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2004 New Year’s Eve Celebrations in Downtown Madison:

Takin’ it Downtown in 2004

by Jonathan Gramling

The weather seemed pretty mild on December 31 in Downtown Madison. While some may want to attribute it to global warming, on this night, it could have been due to all the action that was cooking around the Capitol Square. Horse-drawn wagons filled with children singing 'Happy New Year' leisurely traipsed through the cool night air. Revelers casually strolled from celebration to celebration.

It all began at the U.S. Bank Plaza where the hayrides began and helium-filled balloons seemed to float everywhere. As people waited in line to have their faces painted, AreaMen belted out classic 80s rock. Over at the Wisconsin Historical Museum, David HB Drake played holiday songs and historical ballads in troubadour style while children created their own New Year's hats. Children played at the Madison Children's Museum, their frenzied pace fueled by the dance music spun by DJ Jim McGaw.

Monona Terrace was filled with revelers during the early part of the evening. Rick Wilcox thrilled a packed house in the Madison Ballroom with his enthralling magical tricks. The Truly Remarkable Loon stole the show with his feats of balance and verve in the Grand Terrace while OD TAO IMI filled the Hall of Ideas with their Caribbean rhythms and dance beat. An inflatable gym and a micro golf course filled out the fun at the Terrace.

At 10 p.m., the family-oriented portion of the evening came to a close with the dynamic fireworks display shot off the U.S. Bank Plaza by Thundercat Fireworks. Even veteran fireworks observers had to 'ooh and aah' at the brilliant and intense colors on display.

Dozens of smaller celebrations were held near the square in establishments both public and private. Outreach's Pink Party drew hundreds to the Madison Civic Center where comedian Vickie Shaw kept them laughing.

A Hip-Hop New Year's Eve, produced by Adem, was just a hop across the street at the Orpheum Theater. Bands such as Que Flavor played from the stage. Rick Flowers also performed.

DJ Trini had everyone dancing at the Inn on the Park with classics from the 1960s and 1970s.

There was something for everyone and for everyone, a good night!