"Festive" was an understatement when
it came to the celebrations held in San Pedro to welcome the new year. Various
establishments of La Isla Bonita went out of their way to ensure their customers
a great time. The celebrations commenced as early as 11:00 a.m. at the Lions
Den, where members held a barbecue and advance ticket sale for their grand
raffle which was held that evening. The world famous Chicken Drop at the Pier
Lounge also celebrated in style as they increased the "Drop" to a whopping
$1000. Only one game was played with "Tabitha" winning all the loot. Lots of
free snacks were available, as well as party favors, confetti and other fun
paraphernalia. To toast the new year, the management of the Pier Lounge gave
away a free bottle of champagne to all who were present at
midnight. The tradition continued at the Purple Parrot Bar
with their annual New Year's Eve party at Ramon's Village. As expected, Jerry
Gilbreath and his able staff, under the management of Ruben Delgado, threw the
"house out of the window" with this year's party. The place was packed to
capacity as hundreds of residents and visitors enjoyed the great sounds of
ADAGIO 68, direct from Merida, Mexico. The rhythmic sounds of this band were a
treat for the many who even danced in the rain as they rang in the new year the
Purple Parrot way. Not far down the beach,
the San Pedro Holiday Hotel entertained their clients with a great 80s party.
This new twist attracted a large crowd that stopped to enjoy the island
hospitality at the Hangover Bar. Fun party favors were distributed to those who
came out to enjoy the evening. The always-original crew at Holiday substituted
the usual midnight champagne with "Kamikaze" shots to cheer the new year.
Other places in town also held similar parties, but the
traditional place to be on New Year's Eve was still the Lions annual dance. This
place had standing room only, but no one needed seating when Wil and the
Caribbean Shells were entertaining! It seemed everyone in San Pedro was there as
the dance floor was jammed with hundreds who came out to party with their
friends. As if this was not enough, the hardworking members of the Lions Club
also prepared hot soup, sandwiches, ceviche and other goodies for those who
needed to energize themselves after all the dancing that went on until
sunrise. The year 2001 was received in grand style in San
Pedro thanks to the great planning of these establishments that provided great
hospitality and fine festivities. Happy New Year to all!
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