New Year's Eve has a hot date with Saturday night.
And as such, the courtship has prompted those who set the stage for such celebrations to take advantage of the rare pas de deux with all manner of events and parties.
The city of Gainesville's Downtown Countdown — which returns as the only free, public celebration inside the city limits — runs from 9 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. at the Bo Diddley Community Plaza and will offer two crowd-pleasing bands, streamers and confetti, and the sound of free noisemakers passed out to the audience.
The outdoor bash will start at 9 with classic rock and Americana sounds from the group Couch Messiahs, followed by the R&B/funk of Fast Lane, a group led by Scott Free, a longtime area singer and guitarist known for his association and performances with the plaza's namesake — Bo Diddley — after Diddley moved to North Central Florida in 1978.
"The first group, Couch Messiahs, will do about an hour, and then Fast Lane will get going and play to about 12:30 a.m.," said David Ballard, event coordinator for the city of Gainesville.
The usual security is bolstered each New Year's Eve by an army of extra patrol officers who use police barriers to prevent overcrowding and for checkpoints to inspect vehicles, enforce a ban on alcohol and check handbags. Revelers will see bomb-sniffing dogs, heavily armed counter-terrorism teams and NYPD helicopters overhead.
What won't be as evident are the plainclothes officers assigned to blend into the crowd and other officers keeping watch from rooftops. Many officers will be wearing palm-size radiation detectors designed to give off a signal if they detect evidence of a dirty bomb, an explosive intended to spread panic by creating a radioactive cloud.
The bomb squad and another unit specializing in chemical and biological threats will sweep hotels, theaters, construction sites and parking garages. They will also patrol the sprawling Times Square subway station.
The NYPD also will rely on a new network of about 3,000 closed-circuit security cameras carpeting the roughly 1.7 square miles south of Canal Street, the subway system and parts of midtown Manhattan. In recent years, police stationed at high-tech command centers in lower Manhattan began monitoring live feeds of Times Square, the World Trade Center and other sites.
Times Square isn't the only show in town this New Year's Eve — or the only security concern. Police also will be beef up patrols in Central Park, site of a midnight run, and at fireworks displays at the Statue of Liberty.
The NYPD harbor unit will keep an eye on 33 dinner cruises on the city's waterways. Add to the list the Phish concert at Madison Square Garden.
On a smaller scale in outlying neighborhoods, police are concerned about a phenomenon seen in past years: people who ring in the new year by firing guns into the air.
Temporary cyclone fences surround Sydney's best vantage points as the masses arrive with fold-up chairs, rugs, shopping bags and booze.
Excitement is in the air and the crowds are expecting a jaw-dropping start to 2012 with fireworks billed as the best in the world.
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"I didn't want to take any chances, so just stayed the night," said 26-year-old Brendan Mullen, who camped out overnight at Balmain to ensure a prime position.
"I reckon it'll be worth it."
Tourist Manuel Forgiarini said he planned to have the night of his life.
"I come from a small town in the north of Italy so we don't have these kinds of fireworks. It's usually just some small party with family," the 26-year-old said.
"I've always wanted to come here... We're just going to keep drinking until the police come and take our drinks away."
Security guards in yellow vests have spent the day checking bags at turnstiles blocking off the Opera House and Mrs Macquarie's Chair.
"I've never been here before," said software engineer Neda Hillyer, who moved to Australia from the US with her husband Sati Hillyer three months ago.
"We're pretty stoked. I've never celebrated New Year's Eve with 1.5 million people."
With her parents visiting from Los Angeles, Mrs Hillyer brought along a bottle of shiraz, unaware that organisers are not allowing spectators to bring in their own alcohol.
Mrs Macquarie's Chair, with a capacity of 20,000, is the biggest venue along the harbour foreshore, followed by the Tarpeian Precinct on the western side of The Domain, which can hold 6000.
Jennie, a software engineer from earthquake-damaged Christchurch in New Zealand, visited Circular Quay with her 14-year-old daughter in the early afternoon.
That probably in itself was the largest inspiration, given what's taken place all over the world, not only in Australia," he said.
