Over the past few years, local New Year’s Eve celebrations have become less opulent and more creative, but there’s still something for everyone, from expensive multicourse dinners, downtown fireworks, and all manner of musical offerings to events tailored for children, teetotalers, spiritual seekers, and others who party to the beat of a different drummer. Some things that haven’t changed are the traditional transportation deals–it’s still just a penny to ride the CTA from 8 PM New Year’s Eve to 6 AM New Year’s Day, a free trolley runs from Navy Pier to the Grand Avenue Red Line stop from 10 PM until 2 AM, and certain Metra trains will run late (call 312-836-7000). For those driving, there’s free coffee at some Illinois Tollway oases. Listings are based on information available at press time; see our Web site, chicagoreader.com, for updates.
CHICAGO
ATHLETES UNITED FOR PEACE LAST RUN OF THE YEAR
Grant Park
Drake Hotel
Museum of Science
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This deluxe party features hip-hop, house, trance, bhangra, and hindi music spun by DJ Aladdin and DJ Sunny Singh. The $125 ticket price also gets guests a four-hour premium open bar, hors d’oeuvres, dessert, champagne at midnight, front-row seats for the Navy Pier fireworks display, and a discounted rate of $119 at the Fairmont Hotel. Formal attire is requested, and you must be over 23 to attend. For more information see www.chicagodesiscene.com.
