Best 2009 New Year's Eve Parties in Indianapolis

No question - 2008 has been a wild year, with political and economic event in the spotlight. Maybe that is reason enough to take time to savor a New Year's Eve party or other special activity, whether it is a hotel event or a family-oriented party. When it comes to celebrating New Year's Eve, Indianapolis really does it right. There are a huge variety of choices those in the area. At least one of the following New Year's parties or attractions ought to suit your tastes:

Beef and Boards offers Indianapolis a New Year's Eve party, show, dinner buffet and breakfast.

Best known for theatre productions, New Year's Eve is no exception, since there will be a Christmas show, edging towards the new year. However, there are some very special features added to recognize New Year's Eve. In addition to the show, guests will enjoy dancing till midnight, champagne toasts, dinner (earlier in the evening) and a breakfast buffet at 1 am. Plan to make a night of it and catch A Christmas Carol or other holiday themed production.

This Indianapolis New Year's event is best for: adults, although children are not excluded. The late hours could be a challenge for them, however.

Ticket prices and location: individual tickets range from $72.00 (pre-sale) and $88.00. For details call (317) 872-9664 or visit the website here

Beef and Boards

9301 N Michigan Road

Indianapolis, IN 46268

Embassy Suites is an Indianapolis tradition for New Year's Eve parties

This New Year's party tends to sell out early so call ahead to make your reservations. The special includes 2 adults and one room for $199 with a nod to New Year's late night partying - and a late checkout time. There will be favors, champagne, a DJ, dance party and more. Cocktails will be served from 6-8 pm and breakfast and all around merriment will be the order of the evening - and morning. Perhaps this party could substitute for your usual holiday vacation- and it would be a bargain price in comparison!

This Indianapolis New Year's event is best for: adults, although children are allowed to stay in the rooms. Please note: the pool will not be open but most New Year's Eve celebrants don't seem to mind.

Location:

Embassy Suites

3912 Vincennes

Indianapolis, IN 46268

(317) 872-7700

Looking for a New Year's event with elegance, charm and a bit less noise? Check out Oakley's New Year's Eve event in Indy

This is a favorite locale and Oakleys manages to come up with new menus every year, as well as festive touches that draw admiring cries from patrons. You may be lucky enough to get a special seat in the kitchen or just savor the New Year's Eve menu. Again, reservations fill up quickly so call ahead. While there may not be a balloon drop or wild yells, you may find New Year's Eve parties at Oakleys (perhaps with some select friends) to be a soothing way to say goodbye to 2008 and welcome 2009.

This Indianapolis New Year's event is best for: anyone, including children old enough to sit still and savor good food.

Location:

Oakleys Bistro

1464 W. 86th Street

Indianapolis, IN 46260

(317) 824-1231

(call ahead for final New Year's Eve menu, time and details)

Website: Oakleys Bistro

If a New Year's Masquerade Ball seems ideal, check out the Budweiser New Year's Eve Ball

Located in the very traditional and historic Union Station, the ball has everything from jugglers to belly dancers and even human "statues", able to pose amazingly still, looking like mannequins. Entertainment will include wire artists, bands and more. Tickets cost $50 ahead of time or $99 for VIP tickets. After December 1, prices are likely to go up (again, call for details). VIP tickets include 10 drink tickets and access to the VIP Lounge for New Years Eve. The lounge will have appetizers, desserts, champagne punch and more. Time: 8 pm - 2 am.

Of course, being in costume is expected and prizes will be awarded for costumes with the best use of feathers, sequins and other touches.

This Indianapolis New Year's event is best for: adults

Call (317) 782-0724 for more information

Location:

123 W. Louisa Street

Indianapolis, IN 46202

(317) 888-444-0401

Website: here

For a family New Year's event, consider visiting the Indiana State Museum on December 31

This one is absolutely appropriate for families. The entire State Museum will be open and there will be special music, Peewinkle's Puppet Show and games, New Year's crafts, magicians and even clowns. What fun! The festivities last from 6 to 8 pm, perfect for children. The final price is not yet determined but reservations are strongly requested.

This Indianapolis New Year's event is best for: families

Location:

650 W Washington St

Indianapolis, IN 46204

(317) 234-1022 or (317) 232-1637

Other Indianapolis New Year's events worth checking out:

Rathskeller New Year's Eve Party - website here

New Year's Eve Rock N Roll at the Hyatt (317) 616-6030 (rumor has it that Henry Lee Summer may appear).