"It really gave me inspiration, for want of a better word, to think about more optimistic things for the years to come."
Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore was optimistic the weather would be good.
"I'm absolutely confident," said Ms Moore, who will watch the fireworks from the Opera House forecourt.
"There's no forecast for wind at all. We don't think it's going to be raining when the fireworks go off."
Skies above Sydney are cloudy but are gradually clearing as crowds begin gathering along some of Sydney Harbour's best vantage points.
Hundreds of revellers have already staked their ground at the Botanical Gardens, as well as the Opera House and the Balmain foreshore.
Melbourne plans to burst into gold with a $400,000 fireworks display lasting 10 minutes.
Gold-themed images will also be projected on to St Paul's Cathedral, the State Library of Victoria and the National Gallery of Victoria, as part of the celebrations which harks back to the gold rush era.
Families can enjoy free entertainment at Yarra Park, Birrarung Marr and Alexandra Gardens and earlier fireworks at 9.30pm (AEDT) at Yarra Park and Docklands.
With Sydney's fireworks containing seven tonnes of explosives, Melbourne Lord Mayor Robert Doyle said, "If size matters, we're the biggest".
"The Harbour Bridge is beautiful, but when you see the gold that is the Melbourne moment this year, it will be absolutely spectacular," Mr Doyle said.
Crowds can travel home from the city on public transport for free from 6pm on New Year's Eve until 6am.
Hundreds of police will patrol the city and coastal hotspots including the Surf Coast, Mornington Peninsula and Phillip Island to crack down on drunken revellers.
An extra 150 paramedics will be on duty across the state, with an additional 16 ambulances in the CBD and St Kilda.
New Year's Eve parties started a whole day early on the South Pacific island nation of Samoa, after a hop across the international date line transported the country 24 hours into the future — making it the first in the world to ring in the new year.
Samoans began celebrating under a rainbow of fireworks at the stroke of midnight on Thursday, Dec. 29 when the country skipped over Friday and moved straight into 12:01 a.m. on Dec. 31.
Samoa and neighboring Tokelau lie near the date line that zigzags vertically through the Pacific Ocean, and both sets of islands decided to realign themselves this year from the Americas side of the line to the Asia side, to be more in tune with key trading partners.
The time-jump revelry in Samoa continued throughout Saturday as the hours ticked down to 2012. Pools and beaches across the capital Apia were packed with Samoans and tourists celebrating the country's sudden position as the first in the world to ring in the new year, rather than the last.
Despite the extended festivities, Samoan police said there had been no reports of any problems.
"More than 90 percent of our people really appreciate the change, and that contributes to its success," said one official who could not be named as he was not authorized to speak publicly.
At the year's end, many in Japan were left reflecting on the fragility of life, while remaining quietly determined to recover.
"For me, the biggest thing that defined this year was the disaster in March," said Miku Sano, 28, a nursing student in Fukushima city. "Honestly, I didn't know what to say to these people, who had to fight sickness while living in fear about ever being able to go back home. The radiation levels in the city of Fukushima, where I live, are definitely not low, and we don't know how that is going to affect our health in the future."
People across Japan were expected to spend Saturday visiting shrines and temples, offering their first prayers for the year. The giant hanging bell at temples will ring 108 times to purify the world of evil and bring good luck.
Kouichi Takayama, a university student, said 2011 was a year he would never forget.
"It was a year I felt the preciousness of life with a passion," he said. "But I was also able to catch a glimpse of the warmth of human relations, and reconfirm my gratitude for family, community and everyday life. I hope I can connect meaningfully with more people next year to create a Japan that truly endures toward the future."
In the southern Philippine city of Cagayan de Oro, people were still reeling from deadly flash flooding sparked by Tropical Storm Washi. The storm killed more than 1,200 in southern and central Philippines, 800 of which were in Cagayan de Oro.
For Ana Caneda, a disaster relief official in Cagayan de Oro, the new year "offers a new ray of hope."
"It's going to be a relief to write the date 2012, not 2011," Caneda said.
