Now that the insanity of gift buying, holidays with the in-laws, and Boxing Day shopping is over, you can finally get some rest — that is, until New Year’s Eve. Chances are that you procrastinated on plan-making, hoping that everything will fall into place at the last second. Ever wondered why your celebrations seem haphazard in retrospect? Let DailyXY help you make sure your New Year starts with recollecting — instead of regretting — what you got up to the night before.
MMXII at The Blue Dog Motel
It’s no secret that Blue Dog throws some of the messiest, lively and ‘unmemorable’ parties in the city. Of late, James Krown has been known to spin pop-punk anthems by the likes of Blink 182 or G.O.B., but to celebrate the New Year he’ll be returning to his electro roots, mashing up quintessential hip-hop tracks with house bangers. With a $35 cover charge that includes all-you-can-drink, this event is sure to appease those who see New Year’s as a time to get loose. 3958 St-Laurent Blvd. 514-848-7006
Nouvel An at SAT
The it-club when it comes to annual events in Montreal, the Société des Arts Technologiques (SAT) always books the biggest names for its celebrations. To kick off the New Year they’ve brought in the best local acts for house/electro music, including Jacques Greene, who made our Music 2011: Best of Montreal list. Pre-tax tickets are $25 a pop in advance (MOOG Audio, Atom Heart, Off The Hook) or $30 at the door. 1201 St-Laurent Blvd. 514-844 -033
Party du Jour at NouJveau Palais
If you’re hoping to avoid showing off your two left feet, or are simply past ringing in the New Year with debauchery, check out Nouveau Palais for a night of unbeatable eats and shmoozing. A prix fixe menu for merely $44.95 is a steal, and DJs Mitz & Seez are, in our opinion, the most underrated audiophiles in Montreal. While the emphasis here isn’t on getting completely blasted, there will be tequila-a-plenty and disco that will keep you shimmying in your seat. 281 Bernard St. W. 514-273-1180
Dirty Beaches at Jackie & Judy
Looking to escape the clubs without losing out on a crowd? Lesser-known Jackie & Judy is a rock and roll venue situated on the perimeter of Little Italy. This New Year’s, they’re hosting pop phenomenon Jef Barbara, local indie celebrities Grand Trine and Vancouver-native Dirty Beaches. For $12 at the door, this party is surely the most bang for your buck — giving you some extra change to put towards that bubbly. 6512 Parc Ave. 514-303-2333
Crew Year’s Eve at Blizzarts
Another affordable event with attitude, Crew Year’s Eve is a collaboration between Montreal favourites DJ Hatchmatik and promoter DL Jones. Cycling through hip-hop, disco, funk and frankly “whatever works,” Hatchmatik is renowned for being able to read crowds and cater to what they enjoy most. Ten bucks at the door will give you all-access to a party designed to keep you up while wearing you down. 3956 St-Laurent Blvd. 514-843-4860
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Image courtesy of Cristina Jennifer