The tenth New Year Gorham earned a solid “10” rating. It didn’t matter that it was cold outside (not quite as cold as year #1, but close) because Gorham people know NYG is always the “hottest” show in town for New Year’s Eve.

The event began at 3 p.m. with ice skating at USM and ended with a fabulous fireworks display at 9:15 p.m. Between those hours, approximately 500 folks had countless choices of fun ways to celebrate with family and friends.

Kids were fascinated by a science show and robotics demonstration, enthralled by the “wild” animals, and thoroughly entertained by puppets and not-so-dumb dummies. In addition, face painting, good cookies and hot chocolate never get old. This year, the Gorham Main Street Alliance gave each child (of any age up to 100) a surprise bag of party goodies, and there were lots of balloons to take home.

Adults enjoyed all kinds of music, from chorus, Acadian fiddling, to soft rock, and not so soft rock. Both Beatles tribute performances were a hit with all ages – who knew middle schoolers would love the same music their grandparents love? For those who enjoy a good laugh, improvisation always delivers, and this year’s improv fun was no exception.

Of course, good food is a must on New Year’s Eve, and there was no shortage of that. The robotics team not only demonstrated their robot, they offered snacks early in the afternoon and served a fabulous family-friendly meal in the high school cafeteria.

Magic and comedy ended the night with the audience wondering how a kid can float on air as they left the auditorium to see how fireworks float in the air.

The ice sculptures are beautiful and will remain until they melt as a reminder of Gorham’s awesome party to welcome 2018.