In Hong Kong, more than 400,000 people were expected to watch the 4-minute, $1 million display of fireworks that will shoot off from 10 skyscrapers, lighting up the city's famed Victoria Harbour.
Raymond Lo, a master of feng shui — the Chinese art of arranging objects and choosing dates to improve luck — said he wasn't surprised that 2011 was such a tumultuous year because it was associated with the natural elements of metal and wood. The year's natural disasters were foreshadowed, Lo said, because wood — which represents trees and nature — was attacked by metal.
2012 could be better because it's associated with ocean water, which represents energy and drive and the washing away of old habits, Lo said.
"Big water also means charity, generosity," Lo said. "Therefore that means sharing. That means maybe the big tycoons will share some of their wealth."
Together as One The gargantuan shindig moves from the L.A. Coliseum and takes on an all-star lineup of entertainment, including Diplo, Chromeo, Duck Sauce and more. The night culminates with a multimedia countdown and fireworks display. Oak Canyon Park, 5305 Santiago Canyon Road, Silverado. 5 p.m.-2 a.m. General admission, $70; VIP, $150.
White Wonderland New Year's Eve Gala Giant's "Big Time" event has merged with Insomniac to create a party so huge it had be extended into a two-day festivity. Live talent includes Paul Van Dyk, Kaskade, Dada Life and more. Anaheim Convention Center, 800 W. Kantella Ave., Anaheim. 6 p.m.-2 a.m. Saturday, 7 p.m.-2 a.m. Sunday. $100-$250. http://www.giantclub.com.
Big Bang 2012 More than 5,000 revelers are expected to attend Hollywood's most expansive New Year's Eve celebration, which includes a slew of celebrity DJs, dancers and live performances from Cobra Starship and Lupe Fiasco. Hollywood & Highland entertainment complex, 6801 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. $75-$125. (323) 461-9800 . bigbangnye.com.
New Year's Eve Celebration Party in style aboard the historic Queen Mary ocean liner, with seven onboard parties and styles of music, including jazz, '70s, '80s, even a dueling piano sing-along. Includes party favors, dancing and a midnight fireworks display. Queen Mary, 1126 Queens Highway, Long Beach. 8 p.m.-2 a.m. $99. (818) 566-1111 . http://www.queenmary.com.
Cleopatra's New Year's Eve Ball Celebrate 2012 in style along the Walk of Fame in the beautiful Egyptian Theatre courtyard. Enjoy DJs spinning dance tunes, balloon drop, confetti blast, a giant LED light show and much more. Egyptian Theatre, 6712 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood. 9 p.m.-3 a.m. $85.
Las Palmas Block Party One ticket allows revelers entry to the Hip Hop party at Las Palmas, the House Music scene at Premiere Supper Club and the rock stage at Angels and Kings. Each club will have a midnight countdown. Las Palmas, Premiere Supper Club, Angels & Kings 1716-1724 N. Las Palmas Blvd., Hollywood. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. General admission, $75 advance; VIP, $125.
New Year's Eve Gala The South Bay's largest New Year's Eve party brings Vegas-style entertainment to the coast. DJs spin house, hip-hop, top 40 and electro, plus aerialists, dancers and performers, not to mention a high-tech midnight countdown show. Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center, 1935 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Redondo Beach. 8 p.m.-2 a.m. $45-$65. (323) 378-5207 . http://www.maxentertainmentgroup.com.
Black and White Masquerade Ball The evening's festivities feature music by DJ Frankie, laser light show, complimentary hors d'oeuvres 9-10:30 p.m., and the mandatory midnight champagne toast. Masks and cocktail attire required. Wokcano, 1413 5th St., Santa Monica. 8 p.m.-2 a.m. Advance tickets, $40; New Year's Eve, $50. (310) 497-6324 . http://www.wokanonewyear2010.eventbrite.com.
