RING IN THE NEW YEAR AT THESE EAST COUNTY LOCATIONS

By: Jeremy Los

December 27, 2010 (San Diego’s East County) --As the clock ticks closer to midnight, December 31st, some East County hot spots are rushing to create a festive atmosphere for those looking for a  place to ring in the New Year.

If you're still unsure where you will be come midnight Friday night, we offer up a few convenient local options. East County party-goers may choose from parties at local casinos, a brewery, wine bar, restaurants, and an alcohol-free civic celebration.

For those interested in ringing in the New Year at a casino, our sovereign Indian reservations offer a variety of entertaining options.

Barona Casino in Lakeside will hold a “Swinging in the New Year” extravaganza that is free to the public. The party will include live music by the band Big Bad Voodoo Daddy as well as $30,000 in giveaways. www.barona.com.

Viejas Casino in Alpine will be providing a multitude of options to those wishing to welcome the New Year there. Viejas will provide entertainment throughout the casino from 7:30 pm to 1:30 am while also having entertainment in their V lounge and Dreamcatcher Theater. DJ 2Rille, DJ Kiss, Rising Star, and others will provide live music. www.viejas.com.

Sycuan Casino in El Cajon will also be throwing a New Years bash. The casino will be giving away up to $10,000 in prizes with drawings every hour from 7 pm to midnight. Nemesis will be providing live music for 9pm to 1am. www.sycuan.com.

For those not looking for a casino atmosphere on New Years Eve can turn to one of San Diego’s prized breweries. Stone Brewing World Bistro and Gardens in Escondido will be throwing a New Years Eve bash for those over 21. For $150 or $99 for designated drivers, patrons are treated to all-you-can-drink beer, buffet sushi, seafood, and pasta. Sue Palmer & Her Motel Swing Orchestra as well as a live dance party with a laser show and DJ will provide live music. Those attending will also receive a commemorative glass for their midnight toast to the New Year. Party info: http://www.stonebrew.com/calendar/bistro.asp?intEventsID=1238.

If a low-key night is what you strive for then GIO Bistro Wine Bar in La Mesa will offer up a four-course meal to ring in the near year. For $49.99 patrons can enjoy Filet Mignon or Lobster tail and for $69.99 patrons can pair their meal with wine. http://giowineanddine.com/.

Or savor a New Year’s special menu prepared by a Cordon Bleu-trained chef at Jeremy’s on the Hill in Julian for $55 per person ($75 with wine pairing and champagne). To view the menu, click here: http://www.jeremysonthehill.com/Special-Events/New-Year.htm.

Looking for a non-alcoholic New Year’s celebration? You’ll find one at the La Mesa Adult Enrichment Center, 8450 La Mesa Blvd., from 8 p.m. to midnight. The Melody Kings will be performing and a $22 admission fee also includes food, beverages, noisemakers and party favors. Details: http://www.cityoflamesa.com/DocumentView.aspx?DID=1292.

These are just a choice few of the many options available to East County residents and visitors venturing into our county’s inland regions. If attend one of these festive New Years bashes and plan to imbibe, we recommend that you bring a designated driver or call a cab--so you can enjoy a safe and happy New Year.