If your plan is to start the year with stories worth telling, New Years Eve 2026 in Muncie, USA might just be your best first stop. Amid the bustling roads and secluded spots, the city wraps the New Year in a blend of heritage and joy. Think lively energy, midnight magic, and that inner nod of “I made the right call.” Ready?
Hidden Gems to Watch Fireworks on New Years Eve 2026 in Muncie, USA
Not all great views are on the map — unlock exclusive NYE 2026 Fireworks spots in Muncie, USA, CLICK HERE
There’s a distinct kind of charge in the air as the closing stretch of December 31st draw to a close in Muncie, USA. The atmosphere subtly shifts—crowds slowly gather, talk and laughter increase, and expectation rises with every second. What truly amplifies the moment is knowing that, nestled in unexpected places, certain corners make the experience feel even more personal and memorable.
Don’t miss the early magic — found a pre-fireworks experience that leads you right into the heart of New Years Eve 2026 in Muncie, USA celebration. CLICK HERE
Locals often tend to head for certain accessible spaces that offer an uninterrupted view of the horizon. They won’t appear in any tourist book, but those who’ve spent past New Year’s Eves here know the right places to be. These locations become gathering spots well ahead of the countdown begins, surrounded by groups exchanging jokes, melodies playing, and maybe even a cup of something hot. It’s the blend of a perfect vantage and a shared moment with fellow onlookers that turns seeing the sky light up into something more than just optical—it becomes emotional.
This sky won’t wait — get the best seats for NYE 2026’s most unforgettable show. CLICK HERE
For a view only insiders usually access, you might want to join an experience hosted by residents who know precisely which places the best views can be found. No matter if its a peaceful spot, a raised viewpoint, or somewhere right at the center of the action, being in the ideal location can make all the difference. A few choices even offer soundtracks, treats, and comfortable seating—ideal for taking in the New Years Eve vibe in Muncie, USA your own way.
Unmissable New Year’s Activities in Muncie, USA for 2026
Don’t let NYE 2026 in Muncie, USA pass you by—uncover experiences you won’t find in the guidebooks.
The City’s Overall Atmosphere During NYE
When New Year’s Eve comes closer, Muncie, USA transitions into a celebratory mood. Formerly quiet streets buzz with a mix of locals and tourists, all eager to experience the gravitational energy of New Year’s spirit. Twinkling lights dance across narrow streets, laughter pours out of bustling cafés, and a silent thrill settles in all around. Whether you’re walking through a charming old quarter or relaxing in a quiet café nook, the festive spirit is everywhere—subtle, but undeniable.
Inclusive NYE Experiences in Muncie, USA
Whatever kind of traveler you are, Muncie, USA offers a balanced selection of festive options that are easy to join and likely to stay with you. You can hop on a narrated exploration to see highlight spots, or wander through holiday night stalls that stay open late, buzzing with artisan goods, music, and seasonal treats. Many visitors also enjoy heritage strolls that combine history, architecture, and cultural roots—ideal when absorbing the city’s essence before the midnight celebration. Opting for a limited-capacity or curated tour lets you take in the top sights at your comfort level, minus the stress.
What to Do in Muncie, USA with Kids
Don’t just mark the calendar—make a moment they’ll talk about for years.
Bringing the whole family? Muncie, USA makes it easy to satisfy all ages without the stress of planning. During the festive week, a number of museums and interactive galleries keep running, mixing fun with education for everyone in the family. Some parks set up family pop-ups, complete with treat stands and soft attractions. Aquariums, zoos, or holiday-themed puppet shows are also top choices for little ones. It’s common for families to end the day with a relaxed dinner nearby or a quick sunset walk before heading back.
Sweet Escapes for Two
For those on a romantic getaway, Muncie, USA has no lack of special experiences. Dining under the stars at a skyline-view restaurant is a timeless gesture, yet peaceful riverside walks and evening streetcar trips offer their own kind of magic. Several areas offer live jazz or open-air lounges—perfect places to relax with a drink and shared stories, in a more peaceful setting.
Explore the Heart of NYE Through Local Culture
The true magic of Muncie, USA during the holiday countdown lies in its distinctive blend of uncommon traditions and cherished practices.
