Plenty to do on New Year's Eve

New Year's Eve will be hopping at local bars and restaurants this year, giving locals a wide array of entertainment and dining choices.

Some shows, like the party at Port Cape Girardeau featuring the Memphis, Tenn., band Interstate 55, are already sold out, though Port Cape Girardeau owner Dennis "Doc" Cain said some openings could come available.

And some restaurants are already booked solid, like the fine dining establishment Celebrations. Owners James and Pat Allen said New Year's Eve is one of their two biggest nights of the year, along with Valentine's Day. Celebrations will put anyone who didn't get reservations on a waiting list in case some openings come up.

Several downtown Cape Girardeau bars will host bands, as will the American Legion Hall in Jackson -- where the Classic Country Band will play a New Year's Eve dance concert -- and Schock's Pub in Scott City, which is giving patrons free local rides to and from the show with Designated Driver.

For more information on local New Year's Eve events see Thursday's SE Live or Friday's edition of the Southeast Missourian.