Champagne, confetti, balloons, resolutions, cheap party favors, "Auld Lang Syne," midnight kisses and 2 a.m. pizza buffets — the familiar trappings of a modern-day New Year's Eve spent out on the town. While we by no means denigrate the equally fine choice of hunkering down inside in front of the boob tube, popcorn and flannel pajamas at the ready, it can't be denied that there is an allure to a New Year's Eve done right.
Luckily, there's a seemingly endless (OK, it's closer to about 150 by our list) number of those ways to do the town; you just have to find the one that fits your mood. Perhaps saying good riddance with a drunken bacchanalia is in order, a cathartic exorcising of a shitty year before starting 2012 with a clean slate.
Or perhaps the year was filled with personal blessings — a steady job, a new baby, a wedding or a clean bill of health — and the occasion should be marked with appropriate class. A swanky party, some dignified dancing, tearful singing at midnight.
Or you've finally paired off and want the whole couple-y shebang, complete with fancy meal and deep meaningful stares over bubbly served up in commemorative stemware. Or you're single — happily — and want nothing more than to dance, drink and snog some stranger at midnight.
Or you're single — miserably — and want nothing more than to drink (a lot) and watch the witching hour come and go without kisses, confetti or noisemakers, in blissful ignorance of everything except your impending New Year's Day hangover.
Or none of the above quite fits you — but that's alright. Because, chances are, there's a New Year's Eve out there that will match your mood. You just have to find it — which is where Metro Times' annual guide to New Year's Eve happenings comes in handy.
So hunt down the perfect night out, corral a DD if needed and make a memorable start to your best year yet. —Megan O'Neil, listings editor
Elektricity. Channel 955 Live on New Year's Eve. Giving away prizes, including 2 round trip tickets to Las Vegas and 2 round trip tickets to Paris! $10 early bird tickets available at elektricitymusic.com , Ponitac. 9PM 18+
17th Street Bar & Grill NYE 2012. Gourmet hors d'oeuvres and Champagne toast at midnight. Party till 4 a.m. 17th Street Bar & Grill, 3905 17 Mile Rd., Sterling Heights, 586-264-8644. $50 advance.
50 Amp Fuse. Includes Champagne and party favors. Uptown Grille, 3100 E. West Maple, Commerce Township, 248-960-3344.
A Jazzy Christmas. Plowshares Theatre Company presents a hot, new cabaret revue featuring some of the coolest holiday songs done in the jazziest way. New Year's Eve packages include dinner, dancing and dessert. $75-$150, call for details. Virgil H. Carr Cultural Arts Center, 311 E. Grand River, Detroit, 313-965-8430.
A New Year's to Remember. Ring in 2012 with the masters of fondue with a five-course prix fixe menu. Includes a split of Champagne and keepsake stemware. The Melting Pot, 26425 Novi Rd., Novi, 248-347-6358. $130 per couple, $70 per person.
A Punk Rockin' New Year's Eve. Featuring the Bill Bondsmen, Fires in Japan, Bison Machine and Keego Kid. Includes appetizers, Champagne toast and punk rock karaoke after party. New Dodge Lounge, 8850 Joseph Campau, Hamtramck, 313-874-5963. $10. (9 p.m.-4 a.m.)
Aaron Vaughn. Edison's, 220 Merrill St., Birmingham, 248-645-2150.
Ain't Misbehavin' New Year's Eve Celebration. The evening begins with a 9 p.m. performance of this famous Fats Waller musical, and ends with a Champagne reception and midnight toast held in the Performance Network lobby. Performance Network, 120 E. Huron St., Ann Arbor, 734-663-0681. $75. (9 p.m.)
Alexander Zonjic. With Lisa McClowry and Nick Colionne. Includes premium open bar, gourmet dinner, dancing and party favors. Andiamo Italia, 7096 E. 14 Mile, Warren, 586-268-3200. $99 & $125. (7 p.m.)
An Intimate New Year's Eve with Roy Davis Jr. Dance in the new year with legendary house music producer Roy Davis Jr. Mars Bar will provide all of the amenities to make the night: Food, Champagne toast and party favors. Starting off the night are DJs Marc Duncan & Tommy Cool. Drink specials all night long. VIP tables available. The Mars Bar, 10001 Joseph Campau , Hamtramck, 313-974-6575. $25. (8 p.m.)
Backstreet NYE 2012. With DJ Josh Karmin. Backstreet, 15606 Joy Rd., Detroit, 313-838-6699. (10 p.m.-4 a.m.)
Bar Louie's New Year's Eve. VIP packages range from $25 to $150. All include party favors and Champagne toast. Call for details. Bar Louie, 44375 12 Mile Rd., Novi, 248-662-1100. (9 p.m.)
Beer Bash New Year's Eve. Beer bash featuring Third Coast Kings with Dirty Devile and a series of special Rat Pads that will be tapped at 8:30, 9:30, 10:30 and 11:30 p.m. The Third Coast Kings are a proper deep funk and soul outfit. In the tradition of '60s and '70s funk groups, the Kings detonate with an explosive sonic force that is guaranteed to make you move. Corner Brewery, 720 Norris St., Ypsilanti, 734-480-2739. Free. (8 p.m.-1 a.m.)
