My favorite part of New Year’s Eve is pure schadenfreude: watching people dressed for Hawaii stumbling about New England in the dead of winter. I’m talking about people asking for hypothermia and embarrassing spills– ladies donning stilettos (many of whom have never worn real heels before) and micro-mini dresses and men leaving their coats behind. For those who are not so easily entertained by people-watching, there are plenty of other ways to spend your New Year’s Eve.

A free “trolley” and double-decker bus will be running from Old Wethersfield to Bushnell Park, stopping at Lucky Lou’s (in Wethersfield), Carbone’s, Costa del Sol, J Restaurant Bar, and the park. The Carbone’s website lists New Year’s Eve specials. If nothing else, this could be free transportation into Downtown for those living near any of the stops.

O’Porto and Francesco’s Ristorante are just a few other restaurants outside of Downtown that are offering New Year’s Eve menu specials.

An alcohol-free option is the traditional First Night event, which features fireworks displays at six and midnight. The evening’s program includes jazz, storytelling, improv, tarot card readings, zumba lessons, and carousel rides. Tickets to this event are $10 for adults and $2 for children.

Another option is a masquerade ball with a great view of the fireworks:

There are loads of Downtown restaurants and bars with New Year’s Eve events and special menus. You could easily walk from place-to-place, so I won’t list them all here. Whatever you do, dress warmly and drive responsibly– whether you drink or not.