Sounding off noisemakers and making resolutions, the guests of the annual Rochester Council on Aging New Year’s Eve party enthusiastically rang in the holiday foregoing a ball in favor of dropping balloons during the final countdown.

The countdown began on Friday around 2 p.m. when over 80 people packed inside the Council on Aging building bid farewell to 2011.

Inside the party the guests were treated to a three-course meal, alcohol-free cider and a table full of desserts, while a dozen volunteers worked the room serving the guests.

The 5th annual party first began nearly six years ago when Council on Aging director Sharon Lally took her position and decided the local residents deserved a party that they would enjoy – mainly no alcohol, no college students and not having to stay awake until midnight.

“I know it’s something that the seniors really enjoy, welcoming in the New Year, but they are not always in a position to go out late at night,” Lally said.  “This way we bring everyone together for a safe and fun time.”

Vice President of the Council’s Board of Directors, Bob Gulick volunteered to help cook the food and serve up the cider. Gulick, who also volunteered last year, said he noticed how much people seem to enjoy the party.

“They seem to like the variety of the foods, especially the desserts, and just getting together,” Gulick said.

Mattapoisett resident, Jean Szyndler, was a first-time Council on Aging partygoer and said she really enjoyed the lively atmosphere of the event. As for resolutions, Szyndler said she is going to be more patriotic.

“I’m going to buy more American-made products this year,” Szyndler said.

Rochester resident Dale Dakin had a simpler request of the New Year.

“I’m going to stay living,” Dakin joked.

The party, Lally said, is funded with donations made to the Council on Aging, which are put to good use during the few weeks she spent planning the event each year.

“It gets bigger every year,” Lally said. “They like to celebrate.”