Some corners of the city light up with local festivities featuring homegrown sounds and folk dances, while other districts celebrate the countdown with streetwide parties full of warmth and spontaneity. While taking a walk, and the next you’ll see pop-up food stands with festive snacks, or local artists creating art right there. If you’re in the right place at the right time, you might end up with a last-minute ticket to a local cultural event that wasn’t on your radar.
Secret Spots & Local-Only Tips for Muncie, USA
Where Locals Go When Tourists Don’t
You’ll never spot
these spots on curated Pinterest lists. Get insider tips where they chill after sunset, and you’ll explore a local version of Muncie, USA. Visualize a cozy diner hidden away with no menu at all. Most tourists miss them entirely — and that’s why they remain pure.
Ready to step off the tourist trail? Join a walking tour that shows you the places only locals love.
Secret Viewpoints and Quiet Corners for NYE Magic
If you know where to look, Muncie, USA reveals secret places, where the fireworks feel like they were meant just for you. No massive gathering, no clock ticking, no confusion — just you and the silence of the skyline most people never even notice. Talk to someone from here and they may suggest a bend along the canal, a holy rooftop, or an unused library rooftop. They’re not listed anywhere — but when you see it, it stays.
Authentic Markets and Hidden Food Stalls in Muncie, USA
The most flavorful bites in Muncie, USA lurk behind clouds of smoke and long lines. They don’t have a website or Instagram — just locals who know exactly when to show up. A place where they remember your taste instantly. It never tastes the same, and that’s the beauty.
Skip the restaurant. Join the tour that takes you to places with no menu — just magic.
Local NYE Traditions You’ve Never Seen
Foreign visitors crowd the flashy spots — while locals head somewhere else entirely. The true NYE spirit in Muncie, USA shines brightest in small neighborhoods, open public fields,
where familiar voices fill the air.
Forget the flash — this is about taste, voices, and warmth that doesn’t need staging.
Hidden Museums, Art Spaces & Indie Culture Spots
Why explore Muncie, USA? It’s not the giant museums — it’s the accidental finds behind unmarked doors. A step away from the crowd can lead you to a film club under a café, or a painter’s hideout in a metal box. These are not mainstream attractions — they’re labors of love, made for locals who believe in raw art.
Uncover the indie side of Muncie, USA — book your art adventure today.
Where Silence Awaits, Just Past the City Noise
We often overlook how close peace can be when youre in the middle of urban chaos. But in Muncie, USA, quiet escapes are just a short ride away. Whether its a tucked-away park, a lakeside bench, or a silent path through trees — the peace is real, and right under your nose.
NYE Wisdom from People Who Actually Live Here
The good stuff waits outside the itinerary, and residents become your compass. The rooftop only seen from a hidden stairwell, is forgotten by apps — but remembered by hearts. Say hi first, ask second, and stories unfold. Walk slow and smile often, and real magic begins.
Most Underrated Spots to Catch NYE Fireworks
The people who live here have their own secret spots — and it’s usually not the official NYE spots. They’ll tell you about rooftops you’d never notice, an overlooked bridge with a clean sightline, or a forgotten floor of a public library — quiet, personal, and unforgettable. These places are passed down through whispers, kept off the radar deliberately, so the magic stays real. No signs, no fences — just space, perfectly timed for NYE 2026 in Muncie, USA. You won’t find them on travel blogs, but when you get there, it feels like Muncie, USA is putting on a private show just for you.
Want a personal moment under the sky this NYE 2026 in Muncie, USA? Tap into the local secrets now.
Cinematic Moments Locals Live After Dark
It almost feels surreal cinematic about walking through Muncie, USA. Warm lights stretch along sleepy corners, smoke curls from street vendors, and soft laughter spills around you. It doesn’t beg attention, but you’re caught in a cinematic moment without an audience.
NYE Dining in Muncie, USA for Two… or for the Whole Family
An intimate dinner with those closest to you — while explosions crackle in the sky — feels like pure magic. Whether you’re a couple planning a quiet night out or a family in need of a cozy feast, Muncie, USA has you covered. Whether youre thinking about a quiet toast or a family-style feast, this city offers spots worth booking in advance.
Floating tables sell out first — grab your spot for a magical NYE dinner cruise in Muncie, USA
Perfect New Year’s Eve Dinner Venues for Couples in Love
When the sky turns golden, the idea of skyline dining to close out December with your favorite person feels magical. Muncie, USA offers intimate restaurants designed for couples — from rooftop bistros to panoramic-view lounges. Let this countdown night about soft music, intimate glances, and a table worth reserving.
