New Years Eve Events in Brooklyn

The time has finally come to say so long to 2011. I've seen a lot of people who said this was a terrible year for them. While it wasn't easy, I like to think of it as a year full of life lessons. In doing so, I feel that it was a great year, even with all the challenges. However you see it, tomorrow night is when we welcome in 2012.

If your like many who don't want to spend much money, head on over to Grand Army Plaza or Prospect Park for the fireworks. My neighbor makes this his tradition every year and says it never disappoints him. He says the NYPD tends to be lenient on the drinking policy but that's always a risk. Other have said that a walk across the Brooklyn Bridge is a nice way to save $$ on New Year's Eve. I'm sure you could see the fireworks from around the city. Just be sure to bundle up for the weather.

If you have a few dollars to spend and don't know where you'd like to spend the evening, there are plenty of spots around town to enjoy yourself. Union Hall is hosting a 5/5/5 party. To celebrate 5 years of operations, their party is $5 entrance (yes, 5 bucks for NYE) and $5 drink specials. Plus, after midnight, you will have a chance to win a free iPad (through karaoke, I think). Not bad for a night that usually cost an arm and a leg.

For all my friends out there on wheels, Time's Up is holding their 14th annual New Year's Eve Ride. About.com is reporting that Brooklynites should meet up at the foot of the Williamsburg Bridge in Brooklyn for a group ride up to Central Park. Much like the walk across the Brooklyn Bridge, if you partake in this one, please be sure to dress for the cold weather and winds. It would suck to bring in 2012 with a cold.

If you're looking for something out of the ordinary to ring in New Year's Day, head on down to Coney Island and join the polar bears club for a dip in the Atlantic at 1pm. It will definitely get your blood flowing and shake things up a bit. There is no charge but they do ask for donations for Camp Sunshine, which supports children with life threatening illnesses.

What ever you choose to do to celebrate, I hope that you enjoy yourself. But most of all, I hope you have a safe holiday. People have a tendency to be a bit excessive on this evening. Be aware of how much you drink and those around you. AAA is offering the tipsy tow to get you and your car home safe. Unfortunately for NYC, this only happens in Northern Cali, Nevada and Utah. But fear not. There are many organizations that connect someone with a designated drive, if need be. Check with NDDDS to find one in your area. Be safe, have fun and HAPPY 2012!!!