Benny and the Jets Band. Loyal Order of Moose, 18418 Northville Rd., Northville, 248-344-0920. $10. (8 p.m.)
BLK MKT NYE 2012. Features three DJs, two bars, a buffet-style dinner, strolling appetizers, Champagne toast and continental breakfast. The Black Market, 41570 Garfield Rd., Clinton Twp., 586-648-0888. $10 advance. (8 p.m.-4 a.m.)
Boogie Fever New Year's Eve Party. Complimentary party favors, pizza buffet and Champagne toast. Tickets available in advance. Boogie Fever, 22901 Woodward Ave., Ferndale, 248-541-1600. $25.
Bookies New Year's Eve 2012. Three open bar party packages. See Bookiesbar.com for tickets and details. Bookies Bar & Grille, 2208 Cass Ave., Detroit, 313-962-0319. $50, $75, $100.
Brew Year's Eve. Arbor Brewing Company, 114 E. Washington, Ann Arbor, 734-213-1393. Free.
Cafe D'Mongo's New Year's Eve Party. No tickets or reservations required. First come, first served. Cafe D'Mongo's Speakeasy, 1439 Griswold, Detroit.
Cantina Diablos NYE 2012. Featuring DJ Technician, dancing, a chef's special menu and a complimentary Champagne toast and balloon drop at midnight. Cantina Diablo's - Royal Oak, 100 S. Main St., Royal Oak.
Centaur New Year's Eve. Balloon drop, a variety of Champagne and hors d'oeuvres packages and more. Reservations are highly recommended. Centaur Bar, 2233 Park Ave., Detroit, 313-963-4040.
Champagne Explosion 2012. This annual sell-out New Year's bash features five event rooms with bands and DJs, including DJs Godfather, Maz, Chuck D. and Quest; a karaoke room; strolling entertainers, including illusionists, comics and acrobats; open premium bar; full buffet and hors d'oeuvres; Champagne fountains; and more. Hotel packages available. See champagneexplosionnye.com for details. Hyatt Regency Dearborn, 600 Town Center Dr., Dearborn, 248-929-1885. $90 & $135. (9 p.m.-4 a.m.)
City Club NYE. Featuring a free Champagne toast and 8 DJs: Pleasurekitten, Elektrosonik, Raev, Pulse State, Void6, Riku Namako, Aaron Hingst and Zachariah Messiah. Leland City Club, 400 Bagley Ave., Detroit, 313-962-2300. (10 p.m.-6 a.m.)
Claddagh's New Year's Eve. All you can drink and all you can eat buffet. Claddagh Irish Pub, 17800 Haggerty Rd., Livonia, 734-542-8141. $50.
Conor O'Neill's - New Year's Eve Party. Includes Champagne toasts at both 7 p.m. (Irish New Year) and midnight; four-course meal; breakfast buffet at 1 a.m. and party favors. DJ at 10 p.m. Conor O'Neill's Pub, 318 S. Main St., Ann Arbor, 734-665-2968. $60 per person, call for reservations. (6 p.m.)
Corks & Confetti. Two DJs, midnight confetti blast, VIP package includes buffet and open bar. Plush Resto-Lounge, 13090 Inkster Rd., Redford, 313-556-2477. $25, $75 VIP.
Crash Dolls CD Release Party NYE Bash. With 7th Day Creeps, Greenlight Graffiti, Volume Dog and more. Open till 4 a.m. Champagne toast, balloon drop and continental breakfast at midnight. New York New York, 33151 Twenty-three Mile Rd. Chesterfield Township, 586-725-3914. $5/$8.
Cuisine New Year's Eve. Enjoy a specially created five-course dinner with two Champagne toasts. Cuisine, 670 Lothrop Rd., Detroit, 313-872-5110. $95, $40 optional wine pairing.
D.B. Cooper's NYE Bash. $3 drinks all night, live music from Under the Covers, a Champagne toast and a 2 a.m. buffet to soak up the alcohol. D.B. Cooper's, 29028 Campbell, Madison Heights, 248-398-7951.
Dave & Buster's NYE Family Party. Includes party favors, caricature artist, unlimited video game play, strolling magician, 8 p.m. countdown to midnight and a buffet featuring macaroni & cheese, french fries, bar bugers and more. Dave & Buster's, 45511 Park Ave., Utica, 586-930-1515. $30, advance reservation and payment required. (5-8 p.m.)
Detroit Princess New Year's Eve Cruise. Bring in the New Year in style on the 7th Annual Rock The Boat New Year's Eve party. Includes a fabulous dinner buffet with main entrées of prime rib, chicken piccata, crab stuffed salmon and vegetarian lasagna. Champagne toast at midnight, party favors. Music, dancing and cash bar available. Gates open at 8 p.m. with cruising from 10 p.m. until 1 a.m. Party goes until 2 a.m. Detroit Princess Riverboat, 201 Atwater St., Detroit, 877-338-2628. (8 p.m.)
