In this city there are plenty of ways to bid 2014 adieu, from a haunted house to a Hawaiian feast to a night of improv. Traditionalists need not worry—you can also indulge in parties complete with countdowns, balloon drops, and party favors, not to mention there’s nary a square foot of Chicago without a champagne toast at midnight. Some of our top New Year’s Eve picks are below, with an ever updating list here.
The Good Life Wed 12/31, 9 PM, Abbey Pub, 3420 W. Grace, 773-463-5808, abbeypub.com.
Pelican, the Life & Times Wed 12/31, 9 PM, Subterranean, 2011 W. North, 773-278-6600, subt.net.
Maya del Sol Both a la carte and prix fixe options are available, along with an open bar, music from the Steve Edwards Orchestra, and a champagne toast. Wed 12/31, 10 PM, Maya del Sol, 144 S. Oak Park, Oak Park, 708-358-9800, mayadelsol.com, $50-$115.
Ready to Dine There are three seatings for this 90s-hip-hop-inspired party with a dim sum menu including lobster dumplings, foie gras wontons, and champagne-mango pudding. Wed 12/31, 5:30, 7:30, and 9:30 PM, Fat Rice, 2957 W. Diversey, 773-661-9170, eatfatrice.com, $98 per person, sold in pairs.
Uncommon Ground Seatings for a four-course prix fixe menu are available from 5 to 10 PM, followed by a late-night buffet, open bar, and music from Uptown Shakedown. Wed 12/31, 5 PM-1 AM, Uncommon Ground, 3800 N. Clark, 773-929-3680, uncommonground.com, $55.
