New Year's Eve at The Aviator: A Night on the Runways
By Mitch Allen
When we asked Khadar Soussou, president and co-owner of The Aviator Event Center and Pub, what his plans were for the event center’s annual New Year’s Eve bash, he replied, “This year we’ve decided to just blow it out of the water. It’s going to be best party in Cleveland.”
Best, and maybe the biggest, too. This year Khadar and his team are opening the entire 30,000-square-foot facility to the party, which will feature different entertainment options in different areas throughout The Aviator.
“The party will flow through the entire center and into our four party rooms, “Khadar explains. “There will be awesome entertainment plus chef’s grazing stations featuring food from around the world. It will be an unforgettable night of glamour.”
It all begins when the doors open at 8 p.m. and arriving guests are dazzled by Sophia the Fire Performer’s captivating display of fiery artistry. Entertainment includes live music by Cleveland party band We Are the Radio; a speakeasy lounge with pianists and vocals by Don DiSantis; Wes, the Sleight of Hand Magician offering his illusions all night long; and a silent disco room by Ohio DJ Pros. If you’re unfamiliar with this hottest dance trend, it’s only silent because partygoers are dancing to music through individual wireless headphones.
The massive New Year’s Eve party will also feature a bubbly champagne room, photo booths to capture the moments, late-night snacks, plus hats, noisemakers and party balloons.
And because this is The Aviator, it will all go down adjacent to the lighted runways of Cleveland Hopkins International Airport.
Early bird tickets to the hottest New Year’s Eve party in Cleveland are $135 now through November 25. After that date, tickets are $165. You can purchase yours at AviatorCLE.com.
Dream Weddings and Events
Many couples become engaged over the holidays and The Aviator has become the go-to venue for weddings. It’s popular in part because of its stunning décor, but also because it is a one-stop shop. Everything you need to bring your dream wedding to life is right there.
“We take care of everything,” Khadar says. “And we are always looking ahead and making investments in the latest technology, including spectacular lightening. Every day we’re adding more services to make your fairytale wedding happen within our four walls. And we have a phenomenal team of professionals who focus on the design and execution of the day. We always try to say ‘yes’ to brides, and I feel comfortable making promises because I know my team will make it happen.”
The Aviator is so popular, the team is now hosting weddings Thursdays through Sundays, even in the winter.
“Saturdays in the summer are in high demand, so couples are looking for alternatives,” Khadar says. “And we are right there for them. Other days of the week at other times of the year are growing in popularity. It’s easier to find a venue and it’s often more affordable that way. Our brides and grooms are looking forward to one key moment—when they can go to sleep one night and know for certain they have a wedding date.”
Although Khadar’s chefs and event staff can create a customized menu for your reception, popular choices include braised beef short ribs, herb-crusted lemon chicken, and filet mignon with your choice of Maryland-style crab cake or chargrilled salmon.
“The menu possibilities are endless,” Khadar says.
In addition to weddings, The Aviator hosts parties, family events and corporate gatherings, including meetings, retreats, team-building exercises and even murder mysteries. “We like to get out of the box to help companies build and strengthen their culture, whatever that may be,” Khadar says. “And with four different event spaces available, we can customize your event based on size and theme.”
Dining In An Igloo
The Aviator’s scratch-kitchen restaurant is open to the public for lunch and dinner seven days a week. While the menu features both fine dining and affordable American classics, it’s the view of the planes taking off and landing that makes The Aviator so special. The experience is best enjoyed outside where the planes are flying directly overhead. That experience usually ends when the snow flies, but not this year because, well, igloos.
“This year we’re introducing clear igloos that allow are guests to enjoy patio dining in comfort and with great views of the planes landing,” Khadar says. “Each igloo is heated and seats eight guests.”
Igloo space is limited, so it’s best to call early to reserve yours.
And speaking of early reservations, start thinking now about The Aviator’s popular brunch buffets on Mother’s Day and Easter Sunday.
The Aviator Event Center & Pub is at 20920 Brookpark Road in Cleveland next to Cleveland Hopkins International Airport. For lunch or reservations or to schedule a tour of the facility, call 216-770 5300 or visit AviatorCLE.com.