Detroit Red Wings vs. St. Louis Blues. The Wings spending New Year's Eve on ice is a tradition in Detroit; fans can get equally chilled at the Joe's CC Olympia Club's New Year's Eve bash. Call for details. Joe Louis Arena, 600 Civic Center Dr., Detroit, 313-983-6606.
Dino's New Year's Eve Bash. No cover, special dinner menu and dance jams courtesy of Bacco. Dino's Lounge, 22740 Woodward, Ferndale, 248-591-3466. Free.
DJ Sandman. Greektown Casino - Eclipz Lounge, 555 E. Lafayette, Detroit, 888-771-4386.
DJ Zig Zag. Greektown Casino - Shotz Sports Bar, 555 E. Lafayette Blvd., Detroit, 888-771-4386.
Eastgate Pub NYE. Includes a free buffet, pizza and a Champagne toast at midnight, party favors and more. Eastgate Pub, 26449 Gratiot Ave., Roseville, 586-776-2740.
Elvis and the Blues Brothers. Seven-course dinner and tribute show. Genitti's Hole in the Wall, 108 E. Main St., Northville, 248-349-0522. $49.95. (6:30 p.m.)
Emagine New Year's Eve Party. Drinks, music, dancing and a buffet dinner with proceeds from the party benefiting Variety the Children's Charity. New Year's Eve movie packages are also available that include buffet dinner, your choice of film, two drink vouchers and unlimited popcorn. Emagine Theatre, 200 N. Main St., Royal Oak, 248-414-1000. Party: $25, $35 VIP; NYE at the movies: $50.
Emerald Ballroom New Year's Eve 2012. DJ, midnight balloon drop and drink specials. VIP booths and open bar packages available. Emerald Theatre, 31 N. Walnut St., Mount Clemens, 586-913-1920.
End of '11. Enjoy heavy hors d'oeuvres from 9-11 p.m. and a dessert bar, then shake off the calories with DJ iMix in the nightclub. Party favors and midnight Champagne toast included; bottle service and VIP available. South Bar, 210 S. Old Woodward Ave., Birmingham, 248-593-8133. $35 advance, $40 doors. (8 p.m.)
Ernie's New Year's Eve Party. DJ, dancing, Champagne toast, party favors, cash bar, complimentary hors d'oeuvres and late night Coney dogs. Free admission with dinner reservations at Ernie's Mediterranean Room. Ernie's, 16655 19 Mile Rd., Clinton Township, 586-286-8435. $10 advance, $15 doors. (9 p.m.)
Escanaba in Da Moonlight. The classic Yooper comedy returns to its original home. Purple Rose Theatre, 137 Park St., Chelsea, 734-433-7673.
Fishbone's New Year's Eve Celebration. The As Is Band provides the party tunes to ring in 2012. Event includes Champagne toast and massive balloon drop at midnight. Fishbone's Rhythm Kitchen Cafe - Greektown, 400 Monroe St., Detroit, 313-965-4600.
Fountain Bistro NYE Dinner and Party. Live jazz, fixed price dinners, open bar packages, Champagne and an outdoor VIP area for the second annual dropping of the D. Visit fountainbistro.com/newyearseve for info. Fountain Bistro, 800 Woodward Ave., Detroit, 313-237-7778. $40-$75.
Funk Night New Year's Eve. With Will Sessions, Nick Speed Orchestra and DJs Frank Raines and Dez. St. Andrew's Hall, 431 E. Congress, Detroit, 313-961-6358. $5/$10. (9 p.m.)
Funky Kingston 2nd Annual New Year's Eve Bash. DJs Brian Tomsic and Maxx Makau shake up Ann Arbor's hottest underground dance floor till 4 a.m. with soulful vintage Jamaican sounds. Elks Lodge, 220 Sunset, Ann Arbor, 734-761-7172.
Gaelic League New Year's Celebration. A toast to the Irish New Year at 7 p.m., a community potluck - bring a dish to pass - and performance by McSpillin. Gaelic League, 2068 Michigan Ave., Detroit, 313-964-8700. Free. (8 p.m.)
Gator Jakes NYE. No cover, free buffet, bubbly at midnight and continental breakfast. Open late. Gator Jake's, 36863 Van Dyke, Sterling Heights, 586-983-3700. Free.
Go Comedy New Year's Eve. 8 p.m. show is $25 and includes hors d'oeuvres. 10 p.m. show is $35 and includes hors d'oeuvres and a Champagne toast. Go Comedy! Improv Theater, 261 E. Nine Mile Rd., Ferndale, 248-327-0575. $25 & $35. (8 p.m.)
Greensky Bluegrass. With the Macpodz. Majestic Theatre, 4140 Woodward Ave., Detroit, 313-833-9700. $25. (8 p.m.)
Gus O'Connor's NYE Bash. Music from Some Kinda Jones, drink specials starting at 10 p.m. and free favors and bubbly at midnight. Gus O'Connor's, 324 Main St., Rochester, 248-608-2537. (9:30 p.m.)
