What are you doing New Year’s Eve?

The one night of the year where everyone is expected to go out and have a good time often creeps up before you can decide what your plans are.

It’s not always easy for kids to stay up until midnight to celebrate, so get your fancy clothes on and celebrate as a family during the day at the Children Museum’s Top Hats and Tiaras from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Wednesday, December 31. Free with regular museum admission, the event has live entertainment from magician Evan Morgan and soul-funk band The Solutions. It also includes a pizza lunch and ginger-ale toast to the hour.

Stay at The Forks for an early celebration starting at 5 p.m. with face painting, skating, hot chocolate, music from local bands and fireworks at 8 p.m..

For a classy party, Winnipeg’s premiere event on New Year’s Eve is at the RBC Convention Centre, with this year’s theme of Hollywood Glam. Walk the red carpet into the night’s biggest party, including a five-course meal and dancing to the tune of the 21-piece Ron Paley Big Band. Call 204-957-4545 for ticket information.

You can always stay at home and celebrate with friends and neighbours by watching the big apple fall on TV or having a small party – but if still you’re in the mood to get out and dance, without going too far from home, here are a few options:

Dance the night away with friends and family in Brunkild at Bring On The New Year at the Brunkild Memorial Recreation Centre. Dinner is served buffet style and can accommodate many dietary restrictions. After dinner and dessert The Legacy Band will be playing popular country and rock songs all night – stopping for a countdown and champagne toast at midnight. Tickets are $60 and can be reserved by calling Margret at 204-736-3838 or Kelsey at 204-736-3751.

For a casual event head into St. Norbert and spend New Year’s Eve at The Nob in the St. Norbert Hotel where George Harley and the Dropkicks will be keeping the dancefloor hot until 2 a.m. Tickets are $10

Once the party is over the New Year is a great reason to get outside and spend some time with your family in in the community and nearby.

New Year’s Day at Fort Whyte Centre offers horse-drawn sleigh rides from noon to 3 p.m.  Bundle up and keep your eyes open for tracks in the snow or some furry-coated animals as you explore the natural winter wonderland. Warm up with a hot chocolate after the ride and continue your learning inside the interpretation centre. Tickets are $15 for adults and $8 for children under 12. Call 204-898-8355 to make a reservation.

Have a safe and festive holiday and a happy New Year!