fun going well into the night. The afterparty will feature live music from Pelican Skeleton, a band known for their eclectic mix of sounds that are sure to keep the energy up. Whether you’re in the mood for dancing, mingling, or enjoying some great tunes, the afterparty at B-Side Records is the perfect way to continue ringing in the New Year with friends and fellow revelers.

A Celebration of Community and Agriculture

The Bing in the New Year event is not just a celebration of the changing year; it is a tribute to the town’s agricultural roots and the cultural significance of the Bing cherry. Milwaukie takes great pride in its historical ties to the Bing cherry, which helped put the town on the map in the late 19th century. Today, the Bing cherry remains an important symbol of Milwaukie’s identity, representing not only the town’s agricultural history but also the broader contributions of its diverse community members.

As the event continues to grow, it serves as an annual reminder of Milwaukie’s spirit of unity and community pride. The event showcases the hard work of local organizers, the creativity of local performers, and the dedication of vendors who come together to create an experience that is fun, inclusive, and celebratory. Bing in the New Year is a true reflection of Milwaukie’s charm, where community and heritage come together in the most spectacular way.

Mark Your Calendar for a Memorable Evening

With a combination of tradition, fun, and community spirit, Milwaukie’s Bing in the New Year event promises to be an unforgettable way to ring in 2026. Whether you’re there to see the cherry drop, enjoy the live performances, or indulge in delicious local food and drinks, the celebration offers something for everyone. This New Year’s Eve, come to Milwaukie and experience a one-of-a-kind event that celebrates the past, the present, and the future of this vibrant Oregon town.