Spots disappear quickly — reserve your New Year’s Eve dinner for two before it’s too late.
Places to Eat, Laugh, and Celebrate NYE Together
The most festive nights don’t need pyrotechnics — sometimes it’s just a big table, warm plates, and family all around. In Muncie, USA, you’ll find neighborhood dining spots where families can relax and be themselves and still fit right in.These nights become something you’ll repeat fast.
Tables for families go fast — book now and create a delicious tradition.
Unforgettable Ways to Dine on New Year’s Eve
When dinner means connection, not just courses — Muncie, USA has dining ideas that bend the rules. From having dinner on a floating deck to sharing a meal during a cultural night show,. These meals linger, not on the tongue — but in memory, .
Eat somewhere insane this NYE — rivers, rooftops, caves, or cliffs — just don’t eat boring.
Dinner with a Bang: Best Fireworks View Tables
You can’t beat being under a sky lit up above your dinner plate. In Muncie, USA, some restaurants and rooftops offer firework-filled skies for your table. Not all seats are created equal when countdown vibes hit, especially if you want a fireworks view. Book the right spot, and you’ll toast with a skyline as your backdrop while sipping your drink. Top seats are the first to go — they are gone before dessert menus land. Experienced NYE diners act fast and target tables with open-sky views.
Top NYE Dinner Cruises and Waterfront Restaurants
The most cinematic NYE dinners happen where reflections and real life blur together. From slow river cruises to bay-hopping party boats, it’s all part of the show. Even without a ship, Muncie, USA serves up coastal magic in its own unforgettable ways. Sometimes, the best NYE story starts with a seat near the sea.
Secure your waterfront seat now — spots vanish faster than champagne bubbles.
How to Lock In the Best New Year’s Eve Dinner in Muncie, USA
The magic kicks off from a table that feels just right — and in Muncie, USA, you’ll need to hunt it down. Want city views? Dinner before the kids crash? A place that feels festive but not chaotic? Get in early, or miss it all.Map it out early, and you’ll thank yourself later.
Lock It Down Before December Hits
Reserve way ahead — seriously, especially if you want a table with a view or an intimate setting. Waiting until December? That’s risky, you’re already behind.
Know Your Vibe Before You Search
Set your dinner mood first, whether it’s a fancy rooftop, kid-friendly vibes, or a laid-back dinner by the water.
Ask for a “Fireworks View” Table (Literally)
Make your request obvious: view, please, because some spots don’t mention it unless asked. Mention it when you book.
Choose a Reservation That Matches the Countdown
Don’t just pick any time, because dining too soon kills the countdown thrill, but you risk missing the main event.
Plan for the Unexpected — and Get It in Writing
Read the fine print, in case plans shift. Protect your wallet — and your appetite.
Be Loud About Allergies, Needs, and Restrictions
Mention dietary needs upfront, because good kitchens prepare early, and last-minute changes rarely work.
Dress the Part (Even If It’s Casual)
Look sharp, even for beachside seats, because the vibe deserves some sparkle. Style = mood booster.
Confirm Everything Twice
Call, email, and DM if needed, especially fireworks view. Details matter more than ever.
Sort Out Your Ride in Advance
Plan your ride in advance, because traffic gets crazy. Smooth arrival = perfect night.
Pick a Place That Has Something Extra
Don’t forget the “wow” factor, whether it’s a surprise course. You deserve a table worth remembering.
Great nights start with one decision — reserve your NYE seat today before the best views are gone.
Join the Biggest New Year’s Eve Public Festivities in Muncie, USA
The magic of New Year’s Eve in Muncie, USA so special isn’t about the show alone or even the performances—it’s the shared feeling of unity as the crowd chants in sync From travelers recording their memories to families cheering with joy, each expression tells its own story of pure happiness That’s the reason travelers return every New Year’s Eve—not just for the fireworks, but for that one-of-a-kind sensation of being part of something bigger
Where to Be When the Clock Strikes Midnight in Muncie, USA
If there’s one place you need to be on New Year’s Eve, and that’s the primary NYE concert zone. Every year, a wave of locals and visitors gather together for a once-in-a-year event. The music lineup is stacked, with firework-synced songs that turn the city into a living rhythm. As the final seconds tick away, the stage goes full sensory overload, ushering in a fresh beginning with cheers. This isn’t just a concert—it’s a rite of passage for NYE lovers.