Harbor House New Year's Party. Enjoy a special prix fixe menu in the lounge or regular dining available in the main dining room. No cover, live entertainment and more. Harbor House, 440 Clinton St., Detroit, 313-967-9900. Free.
Henry Hotel New Year's Eve 2012. The newly renovated hotel's NYE shindig features DJs, an upscale environment, premium bars, appetizers, a midnight buffet, VIP areas and more. Visit nyeindetroit.com for details. The Henry, 300 Town Center Dr., Dearborn, 313-441-6035. $85 & $125, hotel packages available. (9 p.m.-3 a.m.)
Hollywood in the City. Walk the red carpet at this Hollywood-themed New Year's bash. Includes Champagne toast at midnight, DJs Captn20 and Prevu, "celebrity appearances" and special guest performances. VIP packages available. MGM Grand - V, 1777 Third St., Detroit, 877-888-2121. $50 at neptix.com.
Joe Devito. Mark Ridley's Comedy Castle, 310 S. Troy St., Royal Oak, 248-542-9900. NYE shows: 7:30 p.m. $55 per couple, 10:30 $70 per couple.
John Roy. Joey's Comedy Club - Livonia, 36071 Plymouth Rd., Livonia, 734-261-0555.
Laurel Manor's Annual New Year's Eve Gala. Music by the Mass Transit Band. Hors d'ouevres, premium open bar, filet mignon and chicken entrée (vegetarian options available upon request at time of ticket purchase), specialty dessert table and afterglow pizza. Overnight stay with free shuttle available at Courtyard Marriott. Laurel Manor, 39000 Schoolcraft, Livonia, 734-462-0770. $90, call for reservations. (7 p.m.-1 a.m.)
Lick It Up! New Year's Eve Bang. Boogie off your pizza gut with special guest DJs Mogi Grumbles and Charles Trees. Includes a pre-midnight pizza eating contest. Chow down! The Blind Pig, 208 S. First St., Ann Arbor, 734-996-8555. $15.
Liquor Store New Year's Eve 2012. Party favors, Champagne toast, DJ, dancing. Liquor Store, 44325 12 Mile Rd., Novi, 248-380-3101. $10 at neptix.com; dress code strictly enforced.
Lucky Strike New Year's Eve. Performance by Boogie Dynamite, access to the arcade, bowling, billiards and more fun and games. Lucky Strike Lanes, 44325 W. 12 Mile Rd., Novi, 248-380-3101. $5. (9 p.m.)
Maze. With Frankie Beverly. Masonic Temple, 500 Temple St., Detroit, 313-832-7100. $89.50-$200. (9 p.m.)
MBarGo New Year's Eve 2012. Featuring DJ Quest, party favors and a midnight Champagne toast. MBarGo, 44325 12 Mile Rd., Novi, 248-380-3101. $20 at neptix.com; dress code strictly enforced. (9 p.m.)
Mittenfest VI. Five-day local music fest raises funds for 826michigan. Lineup features more than 60 performers including Chris Bathgate, the Hounds Below, Phantasmagoria, Oblisk, Passalacqua, Stepdad, Team Ethic, the Reelers and more. See mittenfest.org. Woodruff's, 36 E. Cross St., Ypsilanti. $10 per day, $82.60 VIP 5-day pass.
Mon Jin Lau New Year's Eve. Enjoy a spectacular dinner, open menu. DJ John Hennings begins at 10 p.m. Guests of the New Year's Eve Gala at the Marriott Centerpoint receive 15 percent off their bill. Call for reservations. Mon Jin Lau, 1515 E. Maple, Troy, 248-689-2332.
Months on End. Only three performances to benefit the Tipping Point Theatre. New Year's Eve performance includes hors d'oeuvres from Rocky's of Northville, wine and a midnight toast. Tipping Point Theatre, 361 E. Cady St., Northville, 248-347-0003. New Year's Eve $75.
Motor City New Year's Eve: The Drop. Experience the second annual dropping of the D in the heart of downtown at the Hard Rock Cafe and the Compuware atrium. Featuring DJ Paradime of Kid Rock's Twisted Brown Trucker Band, DJ Psycho and DJ RC. Detroit City Council President Charles Pugh serves as emcee. A brand-new D will drop 60 feet outside Compuware building to usher in 2012. Includes cocktails from 9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m., cash bar until 4 a.m., strolling hors d'oeuvres. Compuware World Headquarters' Atrium, One Campus Martius, Detroit, 313-355-0413. $95 advance, $120 doors. (9 p.m.)
Motor City Wine NYE Party. Music from Trio Apocalypto, open bar or cash bar packages and a Raclette station, a Swiss New Year's tradition of a melty mountain cheese, served with a selection of potatoes, crusty bread, vegetables, cornichons, cured meats and more. Motor City Wine, 608 Woodward Ave., Detroit, 313-483-7283. $75 open bar package, $25 designated driver/cash bar option.
Mount Clemens Downtown New Year's Eve Gala. Several hours of activity and performances that culminates in midnight fireworks. Downtown Mount Clemens, Mount Clemens. Free.
