The Chicago Traveler

Start the New Year with a little color'

' Hydrate: Why celebrate 12 midnight just once? Ring in the New Year for every time zone! The celebration includes an exclusive pre-NYE party, a hosted bar featuring Effen Vodka and Pilsner Urquell Beer, a delicious appetizer buffet, and a complimentary champagne toast. DJ Jeannette spins tracks well into the wee hours of the morning. (8 p.m. ' 4 a.m., $30-$50) (map) (link)

' North End: This bar is all about beer, boys, and bowls'college bowls, that is. Stop by for some barstool football with the guys without having to worry about a cover. However, the North End knows that even a beer guy needs a champagne toast at midnight. (open 'til 3 a.m., no cover) (map)

' Charlie's: Save a horse, ride a cowboy. This little piece of country in the big city will host an open top-shelf bar, gourmet buffet, and champagne toast. The small bar will only hold a small crowd (a little over 200) so get your tickets soon. (9 p.m. ' 1 a.m., $50) (map) (link)

' Roscoe's: One of Chicago's best-known gay bars, this Boystown hotspot will be offering tasty hors d'ouevres, party favors, complimentary coat check, and, as always, great music. Indulge in $12 Stoli pink lemonade pitchers while $2,000 worth of cash and prizes are given away at midnight. Come early though: they won't be taking reservations. (8 p.m. ' 2 a.m., $25) (map) (link)

' Spin: Music videos on giant screens keep the party pumping all night long. Enjoy hors d'oeuvres, party favors, midnight champagne, and a video countdown with VJ Terp. (8 p.m. ' 2 a.m., $20) (map) (link)

' Sidetrack: Chicago's biggest and possibly most popular gay bar celebrates New Year's Eve with a sunny-island theme, complete with a steamy fashion show. Take advantage of the complimentary luau bites (until 10 p.m.) while enjoying the hosting skills of Circuit Mom and a special performance by Miss Foozie. A portion of proceeds benefit Equality Illinois. (7 p.m. ' 2 a.m., $20 via www.eqil.org) (map) (link)

' Gentry: This downtown cabaret and martini bar with a cosmopolitan flair is proud to present Mikey O'Connell along with Brian Felder from 9 p.m. ' 1 a.m. Settle into one of the many nooks and crannies for an enjoyable evening of conversation, appetizers, party favors, champagne, and a balloon drop at midnight. Doors open at 4 p.m., cover charge after 8 p.m. (4 p.m. ' 1 a.m., $20) (map) (link)

Photo credit: (c/o Flickr) RandomlyRoaming, Michael L