GORHAM – A five spot buys a New Year’s Eve reveler in Gorham Village an evening of family entertainment capped off with early fireworks.

Randy Judkins, who has performed worldwide, is a headliner this year with his comedy, juggling and unicycling. Junkins will perform 8-8:45 p.m. in the Performing Arts Center at Gorham High School, 41 Morrill Ave.

New Year’s Eve shows are scheduled at several venues around town, and a horse-drawn wagon will shuttle people to shows.

“All events are lined up and ready to go,” said Andrew McLean, who is coordinating volunteers for the annual shindig.

The $5 New Year Gorham buttons serve as passes into venues around town and, for families, a $20 pass is available. Buttons are available at several locations in Gorham Village and Gorham Recreation Department at the municipal center.

“We’re the one location that has a family pass,” said Gail Platts of Gorham Recreation Department and those passes are available through Friday, Dec. 30.

No one celebrates on a hungry stomach. New this year is a spaghetti supper, which kicks off the evening at 5 at the restored Odd Fellows Hall at the corner of School Street and College Avenue. The supper cost is $8 for adults; $4, children.

Fireworks have been moved up to 10 p.m. this year from the traditional midnight.

“This will allow families with young children to enjoy the entire celebration and be safely at home for a reasonable bedtime,” said Virginia Wilder Cross, New Year Gorham chairwoman. She added the fireworks show promises to be more spectacular than ever.

“The response to our decision to conclude New Year Gorham with an earlier fireworks display is overwhelmingly positive,’’ she said.

Entertainment highlights include Gorham’s own Don Roy Trio playing Acadian fiddle music; a yoyo champ; puppets; Irish stepdancers; magic; choral groups; variety show; jazz; and band music.

The New Year Gorham gnome, who danced in the street past years, is expected to make another personal appearance.

“New Year Gorham gets better every year,” Karen DiDonato, performance coordinator, said.

Besides the horse-drawn rides courtesy of Gorham Business Exchange, a wheelchair accessible van is sponsored by Home Instead Seniors Services. Fireworks is sponsored by Casco Federal Credit Union and Chalmers Insurance Group.

Organizers expect another large turnout as the annual event draws people from several surrounding communities.

McLean said last week button sales were running slightly ahead of last year.

“Last year, we did 80 percent of our sales on New Year’s Eve. People will be able to purchase buttons at each of the venues that night. We are watching the weather and hoping for a clear and not too cold New Year’s Eve,” said Cross.

Dan Grady’s Puppet Family take to the stage in Gorham to
entertain New Tear’s Eve. (Courtesy photo)