Muruga Booker. With the Thornbills and Freak Ache. UDetroit Cafe, 1427 Randolph St., Detroit, 313-962-0660. (8 p.m.)
Necto New Year's Eve 2012. Necto, 516 E. Liberty St., Ann Arbor, 734-994-5436. $20 advance.
New Edition. Six original members of the influential R&B group ring in 2012. Fox Theatre, 2211 Woodward Ave., Detroit, 313-471-6611. $49-$150.
New Year's Eve @ the Hamilton Room. DJs Chris B. and Tom T. battle into 2012 with go-go dancers, midnight Champagne toast and premium bar. VIP booths available, call for details. The Hamilton Room, 201 Hamilton, Birmingham, 248-593-6565. $100, limited $75 ladies tickets at neptix.com. (10 p.m.-3 a.m.)
New Year's Eve 2011. Specially crafted New Year's Eve menu. Call for reservations. Lily's Seafood, 410 S. Washington, Royal Oak, 248-591-5459.
New Year's Eve 2012. Two dance floors, three bars and 14 VIP booths make this one of Windsor's biggest NYE parties. Free party favors and Champagne toast. The Boom Boom Room, 315 Ouellette, Windsor, 519-971-0000. $15 advance.
New Year's Eve at Centerpoint Marriott. DJs and dancing in two different ballrooms, plus a Champagne fountain reception, hors d'oeuvre stations, a late night buffet and balloon drip, confetti storm and Champagne toast when the clock strikes 12. Three bar packages available; DJs include Mike Anthony, Matt Aubrey, Chris Anthony and more. For info about hotel packages, New Year's Day brunch and dining discounts at Mon Jin Lau, see newyearsevedetroit2012.com. Marriott Centerpoint, 3600 Centerpoint Parkway, Pontiac, 248-253-9800. $50-$95. (9 p.m.-4 a.m.)
New Year's Eve at Tapestry. An evening of soul music with Chuck Jackson and a dinner buffet at midnight. Tapestry, 24580 Evergreen, Southfield, 248-356-5602. $35 advance at neptix.com, $45 doors. (9 p.m.)
New Year's Eve at the Avenue. Party in three rooms, each with its own theme or head outdoors for two huge heated tents. With music from DJ AMF, DJ Just Nick and more. Avenue Sports Grille, 3632 Elizabeth, Wayne, 734-729-7337. $10. (9 p.m.-4 a.m.)
New Year's Eve at the Gem & Century Theatres. Enjoy a gourmet dinner, a performance of either The All Night Strut Holiday Show or Sister's Christmas Catechism, and a festive New Year's celebration complete with a live band, dancing, balloon drop, Champagne toast and more. Gem Theatre, 333 Madison Ave., Detroit, 313-963-9800. $110.
New Year's Eve at the Met. With sounds by DJ Chrome and DJ Surab Deb. Martini bar, hors d'oeuvres, Champagne fountain. Midnight balloon drop and Champagne toast. The Met Hotel, 5500 Crooks Rd., Troy, 248-879-2100. $125. (9 p.m.-4 a.m.)
New Year's Eve at the Rep. Includes unlimited Champagne, hors d'oeuvres, a performance of Engagement Rules and a buffet supper. Detroit Repertory Theatre, 13103 Woodrow Wilson, Detroit, 313-868-1347. $70. (8 p.m.)
New Year's Eve Blues Bash. Featuring George Bedard and Steve Nardella. Includes plated 3-course dinner, Champagne toast, two drink tickets, party favors, balloon drop and midnight hors d'oeuvres. Hotel packages available. Guy Hollerin's Sports Bar, 3600 Plymouth, Ann Arbor, 734-769-4323. $59.99. (7 p.m.)
New Year's Eve Celebration. Musical movement by DJ Equad and DJ Syncere. Champagne toast and dinner buffet. TV Bar, 2554 Grand River Ave., Detroit, 313-965-4789. (9 p.m.-4 a.m.)
New Year's Eve Celebration. Includes hors d'oeuvres, a gourmet dinner, premium beverages, late-night snacks, part favors, DJ and dancing. Zuccaro's Banquet & Hall, 46601 Gratiot, Chesterfield Township, 586-530-6272. $60. (7:30 p.m.-1:30 a.m.)
New Year's Eve Extravaganza. Featuring the Bugs Beddow Band. Andiamo Novi, 42705 Grand River Ave., Novi, 248-348-3838. (8 p.m.)
New Year's Eve Family Fun Run/Walk. One mile and 5K events. Registration begins at noon at the Belle Isle Casino. Proceeds benefit Special Olympics, Michigan chapter. Visit belleislefunrun.com. Belle Isle, Belle Isle Park, Detroit, 313-393-4075. $25. (noon)
New Year's Eve Music & Comedy Jam. Starring Thornetta Davis and Detroit's own Star Search grand prize comedy champion Horace HB Sanders. VIP reception, buffet dinner, open bar, DJ, dancing, pizza and Champagne toast at midnight. Silent auction and raffle proceeds to benefit the Lincoln Park Rotary Club Community Project, the Lincoln Park Railsplitters football field and the Penrickton Center for the Blind. Park Diamond Banquet Center, 25160 Outer Dr., Lincoln Park, 313-381-3663. $70, $120 per couple. (8 p.m.)
