New Year's Activities in Chicago, Illinois

If you're in Chicago to celebrate the New Year, or just happen to be visiting over Christmas break, there's plenty to do and see to end the year in style! Chicago's vibrant entertainment district, art culture, and nightlife hub bring together people of all ages and backgrounds for weekly parties and events to remember. This year, pack those bags and head over to the Windy City; you'll get to enjoy any or all of the following activities:

Even though it's New Year's Eve, you can still enjoy Macy's Holiday Window displays along State Street. The 13 windows are dressed and decorated to tell the Mary Poppins story this year, nd the displays run through January 7. Enjoy your stroll with this annual tradition, and then stop by the Museum of Science and Industry to take in the Annual Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light exhibition. The exhibit is perfect to round off your post-Christmas blues, since you can view over 50 Christmas trees from a variety of ethnic traditions and stories.

Enjoy a New Year's dinner at Lawry's Prime Rib at 100 E. Ontario Street. The menu features Egyptian-inspired dining extravagances and cocktails. Chose from fresh hummus and pita, prime rib, salads, fresh fish, and a showstopping dessert: a chocolate Egyptian scultupure filled with a sumptuous hazelnut mousse. Call (312) 787-5000 for your group reservation and dine like a king for the last time this year!

For one of the city's most popular New Year's gatherings, head over to Chicago's Navy Pier for the 2006 New Year's Eve Gala. Make the best of the open bar, appetizers, live DJ entertainment, and a champagne toast at midnight. A balloon drop and fireworks will kick off 2007 in true party fashion with local hosts of Chicago's WKSC 103.5FM radio station. Tickets are $150 per person, and you can reserve your spot by calling (773) 248-4045.

If you're in the mood for a live performance, book your seat at the Briar Street Theatre for the Blue Man Group production. This nationwide hit show combines comedy, music, and physical talent for a one-of-a-kind performance. The theatre is located at 3133 N. Halstead Street, and tickets range from $49-$59, available through Ticketmaster at (312) 902-1500.

Enjoy a New Year's Eve brunch at SushiSamba Rio , Chicago's only caiprinha bar. This popular nightclub and dining destination offers chic and contemporary décor, with influences from Japan, Peruvia, and Brazil. Indulge from the sushi bar for some fresh Samba rolls, or opt for the family style brunch that includes Warm Brazilian Churros, Doce de Leite French Toast, or a traditional Japanese breakfast. Located at 504 N. Wells Street, SushiSamba Rio is your choice for specialty cocktails and a distinct and unique menu. Stay late for the midnight celebration, but do call ahead for reservations at (312) 595-2300.

For your fun-filled night of champagne toasts and unlimited cocktails, head over to the Hyatt Regency on 151 E. Wacker Drive for live DJ entertainment from 9 p.m.-3 a.m. The Crystal Ballroom will be filled to capacity for a view of Chicago's famous Michigan Avenue, so be sure to book your overnight stay at one of the complex's two towers. Prices range from $129-$159, plus an extra $30 for the unlimited cocktail bar access; this year, guests will also enjoy a tribute to Dave Matthews by the band Crash.

Enjoy the vibrant nightlife, culture, and entertainment of the Windy City for New Years this year at a variety of top spots and destinations. From live performances to music, you'll find plenty of events and activities for you and your fellow party-goers. Enjoy from buffet lunches and brunches on both New Years Eve and New Years Day with specials at local restaurants. Enjoy ringing in 2007 with a fresh New Year's spirit in Chicago!