We know, we know, you haven't even finished your Christmas shopping and we're asking you to switch gears to New Year's Eve.
But here's the plain truth: If you wait too long to make plans, you'll find yourself sitting at home drinking sparkling cider with the kiddies, watching Dick Clark and a cast of thousands counting down the seconds before the ball drops to begin 2007.
That would be too bad — especially considering the variety of New Year's Eve bashes planned around Tucson.
Here's a quick rundown:
In the spirit of James Bond, Club Congress' annual New Year's Eve party will be all things 007. "Congress Royale" will feature bagpipers, blackjack and poker tables, tarot card readings, signature Bond drinks and surprises. Musically speaking, there's the always fun horn-rock of the Jons, the blues of the Sinners, and eclectic DJ Matt McCoy spinning tunes inside. This is in addition to Congress' famous outdoor midnight ball drop and complimentary champagne toasts. Tickets are $12 in advance and $15 at the door, which opens at 8 p.m.
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For another sort of rock, there's Bob Log III and Al Foul tearing into 2007 at Plush. Tickets are $10 in advance; $12 day of the show.
If you just need to dance, there will be DJ Noirtech and DJ Plastic Disease at the Surly Wench with a champagne toast at midnight. The cover is $5.
The Tucson Jazz Society is commemorating 30 years of jazz arts and educational programs with its New Year's Eve party at the JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort & Spa, 3645 W. Starr Pass Blvd.
The party includes performances from some of Tucson's beloved jazz artists, including bassist Brian Bromberg, and a three-course dinner in the Marriott's grand ballroom. It's $125 per person, which includes dinner, entertainment, champagne and valet parking. For reservations, call 903-1265 or go to www.tucsonjazz.org.
Climb into your fancy duds for the Tucson Symphony Orchestra's New Year's Eve shindig at the Arizona Inn, 2200 E. Elm St. The event, part of the orchestra's Moveable Musical Feasts, includes a multicourse dinner and performances from orchestra members.
Tickets are $180 per person through the TSO box office, 882-8585 or online at www.tucsonsymphony.org.
Casino del Sol's AVA, 5655 W. Valencia Road, is hosting a "New Year's Eve Tejano Spectacular" with Jimmy Gonzales y Grupo Mazz, Bob Gallarza & Friends, Hermanos Cuatro and special guest Jimmy Edwards.
It's $75 and $125, which includes an all-you-can-eat buffet, champagne and midnight menudo.
Comedian Jaz Kaner will headline two New Year's Eve concerts at Laffs Comedy Caffé, 2900 E. Broadway.
The early show at 8 p.m. includes dinner; the late show features a midnight breakfast buffet. Tickets are $29.95 for the early show, including dinner; $21 for the early show, concert only. Tickets are $34.95 for the late show. For reservations, call 323-8669.
Head down to La Mision de San Miguel in Patagonia for a night of dancing with the Hog Canyon Band. The evening begins at 7 p.m.. Check out www.lamisionpatagonia.com for more information, including a listing of area lodging.
