Here are a few parties and events to ring in the New Year that people have let me know about. It looks like there is something for everyone. Those who want to rock in the New Year have many choices but, surprisingly, those who want a more subdued evening have a few. There's even an AR event for those with small children.
The Peabody has live music, champagne and lots of fun. Best of all, after the party you can just crash there and avoid driving home. Tickets are limited: $40.00 in advance in the gift shop; $50.00 at the door, (must be 21 or over). 501-906-4000.
Live music, tasty beverages and animals are all rocking at the zoo for New Year's. Cost is $100.00 per person with all proceeds benefiting the Arkansas Zoological Foundation. Dress is black-tie optional and tickets include admission to the event, free wine, beer, champagne and light appetizers. 501-661-7208.
Sean Locke / Getty ImagesThe River Market is the place to go if you want an exciting New Year's Eve. There are plenty of bars and clubs open all night and you'll have plenty of company to help you ring in the new year. The Flying Saucer will have Afterglow playing ($10 cover).
4. Cajun's Wharf with Typhoid Mary
Champagne toast, party favors and Typhoid Mary (band). Twenty five dollar cover. Located at 2400 Cantrell Rd. 501-375-5351.This years affair will be a “night to remember” that will include 1 night in the room of your choice (if you buy two nights you get a third night free), a private limo to escort you downtown to the LuLav Restaurant where you will enjoy a carefully prepared four course dinner by Chef Brian Cochrane, for which he has paired each course with a unique wine fitted for royalty. Hand designed Victorian favors will be presented to each guest. Champagne toasts and "Auld Lang Syne" will ring in the witching hour. Tickets are $175.00/couple plus room. 877-374-7966.
This event is alcohol free and children are welcome. First Night offers the finest in music, theater, dance, visual arts, puppetry, storytelling and magic. Tickets are for $10(Adults) and $5 (Students age 7 to 18). Lots of fun things for kids. 1-800-514-ETIX.
The Rockets will be the band, party favors, hors d'oeuvres, champagne toast at midnight. Located at 11301 Financial Centre Parkway. 501-312-9000.
The Arkansas Cruise offers dinner cruises on New Year's Eve for a more relaxed evening. However, some of the "New Year" cruises don't actually occur at midnight so you won't really "ring in" the year on these trips. It's a nice romantic idea for dinner before the big night though! The actual midnight cruise is around $60. 501-372-5777.
Celebrate New Year's Eve at the Afterthought where THE MUNKS will be playing. Party favors and a Champagne toast at midnight. Cover is $20. Located at 2721 Kavanaugh Blvd. 501-663-1196.
10. The Looney Bin
The late show at the Looney Bin will have champagne at midnight, sparkling cider, party poppers, hats, horns, noisemakers and snacks. The cover charge is also increased to $25 (it's just 12.50 at the early show). Marc Rubben will be performing. Located at 1010 Breckenridge Dr. 501-225-7007.