Vivid New Year's Eve The official Vivid Entertainment New Year's Eve party, with Mark Lewis, Armen, Anthony Shah, Angeline, Blackliquid and Gago spinning house and progressive, plus an outdoor tent of mash-ups and hip-hop by DJ Sklyler. Plus hundreds of porn stars. Ecco Ultra Lounge, 1640 N. Cahuenga Blvd., Hollywood. 9 p.m.-4 a.m. $40. http://www.eccohollywood.com.
Pierro's Italian Bistro and Sky Lounge: There are dinner packages for two at the downtown Pierro's location at 217 Hay St. After dinner, the restaurant transforms into Sky Lounge and features a DJ, dancing, party favors, champagne toast and a countdown. Pre-book tickets for $10 per person, which will guarantee entrance into the club. To pre-book, call 678-8885 or go to pierrositalianbistro.com.
It'z Entertainment City: The sports bar, cigar bar and night club at 4118 Legend Ave. will host a party with party favors and a champagne toast at midnight. Admission is $15 in advance, and includes admission to the night club. Call 826-2300 or go to itzentertainmentcity.com.
Club Barcelona: The club at 1501 Skibo Road will feature a live ball drop, indoor pyrotechnics show, confetti and balloon drop. The Times Square ball drop will be shown on the club's TVs and projectors. The club is open from 9 p.m. until 2:30 a.m. Admission is $20. Call 483-2671 or go to clubbarcelona.com.
Club Hellas: The club at 3041 N. Main St. in Hope Mills will feature big-screen TVs showing the Times Square ball drop, a DJ, champagne toast and early morning breakfast. The downstairs sports bar will feature a band. There is no cover charge downstairs. The upstairs cover charge is $15. Call 426-4040 or go to clubhellas.com.
SpeakEasy Nightclub: New Year's Eve offers some options at SpeakEasy at 3983 Sycamore Dairy Road. You can party in the nightclub for a $20 admission, which includes party favors, champagne and a surprise at midnight. Or, you can hang out in the cigar and martini bar for no cover charge and still snag some party favors. The cigar bar opens at 8 p.m., while the nightclub opens at 10. Live entertainment will be provided. Call 339-2404 or go to speakeasync.com.
The Rock Shop Music Hall: The music venue is celebrating its fifth anniversary with a bash. Verrat will headline the concert and will be joined by Tonic Immobility, Any Color You Like, A Breath Forgotten and The Separate. Tickets are $10. The club is at 128 S. King St. Doors open at 6 p.m. Call 321-ROCK or go to therockshoplive.com.
VIA 216 Bar & Grill: The club in the Tallywood Shopping Center on Raeford Road will offer Latin music and dancing and a balloon drop with more than $1,000 in cash at midnight. Doors open at 9 p.m., and the party goes until 3 a.m. Must be 18 to enter and 21 to drink. ID is required, and dress code is enforced. Call 486-7832 or go to via216.com.
Big Shots Entertainment Sports Bar & Grill: Big Shots, now at its new location at 3138 Raeford Road, will host a Sunset to Sunrise New Year's Eve party beginning at 6 p.m. Admission is free before 10 p.m., and $25 after. Advance tickets available. The nightclub will serve breakfast and champagne to ticket holders. Admission includes favors, a mini bottle of champagne and a chance to win a trip to Las Vegas. The party ends at 6 a.m. Call 480-4883.
The Big Apple: The sports bar at 5900 Yadkin Road will offer a champagne toast, balloon drop, black/silver/gold theme and dress-up contest (in that theme). Admission is $8 for women and military members 21 and over, $10 for civilians, and $15 for under 21. The party starts at 10 p.m. Call 868-5559 or go to bigapplefay.com.
Club Xscape: The nightclub at 1940 Skibo Road will host a "Once In a Lifetime" upscale party featuring Foxy 99 DJs Tommy G Miix and DJ Weezy. The party is a 21-and-over affair, and will also offer a champagne toast and favors. Tickets are $15 at the door, with discounts for military. Call 802-7087.
Big Harry's Tavern: The bar, located at 3030 Fort Bragg Road, will welcome 2012 with a karaoke party from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. There's no cover. The party includes champagne and breakfast. Call 484-9842.