New Year's Eve Party. Includes premium bar, party favors, Champagne toast, surf and turf dinner and music from Rockestra. Andiamo Dearborn, 21400 Michigan Ave., Dearborn, 313-359-3300. $100 per person, $175 per couple. (8 p.m.)
New Year's Eve Party with In2theblu. Includes buffet dinner, party favors and Champagne toast. Rusty Nail, 35703 Groesbeck Hwy., Clinton Township, 586-790-4311. $10.
New Year's Eve Retox. Featuring 60 Second Crush, Soot, Mound Road Engine, Motown Rage, A.S.S. and more. Champagne or Jager toast, pizza and balloon drop at midnight. The Ritz, 24300 Hoover, Warren, 586-756-6140.
New Year's Eve with Flywheel. No cover, drink specials all night and a Champagne toast at midnight. The Detroit Pub, 1326 Brush, Detroit, 313-963-3500. Free.
New Year's Eve with Superlast. With Crashing Cairo and the Dregs. Complete with complimentary snacks and a Champagne or PBR toast at midnight. Small's, 10339 Conant, Hamtramck, 313-873-1117. $10.
New Year's Eve with the Detroit Blues Band. Blue Goose Inn, 28911 E. Jefferson Ave., St. Clair Shores, 586-296-0950.
New Year's Eve with Time Machine. Includes a strolling buffet, cash bar, non-alcoholic beverages, dessert, party favors, a midnight toast and two sets of time traveling classic rock. Village Theater at Cherry Hill, 50400 Cherry Hill Rd., Canton, 734-394-5300. $45. (9 p.m.)
Northville Nite Family New Year's Eve Party. Carnival games, music, food, crafts are only a few of the activities on this fun-filled family night. Northville Recreation Center at Hillside, 700 W. Baseline Rd., Northville, 248-349-0203. (4:30 p.m.)
NYE @ The Lights. Dance with DJ Frankie Banks and guests. Celebrate with the Northern Lights Lounge family with a free buffet and $5 splits to toast in the new year. Northern Lights Lounge, 660 W. Baltimore, Detroit, 313-873-1739. $5.
NYE 1ForAll. Open bar from 9 to 11 p.m., mini bottle of Champagne, buffet at 12:30 a.m. and more. Dress to impress. Live at PJ's, 102 S. First St., Ann Arbor, 734-623-1443. $35. (9 p.m.-4 a.m.)
NYE 2012 @ Torino. Premium bar access from 9 to 11 p.m., free hors d'oeuvres 11 p.m. to 1 a.m. Torino Espresso + Bar, 201 E. Nine Mile Rd., Ferndale, 248-247-1370. $30 per person, $50 per couple. (8:30 p.m.-4 a.m.)
NYE 2012 with Kenneth Thomas. With Dabura and Shawn Michaels. Bleu Detroit, 1540 Woodward Ave., Detroit, 313-974-7799. $5-$15.
NYE at Chromatics Lounge. Featuring Les Belles Angels and Serieux. MotorCity Casino Hotel - Chromatics Lounge, 2901 Grand River Ave., Detroit, 866-782-9622.
NYE at Radio Bar. Featuring performances by Linda Lexy and Lutalo. MotorCity Casino Hotel, 2901 Grand River Ave., Detroit, 866-752-9622.
NYE Dinner. Special four-course or six-course menu. Visit thehillgrossepointe.com for info. The Hill Seafood & Chop House, 123 Kerchaval Ave., Grosse Pointe Farms, 313-886-8101.
NYE ROB 2012. No cover and entertainment courtesy of the Reefermen. Call for reservations. Royal Oak Brewery, 215 E. 4th St., Royal Oak, 248-544-1141.
NYE with Jamie Lissow. He's a high energy performer from the East Coast who appeared on all the late night talk shows and in his very own special on Comedy Central. Ring in the New Year with him in an unforgettable show. 10:30 p.m. show includes party favors and Champagne toast at midnight. Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase, 314 E. Liberty, Ann Arbor, 734-996-9080. 8 p.m. $25, 10:30 p.m. $30.
O'Mara's New Year's Eve Blowout. Groove into 2012 with funk, R&B and Motown courtesy of Even Exchange. O'Mara's, 2555 W. 12 Mile Rd., Berkley, 248-399-6750. $5. (9:30 p.m.)
Passion: New Year's Eve 2012. Tonic, 29 S. Saginaw St., Pontiac, 248-334-7411. $20. (9 p.m.-4 a.m.)
Precious Little Diamonds. Haute to Death and Macho City DJs present their annual New Year's Eve dance party. Expect sweet tunes, glitter, open bar, late night snacks and plenty of fabulousness. Park Bar, 2040 Park Ave., Detroit, 313-962-2933. (10 p.m.-4 a.m.)
