Many of us have faced challenges in 2021 and are ready to turn the page. We look forward to new experiences and joys, even though there are no guarantees. On December 31 we celebrate the past and welcome the future. To do this, New Year Gorham offers a variety of performers and experiences.

Our family-friendly event has perennial favorites, Wildlife Encounters and Mad Science, doing presentations for children at the Shaw Gym complex. When done there, walk across Robie Park to the high school for supper (prepared and sold by the Northern Force Robotics Team). Or, shake a leg in one of the workshops done by the Dance Studio of Maine.

On the stage of the McCormack Performing Arts Center you will find a series of acts featuring both local talent and some from away. Do you like Broadway musicals? Jonas Rimkunas will sing favorite songs from those. Franco-American fiddling? The Don Roy Trio is back, this year with some young guests, the Arnotts. Want to support Gorham’s own? The GHS Chamber Singers and Jazz Band will be here.

We all have stories to tell, so it’s good to learn to listen. Internationally acclaimed storyteller Antonio Rocha will be back to entertain and encourage. And magician Matt Roberts will make things appear — or disappear. His program of laughter and “Wow!” will take us to a favorite conclusion — fireworks!

Bring your family. Bring your friends. Come find some new friends. And do bring your mask. Because we care about a healthy community, we are requiring masks to be worn in all indoor spaces. We consider it our part in helping our neighbors have fun and not get sick. Please see our detailed ad elsewhere in this issue.

See you New Year’s Eve!