Out with the old, in with the new. Ringing in the New Year. Party like it's 2010. You've heard all the cliches... but the big night is finally here.
You've probably got your plans for New Years Eve all set, but if you're like some people, your calendar still needs some filling. Fear not, merry-makers.
We've got some ideas you may not have thought of to finish off 2009.
First off, click here if you plan on stopping by the casinos to celebrate. Or read on for some things that are perhaps a bit more off the beaten path.
KEEPING QUIET: Our first stop on the New Years tour of CT takes us to New London and the Oasis Pub, where the Quiet Life is taking the stage. The indie-trio recently moved from New London to Los Angeles to record an album, then finally settled in Portland, Oregon. The album "Big Green" isn't out yet, but the band has a new EP of old recordings and demos that will be given away to the first 25 people through the show. M.T. Bearington will also perform. There's a $5 cover. Doors open at 9 p.m.
SLOPE STYLE: Why not ski in 2010? Ski Sundown in New Hartford is throwing a New Years Eve Celebration tonight. The evening will include a buffet dinner from 7-10 p.m. (reservations are a must). There's also music and entertainment starting at 8 p.m., and the evening is capped off with a torchlight parade. Lift tickets are $31 and $34. Buffet tickets are $15 and $20. 6 p.m. - 1 a.m.
MURDER MYSTERY: Playhouse on Park is offering a very different New Years Eve celebration. "Drop Dead Gorgeous: Murder on the Red Carpet," is an interactive party involving every guest. Each person plays a character attending an A-list post-Oscar bash, where someone ends up dead. Guests will try to unveil clues and discover the culprit. Food, beer, wine and a champagne toast complete the evening. Tickets are limited and $55. 8 p.m. - 1 a.m.
ROCKIN' IN THE NEW YEAR: Want to start 2010 off with a little soul? Head to the Fairfield Theatre Company on Stageone in Fairfield to see the Ryan Montbleau Band. The Boston-based band is the brainchild (like the alliteration?) of singer-songwriter Ryan Montbleau. The group promises to provide one of the most eclectic evenings of music you're likely to hear for a while. And there's even champagne toast tonight to help you celebrate the New Year.
NEW YEARS ROAD TRIP: And why not take a little road-trip tonight? They Might Be Giants are pulling out all the stops for their New Years Bash at the Calvin Theatre just over the border in Northampton, MA. The geek-rock legends behind classics like "Particle Man," "Istanbul" is playing a pair of shows today. The first is a family-friendly performance at 3 p.m. Then there's the 8 p.m. show for the older crowd. The Giants will be playing with a full eight-piece band. And there's even going to be an appearance from John Hodgman (who you'll recognize as the PC from the "I'm a Mac" commercials). Tickets are $32.50.
Whatever you do, have a happy and safe start to 2010!