Where Everyone Goes to Celebrate Together in Muncie, USA
When midnight approaches, nothing beats the vibe than by being part of the gathering at the most happening public spaces in Muncie, USA. Central city hubs and cultural landmarks become the stage of the celebration, where thousands stand packed together for an unforgettable citywide moment. Everyone’s voice blends into one as the final seconds echo through the streets.
Get the full scoop on the top NYE hangout zones packed with music, lights, and people.
No-Ticket Needed: Enjoy Live Music & Light Shows Across the City
Some of the best NYE moments in Muncie, USA happen where admission is free. Dozens of open-air concerts pop up in key public areas, featuring local bands, DJs, and cultural acts. You can just follow the sound and lights, and stumble into something unforgettable. Buildings, bridges, and fountains are bathed in laser visuals synced to music, adding extra sparkle to the streets of Muncie, USA.
Explore the top public spots where sound and color collide for New Year’s Eve.
Free & Electric: Places That Buzz Without the Price Tag
Sometimes, the real magic happens where admission costs absolutely nothing. From hillside parks and public bridges, you’ll find spots where the energy is high and the views are even better. They’re hidden gems that tourists rarely find, where you can dance with strangers, cheer with the masses, or simply watch it all unfold. If you want the vibe without the price, this list will be your golden map.
Get the map of places where the party’s loud, the vibes are real, and the price is zero.
Where to Stay in Muncie, USA for Fireworks, Countdown & Comfort (NYE 2026 Edition)
Among the best decisions made by NYE-goers in last year’s New Year’s Eve in Muncie, USA was getting a place with a view. The celebration was electrifying, but securing a cozy spot just a few steps away made it so much easier.
📅 Countdown is ticking— Lock in your hotel before December madness.
Best Hotel Areas in Muncie, USA for Fireworks & Festivities Access
Picking the right spot to stay in Muncie, USA can strongly impact your NYE journey. Some districts are just close enough from popular countdown locations and fireworks spots. That makes it smooth to walk, join the party, and get back with ease.
Most visitors who stayed just a couple of streets from the main square in Muncie, USA say it transformed their whole NYE experience. Bypassing the taxi chaos and booking nearby made it easy for many experience the night smoothly. That proximity usually makes all the difference for those celebrating the New Year.
🏨 Avoid traffic and stress— stay near the countdown and celebrate with ease.
Rooms in the top NYE zones of Muncie, USA disappear fast. Travelers want to be right by the fireworks, celebration spots, and crowd zones. So your safest choice is to lock in a room early and be nearby.
Stay Above the Crowd: Rooftop Hotel Recommendations for NYE in Muncie, USA
Each year, thousands of guests in Muncie, USA choose places that let them join the countdown without stepping outside. Seeing the fireworks explode from a rooftop bar feels like a VIP experience.
Skyline-facing suites in Muncie, USA disappear weeks—sometimes even months in advance. Room selection is shrinking, booking traffic spikes, and deals vanish quickly.
🌃 Watching the fireworks from your bed? Click here to reserve top-view rooms.
Where to Find Cheap Yet Strategic Stays for NYE in Muncie, USA
A lot of NYE-goers prefer to spend more on experiences and less on where they sleep. That’s why affordable hotels near top countdown spots are so sought after every New Year’s.
The most strategic budget spots in Muncie, USA get booked out fast during the holiday countdown. Booking early can mean the difference between having front-row access or ending up far from the fireworks show.
💸 NYE doesn’t have to be expensive — Click Here to Find Budget Stays Near the Celebration.
NYE 2026 in Muncie, USA Hotel Sales: Save Big on Prime Locations
Each year, accommodations in Muncie, USA offer NYE-only offers just for the New Year’s Eve crowd. These discounts are often hidden in search results or show up suddenly before they’re snapped up.
Time-sensitive New Year’s offers are open right now in Muncie, USA, but they won’t stick around. Clicking early might be your last opportunity at staying close without breaking your budget.
🕛 Time’s running out — Secure your discounted room before the countdown starts.
