New Year’s Eve Ball Drop Fundraising

Every New Year’s Eve since 1989, the Marquette Downtown Development Authority has held a ball drop from the Savings Bank building at Front and Washington Streets.

The fundraising effort to put on the event often comes down to the last minute.

But the DDA hasn’t had to raise as much money for the ball drop this year as usual.

DDA executive director Mona Lang says the city of Marquette has helped out by providing a $1,200 break on fees for services like extra police protection and road closures.

This year’s fundraising goal was just $2,000.

A donation from VAST of Marquette put the DDA over the top this afternoon.

Many others have helped out, like the Marquette Country Convention and Visitors Bureau, Upper Peninsula Health Plan, Casa Calabria and the Landmark Inn.

Border Grill, Remie’s and the Verabar have also given this year’s ball drop their financial support.

The alcohol–free event usually attracts 5,000 people or more.