If you're going to choose one night of the year to go all out and not think about how much money you're spending, New Year's Eve is it. But we don't want to see you drop huge amounts of cash without getting something in return. Here are the top five events that should be worth their high price tags.
Bull & Bear
8 p.m.-2 a.m.; $115
We can't promise that you'll see "Bachelorette" stars Ed Swiderski and Jillian Harris here, but it's probably your best bet to spot them - or other Chicago celebs. Chances are that heavy hitters will go for the $1200 VIP package, which includes eight tickets plus a VIP booth with one of the famed table taps and a bottle each of premium vodka and champagne. If you're not prepared to drop that kind of cash, the regular admission price still gets you six hours of premium open bar, heavy passed appetizers and entertainment from Jesse Seeley, and free admission to Stone Lotus afterward.
Cuvee
9 p.m.-1 a.m.; $125
If you're going to spend like you're high-class, you might as well look like it, too. Semi-formal attire is required at this James Bond-themed bash at one of the city's newest nightclubs, but we say go black tie. It'll put this party, featuring four hours of open bar and "butler passed" hors d'oeuvres, over the top.
Drake Hotel
9 p.m.-2 a.m.; $135-$195
9 p.m.-2 a.m.; regular admission $135-$195, VIP $200-$275 We picked this bash over all the other pricey hotel parties because, let's face it, you're not going to have too many chances to spend an evening at the famed Drake Hotel. And Chicago Scene also knows a thing or two about throwing parties - this one will include premium open bar 'til 1 a.m., gourmet hors d'oeuvres, a live cover band AND DJs (including DJ JEM) and more.
Le Passage Discotheque
9 p.m.-1 a.m.; $120
We know what you're thinking - you spent New Year's here in 2002. But the place has changed its image since then, growing along with its clientele. Its mature party includes a gourmet dinner buffet from Drawing Room chef Nick Lacasse to go along with the four-hour premium open bar and champagne splits at midnight. If you're still young at heart, the ticket price also includes free admission to the after-party, which goes 'til 4 a.m.
Pops for Champagne
Should we really have to explain the reason for going to a bubbly bar for New Year's Eve? Ok, fine. The bash here includes premium open bar from 9 p.m.-12:30 a.m., heavy hors d'oeuvres from the acclaimed kitchen, dessert and party favors for $130 ($150 if you want a table or booth). The Ava Logan Quartet performs in the jazz club for $60 a ticket.
Looking for more bang for your buck? Check out more lavish New Year's Eve events.
More picks:
Kid-Friendly | Cheap Choices
Dinners | Concerts | Theater
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