Booking Tips for the Busiest Night of the Year
Many guests who lock in affordable options usually act long before the holidays. Waiting too long often means fewer choices, greater distance from the venue, or budget blowouts.
A few quick tactics can make your NYE booking much less stressful and more efficient. Browse in incognito mode, secure it fast, and skip peak days if you can
💸 Want to save money and stress? Follow these tips before reserving anything.
Top NYE Experiences & Discounted Tours in Muncie, USA
You don’t need to go down a rabbit hole to find the ideal NYE plan in Muncie, USA. You’ll find a exclusive mix of adventures that pack thrills, local flavor, and real savings. From midnight boat tours to chef-led culinary walks, Muncie, USA has a flavor for everyone. Imagine walking quietly through the lesser-known streets of Muncie, USA with a passionate local as your curator. These curated adventures aren’t just about snapping photos — they’re about personal connection, mood, and unforgettable scenes well beyond the fireworks. Here’s the surprise: some of the top tours are still up for grabs.The hours are slipping away, and some of the most-loved New Years Eve experiences in Muncie, USA are disappearing quickly. This is the last window to grab end-of-year experiences before they’re fully booked — including NYE river rides, small-group strolls, and invitation-only moments. If you want this NYE to be next-level, go for it now.
Still thinking about it? Book now before the best tours vanish.
Last-Minute NYE Tours With 5-Star Reviews
Too many choices? Let the reviews show you the path. People can’t stop sharing these must-book events — from exclusive bookings to sunset boats. These award-winning picks haven’t vanished yet — but you’re on the edge.
There’s still time to join the best — take the last spot while it lasts.
Best Holiday Travel Promos You Can Still Grab Today in Muncie, USA
Every second you wait, one more spot in Muncie, USA is gone. We’ve seen limited-time offers go from wide open to off the list in under a few moments. Act immediately or regret it tomorrow — this is the point of no return.
You’ve got one chance to travel for less — Take it before it disappears.
Unforgettable Fireworks + Dining Experiences in One Booking
Visualize it youre toasting glasses on a chic rooftop venue as the sky lights up above the skyline of Muncie, USA.From cozy tables for couples to premium parties, there’s a next-level setup for every vibe. And the most exciting bit? You can still grab one — if youre quick.
One click gets you dinner and fireworks — Book the bundle before it’s gone.
Underrated NYE Packages Even Locals Miss
The funny thing about underrated offers? They disappear faster than the obvious picks. Spots are limited, listings don’t stay long, and prices rise without warning — no alerts, no pings. If one of these is still open, it’s not by coincidence — it’s your moment to grab something hidden.
These are the NYE tours even locals keep quiet — See what’s still available.
Where to Go & What to Do in Muncie, USA Without Spending a Fortune
Zero-cost explorations, open concerts, and street parties — Muncie, USA gives you options to go frugal. Most out-of-towners ignore these routes, thinking cheap means low-quality. Rather than hit checkout on that high-cost dinner cruise, check the streets — Muncie, USA might show you something better.
Why overspend? Get the top budget-friendly spots in Muncie, USA.
Celebrate Stress-Free: All-Inclusive NYE Deals to Enjoy Muncie, USA Like a VIP
Craving that seamless, exclusive NYE experience in Muncie, USA? These all-in-one deals give you just that. From private access to landmark locations to five-star meals and curated performances — it’s like unlocking the golden pass to a flawless celebration. No crowds, no last-minute planning, just seamless enjoyment from start to finish.
Skip the planning — click here to lock in your all-in-one NYE experience now.
One-Night-Only: Exclusive NYE Experiences You Won’t See Again
Look away for a second and you’ll lose your chance — some of the most legendary NYE tours in Muncie, USA aren’t available outside the year’s end. Locals and insiders know where to go: limited-access spots, behind-the-scenes entries, or pop-up moments that wrap up after the countdown ends. It’s a brief opportunity to witness a vibe of Muncie, USA that’s undiscovered every other night of the year.
Reserve your spot before it’s gone — this tour only runs on December 31st.
New Year’s Eve 2026 in Muncie, USA is more than a party—it’s a cultural awakening
As the closing hours of the year unfolds in Muncie, USA, the city transforms into a open-air party zone—each block, plaza, and hidden alley humming with anticipation. The main countdown stage is where most eyes turn as midnight approaches, often paired with brilliant light shows and top-billed concerts. But beyond the glitz, there’s an more soulful layer of celebration—cultural performances, ancestral customs, and cultural marches that bring ancient traditions into the modern New Year’s spotlight.
