Ever notice how many ads in newspapers this time of year tout festive things to do on New Year's Eve? The Prowler has also noticed that almost every ad carries two important prerequisites: money and a honey.
The commercialization of the holiday can make one feel financially and socially "less than," but there are plenty of ways to avoid walling up at home with a bowl of popcorn or ice cream and watching It's a Wonderful Life or various New Year's Eve countdowns.
How about checking out parties at clubs and pubs? The places may be small, but they pack a powerful punch with music, dancing, snacks, drink specials and favors. Nearby San Jose as well as Cupertino, Sunnyvale and Palo Alto have lots to choose from. Even going alone isn't as bad as it seems: Chances are there's more than one lonely person with the same idea. And what a propitious night for new beginnings.
If getting out and about is your thing, why not round up a few friends and drive over the hill? Both Santa Cruz and Monterey, which share different ends of the same bay, are holding their annual First Night celebrations.
First Nighters can while away the last hours of 1996 in an alcohol-free street-fair atmosphere with food and craft vendors, live music, comedy and entertainment and kids' activities. Think of it as a long block party. Entrance into certain indoor venues requires a small fee for a First Night button, but it's a cool button and supports a cool nonprofit community activity. Call
425-7277 for info.
Driving home that late on Highway 17 is a scary thought, which is why the Prowler and a significant other cat camped last year and left the next day. There are several campgrounds and motels in the vicinity.
Wherever you go, please don't drink and drive. Alpha Cab Company offers free rides on New Year's Eve, and county transit buses are free, too. Happy New Year!
This article appeared in the Los Gatos Weekly-Times, December 25, 1996.
©1996 Metro Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved