DENVER (KDVR) — The streets of downtown Denver were packed Wednesday night as hundreds gathered to ring in the new year with fireworks, family-friendly events, and a renewed sense of energy along 16th Street.
The celebration marked the first New Year’s Eve since the mall reopened from its long-awaited renovation, and while official attendance numbers are still being finalized, business owners say the crowds were some of the largest they have seen in years.
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Fireworks launched from two downtown rooftops — one show at 9 p.m. and another at midnight — keeping people downtown for hours and drawing steady foot traffic into nearby restaurants and shops.
For businesses along the mall, the impact was immediate.
At The Yard Milkshake Bar, General Manager Shelly Gentry told FOX31 the store brought in just over $1,000 in sales last New Year’s Eve. This year, that number more than quadrupled to $4,200.
“It really felt like New Year’s was taking a step in the right direction,” Gentry said, calling the night a welcome sign of renewed foot traffic and community support after years of construction.
Nearby restaurants also reported long lines and full dining rooms throughout the evening, including Giordano’s, where staff said the restaurant stayed busy from early evening until closing.
City and tourism leaders have emphasized events like New Year’s Eve as key to bringing families, visitors, and residents back downtown and giving local businesses a much-needed boost.
Official attendance estimates are expected to be released later this week.
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