Click to see the top NYE 2026 events and festivals in Muncie, USA
What makes New Year’s Eve in Muncie, USA especially unique is the variety of cultural events—from quirky, themed street carnivals and neon-lit night markets, to free events that attract everyone without a need for admission. In some areas, whole districts become festival zones, with craft stalls, culinary tents, hands-on exhibits, and spontaneous street shows that showcase the soul of the city than just a countdown party. If you catch a glimpse of a shadow puppet stage or a glow-in-the-dark parade, you’ve likely discovered a once-a-year hidden gem—half folklore, half fireworks.
Whether youre exploring alone, with kids in tow, or on a romantic escape, there’s a unique way to celebrate for every kind of celebration in Muncie, USA. Family-friendly festivals often feature early countdowns, child-appropriate light shows, and cultural storytelling events that mix joy and heritage. Meanwhile, neighborhoods unite at skyline spots, community halls, or even tucked-away temples for more intimate private shows, where lanterns float skyward after midnight and music lingers into the early hours. And if youre chasing the after-midnight thrill, stick around—some of the most authentic moments begin in the silent hours.
Planning a Trip to Muncie, USA for NYE 2026? Here’s How to Get There
Getting to Muncie, USA is fairly hassle-free, with well-established access by plane and ground transport from both domestic and international locations. Many travelers opt for planes, trains, or buses to get there, based on their origin.
Since NYE attracts many visitors, transport lines might experience congestion, but overall, it’s still a smooth journey for most people heading in.
Looking for the best flight options to Muncie, USA? Check early deals before prices soar.
There are several ways to reach Muncie, USA, giving travelers the freedom to choose what works for their needs.Flying continues to be the most common choice for long-distance arrivals, with both foreign and national connections widely available.On the other hand, those coming from closer regions often opt for rail or coach options, which are both reliable and cost-efficient.Ferries may operate in some areas, while the final segment of the trip is typically handled using ride apps or taxis.
Traveling to Muncie, USA around New Year’s Eve? Make sure to secure your transport ahead of time. Bus, train, and flight seats often sell out fast, and ticket prices tend to increase as the day approaches. Already thinking about where to stay? Explore top-rated places to stay close to the action.
*Get closer to the countdown in Muncie, USA — find hotel rooms with the best NYE views today.*
Answers to Common NYE 2026 Questions in Muncie, USA
Is it safe to be in Muncie, USA during New Year’s Eve 2026?
Yes, the city generally ramps up security precautions around New Year’s Eve.
Do I need to book a hotel in advance for NYE 2026 in Muncie, USA?
Reserving early means more affordable options and better locations.
Where do locals and tourists celebrate NYE in Muncie, USA?
Many NYE-goers head to iconic areas where the celebration atmosphere is most intense.
Any good locations to catch NYE fireworks for free in Muncie, USA?
No-cost viewing spots often include high ground, riverbanks, or uncovered balconies.
Will buses and subways still be running on NYE night in Muncie, USA?
There are usually late-night services or extended hours.
Is it okay to bring kids to New Year’s Eve celebrations in Muncie, USA?
Definitely, just stick to family zones and steer clear of nightlife-heavy spots.
Can I find places to eat on New Year’s Eve in Muncie, USA?
Eating at restaurants on NYE is common, but you’ll want to secure a spot in time.
Are there non-party things to do on NYE in Muncie, USA?
You can still enjoy the atmosphere without going to bars.
Are there local NYE traditions I should know?
Every city has a few customs that make NYE feel even more special.
How long before midnight should I go to find a great spot?
If it’s a VIP spot or controlled-entry zone, make sure you’re there extra early.
As midnight nears, ask yourself — where would you rather be? Between quiet corners and wild cheers, Muncie, USA creates an atmosphere you’ll never forget. If you’re in it for the joy, this city blends it all. Take the chance to see what makes this night so different — and so worth it. Begin your journey with these unforgettable activities for New Year’s Eve 2026 in Muncie, USA.
The world will be watching the clock — but you? You could be watching fireworks over a skyline. Let Muncie, USA host your story. Explore now — transport options are thinning fast, and central stays are vanishing by the hour.