Experience Flagstaff’s unique New Year’s Eve tradition at the Weatherford Hotel, where the glowing Pinecone Drop brings together community, history, and winter magic.
For more than twenty years, the Pinecone Drop has brought a special kind of magic to New Year’s Eve in Flagstaff, Arizona. Kicking off in 1999 to mark both the Weatherford Hotel’s century milestone and the dawning of the new millennium, this quirky yet iconic celebration has grown into a beloved Arizona tradition. Each December 31st, locals and travelers gather outside the historic Weatherford Hotel, watching as a six-foot, LED-lit pinecone is lowered from the rooftop—ushering in the new year, Flagstaff style.
Celebrating Flagstaff’s Legacy with a Twist
The Pinecone Drop is more than just an event; it’s a testament to Flagstaff’s distinctive character, melding a love for local heritage with a taste for the unique. The Weatherford Hotel, established in 1897 by pioneer John W. Weatherford, has stood witness to Flagstaff’s transformation from a rugged railroad town into a cultural and artistic gem in the high mountain desert. It’s fitting that this symbol of Flagstaff’s pioneering roots takes center stage in a celebration as spirited as the community itself. Inspired by the classic New York ball drop, the Pinecone Drop adds a Southwestern twist, paying homage to Northern Arizona’s iconic ponderosa pines and the town’s connection to the land around it.
An Event for All Ages and Stages
One of the charms of the Pinecone Drop is its inclusivity. Flagstaff’s take on New Year’s Eve has a unique setup: an early drop at 10 p.m. for families with younger kids and those who don’t want to stay out until midnight, followed by the main event at the stroke of twelve. This double celebration lets everyone join the fun, no matter their schedule or stamina.
But the Pinecone Drop is about more than a countdown. The Weatherford Hotel throws its doors open with live music, tasty bites, and local brews, giving guests a cozy spot to warm up while mingling with other revelers. Outside, the streets come alive with celebration, community, and the unmistakable buzz that brings people back year after year.
Flagstaff’s Unique Identity in One Glowing Pinecone
The illuminated pinecone isn’t just a quirky novelty—it’s a symbol of Flagstaff’s essence. Measuring six feet and lit with hundreds of LEDs, this pinecone represents the ponderosa forests that make this region so iconic. Its descent mirrors the grounded spirit of Flagstaff itself, a place where history, community, and nature converge. For locals, it’s a heartfelt nod to the town’s heritage; for visitors, it’s an invitation to experience Flagstaff’s authentic warmth and charm.
Why the Pinecone Drop Should Be on Your New Year’s Bucket List
If you’re looking for a new way to welcome the year, the Pinecone Drop offers something for everyone. Picture this: crisp mountain air, Flagstaff’s winter beauty, the communal joy of an open-air celebration, and maybe a warm drink to cap it all off. From the lively crowd outside to the cozy fireside seats inside the Weatherford Hotel, the Pinecone Drop is a unique blend of excitement and coziness, tradition and fun.
So, if you’re in search of a memorable way to celebrate, make your way to Flagstaff this December 31st. Join in as Flagstaff rings in the new year with a countdown and a pinecone, embracing the rich heritage, natural beauty, and sense of unity that make this town a destination like no other.
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GreenPharms is more than just a dispensary. We are a family-owned and operated company that cultivates, processes, and sells high-quality cannabis products in Arizona. Whether you are looking for medical or recreational marijuana, we have something for everyone. From flower, edibles, concentrates, and topicals, to accessories, apparel, and education, we offer a wide range of marijuana strains, products and services to suit your needs and preferences. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff are always ready to assist you and answer any questions you may have. Visit our dispensaries in Mesa and Flagstaff, or shop online and get your order delivered to your door. At GreenPharms, we are cultivating a different kind of care.
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