Drifters Saloon: This Spring Lake country bar will offer a champagne toast, DJ and drink specials. $10 for singles and $15 for couples. 412 1/2N. Bragg Blvd, Suite C. Call 436-1092.
Holiday Inn Bordeaux: The hotel at 1707 Owen Drive will host the WCCG 104.5 New Year's Eve party beginning at 7 p.m. The event features two parties, as the fun will be spread across two floors, featuring multiple DJs, free food and champagne, and party favors for all, as well as prizes and giveaways. Tickets are $10 to $25 in advance and $40 at the door. Only 21 and older are admitted. Go to ez-tixx.com or call 877-993-8499 for tickets. Call 484-4932.
Double Tree by Hilton Hotel: The hotel at 1965 Cedar Creek Road is hosting a New Year's extravaganza featuring Reggie Codrington with Buddy McLeod and the 2 Reel Band along with DJs Gilbert Baez and DROC of Foxy 99.1. There will be a champagne toast and free hors d'oeuvres. Tickets are $35 and can be purchased at the Rogers Law Firm, 122 Bow St. in downtown Fayetteville; Edible Arrangements locations in Spring Lake, Hope Mills and Fayetteville; or by going to geminientertainment2011 .eventbrite.com. A special room rate of $109 (plus tax) for two is being offered with breakfast included. Call 964-5828.
Luigi's Italian Restaurant: The restaurant will host a New Year's Eve party featuring live music by Soul Decree, as well as a five-course, fixed menu for two. The cost is $175 per couple. The dinner includes party favors and champagne. Reservations for the special menu are required. A full dinner menu also will be available. Seating will be held from 5-10:30 p.m. 528 McPherson Church Road. Call 864-1810.
Circa 1800: The restaurant, located at 108 Person St., will offer a special three-course dinner for New Year's Eve. For $40 per person, the meal includes a choice of soup or salad, entree and dessert, as well as party favors for the late-night guests and a sidewalk view of the fireworks show at Festival Park. Call 568-4725.
The Mash House: The microbrewery/restaurant will offer a free champagne toast at midnight. No cover. 4150 Sycamore Dairy Road. Call 867-9223.
FOR THE FAMILY
Flea Drop: The "Flea Hill Flea Drop" will be from 10 p.m. until midnight at the Eastover Community Center at 4008 School St. Admission is free. Alcohol is prohibited. For more details, see story on Page 9. Go to eastovernc.com.
Southern Pines: The Moore County town's annual First Eve celebration gets underway at 6 p.m. in downtown. The event includes live music, carnival games, singing contests, face-painting and more. It all builds up to the pine cone drop at 8 p.m. Call 910-692-7376 or go to southernpines.net.
FireAntz Hockey: The FireAntz play a 4 p.m. game Saturday against the Huntsville Havoc. Doors open at 3 p.m. Tickets range from $14 to $20. Children under 12 are $5. Call 745-3000 or go to fireantzhockey.com.
Round-a-Bout Skating: The skating center is offering a New Year's Eve Late Skate from 7 p.m. to 1 a.m. Admission is $12 and includes skates and party favors. Round-a-Bout is at 115 Skateway Drive and the Eutaw Shopping Center. Call the Skateway location at 860-8900 and the Eutaw location at 484-4465, or go to round-a-bout.com.
Lafayette Bowling Lanes: The lanes at 3313 Raeford Road will have a bash from 10 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. The cost is $30 and includes party favors and a buffet. Guests can win cash prizes in colored-pin bowling. Call 484-0113 or go to lafayettebowlinglane.lbu.com
B&B Bowling Lanes: The lanes at 3003 Fort Bragg Road will offer a family bowling party from 6 to 8 p.m. It includes a balloon drop, party favors, music, hats and leis and a grape juice toast. Cost, including shoes, is $40 for the lane. Up to six people can bowl on a lane. An adult New Year's celebration will be held from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. It includes party favors, hats, leis, music and a champagne toast at midnight. Cost including shoes is $20 per person. Call 484-5179 or go to bandblanes.com.
