Best New Year's Eve Events In Twin Cities
For those who prefer to spend their New Year's out and about, not sitting at home basking in the warm glow of the TV watching Ryan Seacrest, check out some of the events going on around the Twin Cities that will let you ring in the New Year surrounded by others who have the same idea. From enjoying the musical talents of local musicians to imbibing in culinary and liquid delights, there's a celebration for every appetite.
New Year's Eve with Mark Mallman
Cost: $14
Doors Open: 8 p.m., Music Starts: 8:30 p.m.
Website: http://www.varsitytheater.org/
Only months after his music marathon that lasted 78 hours, Mark Mallman will host his annual New Year's Eve party at the Varsity Theater. This year's musical festivities will include Caroline Smith & The Good Night Sleeps, Red Pens and Koo Koo Kanga Roo. Doors open at 8 p.m. for this 18+ show.
Tour de Farm New Year's Eve
Cost: $175
Bus leaves: 5:30 p.m.
Website: http://www.tourdefarmmn.com/ and http://www.cornertablerestaurant.com/
Looking for a very unique and decadent New Year's Eve that will take you away from the cities? Hop on a bus at Corner Table for Tour de Farm's New Year's Eve at the Star Thrower Farm in Glencoe, Minn. Inside a heated barn, partake in a five-course meal with culinary creations from Corner Table's Scott Pampuch who will create a menu with ingredients that come within 100 miles -- all local and all delicious. Check out the websites for reservations and more information.
The Artists' Quarter
Cost: $45
9 p.m.
Website: http://artistsquarter.com/
New Year's Eve with Carole Marin and Friends has been a tradition at the Artist Quarter in St. Paul since 1995. Sit back in the comfy confines of the Artist Quarter to a night of jazz that will ease you into the New Year. The cost includes complimentary hors d'oeuvres, champagne toast, party favors and more. Reservations are recommended.
VEGA New Year's Eve -- Marriot City Center
Cost: $30 for general admission; $150 for VIP.
8 p.m.
Website: http://www.vegaproductions.org/events/vega-new-years-eve/
If you want to hip-hop your way into the New Year, head to VEGA Productions New Year's Eve featuring Brother Ali and other adrenaline-pumping music. The 18+ night will benefit the music programs at Robbinsdale Cooper High School. Purchase general admission tickets or go all out with the VIP treatment that includes drinks, hors d'oeuvres and a late night party with DJ Snuggles.
Envy Nightclub
Cost: $75-$250+
Doors Open: 9 p.m.
Website: http://envynye.com/
Taking a cue from the HBO show, Envy will host a Boardwalk Empire Ball where the club will be transformed into a 1920s vintage cabaret complete with burlesque dancers. So dust off the vintage clothes and flapper dresses because dressing in 1920s style is encouraged. For $75, enjoy their "premium open bar" and if you're looking to drop some cold cash, you can get the VIP treatment with bottle service for a $250 minimum.
New Year's Eve Rock and Bowl -- Park Tavern Bowling & Entertainment
Cost: $25 - reservations required
Bowling starts: 9:30 p.m.; Free pizza buffet: 11 p.m.
Website: http://www.parktavern.net/
Get some physical activity while ringing in the New Year with some bowling at Park Tavern in St. Louis Park. Drink specials start at 9 p.m. with bowling starting at 9:30 and rolling on until 1:30 a.m. Enjoy a free pizza buffet at 11 p.m. and each lane gets a free bottle of champagne for a midnight toast.
First Avenue: New Year's Eve Danceteria
Cost: $10.00 advance, $20.00 doors
Doors Open: 8 p.m.
Website: http://www.first-avenue.com/event/2010/12/city-pages-presents-first-avenue's-new-year's-eve-danceteria
In First Avenue's Mainroom enjoy a night of music and dancing that features Ian Rans of Drinking With Ian, Get Cryphy deejays, Soviet Panda, DJ Smitty, and Roy Freedom.
Cost: $40 and up
Dinner: 7 p.m.; Performances: 8 p.m.
Website: http://kaleidoscopenye.com/
A mainstay for New Year's Eve entertainment at the International Market Square will bring you around the world in one night with a "Kaleidoscope of Cultures." The event includes a buffet dinner by D'Amico & Sons followed by "worldly dance and music performances." There are more than 20 bars and the night includes a champagne toast at midnight.