Ralphe Armstrong. Performances from 5 to 8 p.m. and 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. Dirty Dog Jazz Cafe, 97 Kercheval Ave., Grosse Pointe Farms, 313-882-5299. $20. (5 p.m.)
Resolution Ball. The annual Resolution Ball features nine bars, a Korbel Champagne countdown, party favors, balloon drop, confetti storm and a midnight buffet of sliders, Coneys, pizza and more. DJs Tommy Holiday and Cue spin the tunes and the Detroit Fly House provides a high-flying show of aerialists, acrobats, fire performers and strolling illusionists. Three ticket levels are available; VIP includes mezzanine access, hors d'oeuvres and a 7-hour premium bar. Room packages and shuttle service available from the Marriott Renaissance Center. The Fillmore, 2115 Woodward Ave., Detroit, 248-543-1000. $30, $65 & $100. (9 p.m.-4 a.m.)
Resolutions@5th. Includes a complimentary midnight buffet and broadcast of the ball drop from Times Square. Call for more info on available packages. Fifth Avenue Ballroom, 25750 Novi Rd., Novi, 248-735-4011. $20. (5 p.m.-4 a.m.)
Ring in the New Year at the Reserve. Enjoy an open bar, heavy hors d'oeuvres, sweets table and Champagne toast at midnight. Live entertainment and dancing provided by the Simone Vitale Band. Tickets include tax, gratuity and valet parking. For information or to purchase tickets, contact Laurie Djya at [email protected]. The Reserve Birmingham, 375 S. Eton St., Birmingham, 248-647-7774. $100. (8 p.m.)
Roberts Riverwalk Hotel New Year's Eve Celebration. Hors d'oeuvres reception 8-10 p.m., two complimentary drinks, party favors, live entertainment, midnight bubbly toast and 1 a.m. breakfast buffet. Hotel packages available. Roberts Riverwalk Hotel and Residence, 1000 River Place, Detroit, 313-259-9500. $75 per person, $140 per couple. (8 p.m.-4 a.m.)
Rock the '80s. Caesars Windsor, 377 Riverside Dr. East, Windsor, 519-258-7878.
Rocking Blues New Years Eve. Hosted by Mark Pasman. Includes seated dinner, dancing, entertainment, party favors and Champagne toast. Callahan's Music Hall, 2105 South Blvd., Auburn Hills, 248-858-9508. $15, $35 includes dinner. (6:30 p.m.)
ROCKnDUB. Featuring Crop Circle with DJ Matt Clarke, DJ Antonio Bliss, DJ Decibel Drone, the Delix and Kid Bobo. Other entertainment includes an illusionist and caricaturist, as well as a balloon drop and Champagne toast at midnight. The Crofoot Ballroom, 1 S. Saginaw St., Pontiac, 248-858-9333. $35, $60 couples. (9 p.m.-2 a.m.)
Salsa Explosion. Two floors of music with special guest DJs. Special dinner packages available, call for reservations. Sangria, 401 S. Lafayette Ave., Royal Oak, 248-543-1964.
Scrumthousand '12. Multiple floors of bands, DJs and performers including Marco Polio & the New Vaccines, Phantom Cats, Slufter, Lenny Stoofy, Breezee One, Deastro, Duane the Teenage Weirdo, Carjack and more. The Paper House, 1314 Broadway St., Detroit. (8 p.m.-4 a.m.)
Some Like it Hot - New Year's Eve 2012. Featuring Afrobeta, Phat Kat, Border Patro and Wattle Green with Nick Jagger, Hugh Cleal, Matt Clarke, and Calico. The Works Detroit, 1846 Michigan Ave., Detroit, 313-961-1742. $10-$20. (8 p.m.-6 a.m.)
Splash Bash & Family Fun Fest. Indoor water park, accommodations, party favors, continental breakfast, bounce house, non-alcoholic Champagne toast and family-friendly shows in the ballroom from 7 p.m. to midnight, including clowns, illusionists, storytelling and more. Best Western Inn & Conference Center, 34911 Van Dyke, Sterling Heights, 586-979-1400. From $199.99, based on 4 person occupancy. (7 p.m.)
Tallulah New Year's Eve Party. Exclusive prix fixe menu with optional wine pairing, live music, midnight ball drop and Champagne toast. Seatings at 5, 7:30 and 10 p.m. Tallulah, 155 S. Bates St., Birmingham, 248-731-7066. $85 per person, reservations required. (5 p.m.)
The Countdown: New Year's Eve 2012. Performances by Ben Sharkey and Free Beer, midnight Champagne toast, party favors and more. VIP includes five drink tickets, hors d'oeuvres and balcony seats. Royal Oak Music Theatre, 318 W. Fourth St., Royal Oak, 248-399-2980. $20, $50 VIP. (9 p.m.)
The Detroit Cobras. With K.I.D.S., the Frustrations, Amy Gore & her Valentines and Kommie Kilpatrick. Magic Stick, 4120 Woodward, Detroit, 313-833-9700. $15. (8 p.m.)
