Instead of dealing with expensive taxi, hotel and event fares in the city, consider trying out one of these fun and local events for New Year's Eve 2007.
Residents of smaller towns and cities near a larger metropolitan area are often tempted by the glitz and glamour that comes with celebrating special occasions downtown. However, the financial cost is often greater than the average citizen can afford. Here are some ideas for celebrating a more affordable New Year's Eve in and around Oshawa.
Fazio's Restaurant and Wine Experience
Enjoy a delicious formal New Year's Eve dinner party at Fazio's Restaurant and Wine Experience, located at 33 Simcoe Street North in Oshawa, Ontario (905-571-3042). Live entertainment will be provided by jazz pianist Paul Grecco beginning at 7:00 in the evening. Two dinner seatings are available. For the first seating the menu is open, and for the second seating a special fixed menu will be provided, including appetizer, main course and dessert selections. In addition, party favours will be provided for a midnight countdown celebration. The price for the second seating menu is $75 per person. Fazio's has an extensive wine list available for pairing with the meal. For more information, visit their online New Year's Eve flyer.
General Motors Centre
Oshawa Celebrates 2008! From 6:00 in the evening until 12:30, admission is free for this annual family event at Oshawa's new General Motors Centre. Located at 99 Athol Street East in Oshawa, Ontario (905-438-8881), the General Motors Centre will have free family ice skating until 10:00 pm and a family-friendly early "midnight celebration" and balloon drop at 9:00 pm. Live entertainment will be provided, including Suzie McNeil, who will take the stage at 10:45 pm. Non-perishable food items can be donated on site in support of local food banks. For more information, click here for the local flier.
Le Skratch Billiards, Bar and Grill
If dancing and drinking cocktails is a more desirable option, celebrate the arrival of 2008 at Le Skratch, located at 200 John Street West (Midtown Mall) in Oshawa, Ontario (905-438-0008). For a cover price of $15, enjoy live entertainment, a champagne toast and party favours at midnight. A buffet dinner will be available at additional cost. The Groove Lounge at Le Skratch will be open for a singles party, including a buffet and party favours. This event is free of charge, sponsored by PlentyofFish.
Johnny B's
The Sands Trio performs its tribute to the legendary Rat Pack, Dean Martin, Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis Jr., at Johnny B's, located at the AMC Theatre Complex in Whitby, Ontario (905-666-7629). The cost for this dinner and show is $95 per person including gratuities and taxes. Doors will open at 7:00 pm.
Don't forget to plan ahead, have fun, and remember to drink responsibly this New Year's Eve. Happy 2008!
