December 27, 2007

Where to be when midnight strikes
Party in style on New Year’s Eve
By Alec O’Meara aomeara@hippopress.com

When it comes to ringing in 2008, there are plenty of options available throughout the state.

Whether it’s dancing the night away, enjoying a quiet dinner or catching a great live concert, there is something available for everyone on New Year’s Eve. Here’s a quick list of some of the top parties ready to pop open the champagne on Monday, Dec. 31.

In Manchester, the Black Brimmer (1087 Elm St.) will feature its Never in Vegas party, as well as complimentary hors d’oeuvres and a champagne toast. Tickets cost $30 and are available by calling 669-5523. Over at Milly’s Tavern (500 Commercial St.), the entertainment is Rock ‘N Rebels, a classic rock band playing songs from its new album until 1 a.m. Tickets cost $15 in advance and $12 at the door. Visit www.millystavern.com to learn more.

There’s no cover charge to hear Josh Logan play at J.W. Hill’s (795 Elm St.), and attendees will have the chance to buy raffle tickets for the “Josh Logan Schwag Bag” leading up to the club’s champagne toast.

The Breezeway (14 Pearl St.) is “stripping away” its cover charge for the evening and offering a complimentary champagne toast as well. Monday nights are cabaret nights at the Breezeway with Robert D. Down the street, Club 313 is opening up all three of its rooms and offering complimentary hors d’oeuvres. Tickets are $10 at the door.

Fratello’s (155 Dow St.) meanwhile is planning a twin bill, with comedy by Robbie Printz and music by DJ Nick Lamberti, a cash bar, hors d’oeuvres and dinner buffet. There’s a “no jeans” dress code and a $69.95 cover charge.

Wally and Bernie’s (20 Old Granite St.) will feature live video from New York, hats, party decorations, and all-night music at its New Year’s Eve party.

Earlier in the evening, the Palace Theatre (80 Hanover St.) will present a special New Year’s Eve concert by the Palace Festival Orchestra at 6 p.m. The concert will be directed by Robert C. Babb. Tickets cost $36 to $40 and are available by calling 626-7825. Also, the Manchester Monarchs will be hitting the ice for their final game of 2007 at 6 p.m. at the Verizon Wireless Arena (555 Elm St.). After the game, the team will ring in the new year with an indoor fireworks display. The Verizon is offering special New Year’s Eve four-packs for $57. Visit www.monarchshockey.com to learn more.

Down in Nashua, the Amber Room (53 High St.) is hosting its first annual New Year’s Eve gala this year, opening both the Amber and Retro Rooms to clubbers. House DJs Rick Naples, Danny and Jonny C will be holding the music down, and a live feed from Times Square will broadcast the ball as it drops. Tickets cost $25 in advance and $40 at the door.

Del Vaudos (112 W. Pearl St.) will be hosting Brickyard Blues for New Year’s and is offering a buffet along with its traditional toast for a $40 cover. Fody’s will offer dining, dancing, a show by One Fine Mess and champagne for a $35 cover.

For a more refined evening, Michael Timothy’s (212 Main St.) is offering a four-course dinner to the music of Four-N-More. Dinner costs $100, which includes a champagne toast. Seating must be called for ahead of time at 595-9334.

Out in Portsmouth, The Gas Light Co. (64 Market St.) is hosting the New Year’s Eve White Party on the nightclub’s third floor. All staffers, including music master DJ Biggie, will be dressed in all white party wear, and the dancing will last until 2 a.m. White attire is also requested for attendees. Regular admission is $50, with $70 for VIP admission. Promoter-musician Chad Verbeck is headlining a New Year’s Eve Bash at the Blue Mermaid (at Hanover and High streets) along with fellow musicians Charlie Christos and Seth Gooby. After midnight, the party will go from a gathering of songwriters to a full on dance party. Tickets cost $10.

In Dover, Superfrog and Lost in Verona are anchoring the New Year’s Eve celebration at the Dover Brick House (2 Orchard St.), with a $10 cover charge for the in-house festivities.

Up in Concord, the Pit Road Lounge (388 Loudon Road) will be featuring Code 3, party favors and a champagne toast. Tickets for the party cost $15.

Alan’s (133 N. Main St.) of Boscawen is planning a New Year’s Eve dance party that will feature the stylings of CJ Carlos in the Panda Lounge along with a champagne toast. Tickets cost $15.

In Keene, The Tom Foolery Band is leading the party at McCue’s Billiards (12 Emerald St.). Tickets are available by calling 352-2110.

For more country fare, the Circle 9 Ranch (Windymere Drive) in Epsom is offering a “Gala New Year’s Party” presented by Sandy Moore and Bob Johnson with a family-style ham dinner catered by the Carons and music by Outlawed. There will also be bubbly and party favors for all. Tickets cost $25 for a couple, $15 for a single person.