The Drop 2011. Two packages available: $75 package includes open bar, food Champagne toast and party favors. $25 package includes cash bar, food, Champagne toast and party favors. Pulse Detroit, 156 Monroe, Detroit, 313-420-0313. $25 & $75.
The Fred Eaglesmith Traveling Show. The Ark, 316 S. Main St., Ann Arbor, 734-763-8587. $27.50. (8 p.m.)
The Marty Ballog Trio New Year's Eve Show. Dylan's Raw Bar and Grill, 15402 Mack Ave., Grosse Pointe Park, 313-884-6030. Free. (8 p.m.)
The Oakland New Year's Eve Gala. Celebrate 2012 Prohibition-style at this classic cocktail joint's swanky soiree. The fete features light hors d'oeuvres and pastries, complimentary glass of punch, reduced prices on 'request only' cocktails, parting gifts for the first 50 guests, a big band playlist and more. Nostalgic apparel encouraged. Reservations required. The Oakland Art Novelty Company, 201 9 Mile Rd., Ferndale, 248-291-5295. $35.
The Roaring Twenties. Tickets start at just $25 for this glam 1920s-themed shindig which includes party favors, midnight Champagne toast and hors d'oeuvres. Tickets guarantee admission before 10:30 p.m. Black Finn, 530 S. Main St., Royal Oak, 248-582-9460. $25.
The Sugar House NYE 2011. First seating from 5 to 9 p.m. includes five drink tickets, live entertainment and appetizers. Second seating from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. includes five drink tickets, Champagne toast, live entertainment and appetizers. E-mail [email protected] to purchase tickets. The Sugar House, 2130 Michigan Ave., Detroit, 313-962-0123. First seating $50, second seating $60. (5 p.m.)
The Ultimate Countdown. Entertainment, Champagne toast, balloon drop and a full breakfast buffet after 2 a.m. Pandemonium, 415 E. Congress, Detroit, 313-961-5005. $40. (8 p.m.-4 a.m.)
The Ultimate Grand Celebration. Dine at one of the casino's signature restaurants, dance in the clubs, play at the tables and crash in the four star hotel. Reservations recommended for dinner in the restaurants and advance tickets recommended for parties at V and Ignite. MGM Grand Detroit, 1777 Third St., Detroit, 877-888-2121.
The Whitney's New Year's Eve 2012. Enjoy a four-course dinner with wine pairings and live music. Seatings at 4, 6 and 9 p.m. The exclusive afterparty takes place from 10 p.m.-2 a.m. in the third floor Ghost Bar and features an open bar, Champagne toast, hors d'oeuvres and entertainment from the PanaMo Group. 9 p.m. seatings include admission to the afterparty or purchases tickets for just the afterparty. Call for reservations. The Whitney, 4421 Woodward Ave., Detroit, 313-832-5700. (10 p.m.)
Token Lounge NYE Party. Featuring Lost Reality, One Click Gorilla, Until Solace and Crutch to Crown. Token Lounge, 28949 Joy Rd., Westland, 734-513-5030. $6. (6 p.m.)
Vicente's New Year's Party. Special menu, salsa lessons, DJ, dancing, Champagne toast and a balloon drop. Vicente's Cuban Cuisine, 1250 Library St., Detroit, 313-962-8800.
Wallace Roney Sextet. Internationally renowned jazz trumpter performs inside the intimate Knight's Templar Chapel. New Year's Eve performance includes an after party including party favors and a big screen viewing of the ball drop in Times Square. An optional buffet dinner before the concert is also available. Masonic Temple, 500 Temple St., Detroit, 313-832-7100. $53 & $63, buffet $20.12 extra. (9 p.m.)
Welcome to 2012. Includes deluxe accommodations, dinner buffet, evening-long entertainment, dancing in two ballrooms, Chamapagne toast, pizza service, party favors and $20 credit per couple toward breakfast on Jan. 1. Entertainment courtesy of Persuasion and DJ Mechial E. White the Groovematist. Weber's Inn, 3050 Jackson Ave., Ann Arbor, 734-769-2500. $369 per couple, $219 per couple without hotel room. (7 p.m.)
Whitey Morgan & the 78's. With Katie Grace, Bull Halsey and Rachel Brooke. Magic Bag, 22920 Woodward Ave., Ferndale, 248-544-3030. $15. (8 p.m.)
Wicked. Detroit Opera House, 1526 Broadway, Detroit, 313-872-1000.
Zazios New Year's Eve. Featuring a special Chef Table deluxe five-course dinner with bubbly pairings at 6 and 9 p.m. Regular menu with several New Year's Eve specials will also be available. Reverse happy hour begins at 9 p.m., with complimentary appetizers and a Champagne toast at 11. Zazios Birmingham, 34977 Woodward Ave., Birmingham, 248-530-6400. $90 for Chef Table event.
Zin Wine Bar New Year's Eve. Specially created fare for the big night, plus optional wine pairings and a complimentary toast at midnight. Call for reservations. Zin Wine Bar and Restaurant, 555 Forest Ave., Plymouth, 734-455-9463.
