Ring in 2014 with a Bang

Image from Flickr via Hackee Chang

Okay, so Christmas hasn’t even come and gone, but you know you’re already thinking ahead to New Year’s Eve. What to do? What to wear? It’s a lot of pressure. And since Chicago’s never short on awesome things to do, you’re sure to find something extra special to ring in the New Year.

Our friends at Time Out Chicago did all the research, and we’re top-lining our favorites to make your planning even easier.

Go out to eat

From Michelin star-rated gems like L2O and Tru to more casual spots like Reno and DMK Burger Bar, there are a ton of great Chicago restaurants offering celebratory specials on New Year’s Eve.

Hit the club

Prefer to send 2013 out with a bass-pounding bang? Clubs like The Mid, Parliament, The Underground and Studio Paris will ensure you’re dancing your way into 2014.

Give back

Have fun and give back by attending a charitable casino night at The Palmer House Hilton. All the winnings to go the Starlight Children’s Foundation, so at midnight, you can raise your glass to doing good.

See a show

Spend your night ringning in the new year — literally. Popular musical acts like Zedd (at The Aragon), Motion City Soundtrack (at Bottom Lounge), Jimmy Eat World (at House of Blues), and Flosstradamus (at The Riviera) will help rock you straight into 2014.

Stay in

If a house party is more your speed, why not liven it up a bit by sabering a champagne bottle? Learn how by following these tips, also from Time Out Chicago.

And whatever you do, have fun and be safe. Remember, the Chicago Transit Authority — in partnership with Miller Lite — is offering free rides on all buses and trains from 10pm on New Year’s Eve to 4am on New Year’s Day, so you have no excuse but to get home safely.

Here’s to a great 2014! Cheers from all of us at Chicago Food Planet.