Last Minute New Year's

It's been said before that New Year's Eve is as an amateur holiday--too many noise-makers, too many Champagne toasts, and lets not forget all those splurges before the resolutions begin. Thankfully, we are in Aspen where we strive for professionalism. This New Year's go big or go home, because here in Aspen there's no such thing as amateur.

Many of the shindigs have filled up already (including Eric's and La Cantina) but if you aren’t a ticket-holder yet, don’t worry because we have your most up-to-date options to ring in 2008.

Belly Up to 2008

Party until Jan. 1 with ZZ Top at the Belly Up. At $550 a ticket, admission is a little steep, but the intimate and rockin' show will be well worth it (trust us). For information about reserved seating call 970-544-8084, or visit www.bellyupaspen.com

For the Family

Grab the little ones and head to the Aspen Recreation Center from 6 p.m. to 1 a.m. where kids 6 and older will enjoy dinner and monkeying around in the pool, climbing tower, ice rink, and youth center. To purchase tickets ($45 for members, $70 for nonmembers) call 970-544-4100, or visit www.aspenrecreation.com

Dance Off

Club Chelsea will keep you dancing into 2008 with two DJ’s, two dance floors, and a bottomless glass (open bar, folks) for $150/ticket. Chelsea will be selling tickets until 4 p.m. so party-goers have plenty of time to stop by 415 E. Hyman or call 970-920-0066 and reserve their spot.

Pub Crawl

Locals will love watching the ball drop at some of our favorite watering holes. At Bentley’s you can celebrate without breaking the bank on a cover charge—plus, Bentley’s offers one of the best spots to watch the fireworks on Ajax at 8:30 p.m. If you are looking to skip all the ballyhoo, head to Little Annie's for a shot and beer, Double Dog for some brews and shufflepuck, or Cooper Street Pier for pitchers and pool.

Safety First

No matter where you choose to celebrate, be safe and leave the car keys at home. Hop on a free RFTA bus or if you have had one too many ask your bartender about Tipsy Taxi--a free taxi service eliminating drinking and driving.

Have a happy and safe New Year! And see you all in 2008.