Anderson Speedway New Year’s Day Bash

Anderson Speedway. AroundIndy.com staff photo.

Anderson Speedway
Press Release
http://www.andersonspeedway.com/

UPDATE 1/2/2012: This event has been rescheduled to Saturday, Jan. 7, 2012, due to inclement weather on New Year’s Day.

Anderson Speedway begins the 65th season of racing action on Sunday afternoon, January 1, 2012, with the 13th Annual Aqua Systems New Year’s Day Bash. Featured divisions include Figure 8’s, ThunderCars, Mini Cups along with Front Wheel Drives on the Oval and Figure 8.

The Aqua Systems New Year’s Day Bash annually draws nearly 100 cars that compete on the World’s Fastest Quarter-Mile Oval on January 1. In the most recent Aqua Systems New Year’s Day Bash feature winners included Ronnie Rose (ThunderCars), Jeff Williams (Front Wheel Drive Oval) and Nick Warner (Front Wheel Drive Oval Figure 8’s).

On Sunday, spectator gates open at 11 a.m. with the racing program going green at approximately 1 p.m, weather permitting.

General admission tickets will be priced at $10 for adults, $4 for children 6-12 with kids five and under admitted free.

For additional information on Anderson Speedway, visit www.andersonspeedway.com or contact Anderson Speedway at 765-642-0206.

January Events in Downtown Indianapolis

Artist's Rendition of Super Bowl Village. Provided by the 2012 Indianapolis Super Bowl Host Committee and used with written permission.

By Brittany Smith
Indianapolis Downtown, Inc.
http://www.indydt.com/

Ch-ch-ch-changes

Unwind into 2012 by kick-starting your New Year’s resolutions! January is National Hobby Month, so what better reason to incite your creative side than with a quilting class at Crimson Tate or a class in jewelry making at Heirloom Classics? This is the year you finally wean yourself off takeout. Every Saturday, let the Indianapolis Winter Farmer’s Market be your guide to ensuring your kitchen is five-star-meal ready with local ingredients. Tame the bulge with a work-out and wellness routine at one of Downtown’s fitness centers, like the National Institute for Fitness & Sport. Become at peace with mind and body through the exploration of yoga at Invoke Yoga Studio. Looking for a way to give back in the new year? Volunteer with Downtown organizations like Second Helpings and Wheeler Missions.

Holiday happenings coming to a wrap

Still searching for one last dose of holiday cheer? Downtown opportunities are plentiful. Catch one final glance of the Circle of Lights^® presented by the Contractors of Quality Connection and Electrical Workers of IBEW 481 through Jan. 6. Don’t miss Jolly Days Winter Wonderland at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, ending Jan. 9. Be sure to hop aboard Jingle Rails at the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art before it leaves the station Jan. 9. 

Many ways to celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

Jan. 16 is a day set aside to commemorate a leader who forever impacted human rights in our society. Celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Downtown! The Indiana State Museum, Eiteljorg Museum, IMAX Theatre, Indianapolis Zoo and the NCAA Hall of Champions host Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration providing FREE admission with a donation of a canned food item for Gleaners Food Bank. Come to Martin Luther King Jr. Day at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis with FREE admission. In addition, the Indianapolis Museum of Art will host Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Celebration with art making activities and art-related games.

Open wide for a beast of a feast

Stay warm this January by bellying up to a delectable meal in one of Downtown’s restaurants. Hightail it over to Indianapolis’ biggest showcase of food and drink with Devour Downtown Winter Jan. 9 – 22. Choose from more than 45 restaurants offering three -course meals for $30 each and several offering two entrees for $30. Warming up to the idea, aren’t ya? For more information, check out www.devourdowntown.org.

Cheer your heart out

Get fired up for the Indianapolis Colts as they face off against the Jacksonville Jaguars Jan.1! Thaw yourself out at Downtown’s hot sporting events! The Indiana Pacers hit the hardwood of Bankers Life Fieldhouse numerous times in January (7, 11, 14, 24, & 31). For 86 years, the iconic Harlem Globetrotters have thrilled audiences around the world, be sure to catch them Jan. 16 at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. More than 500 school, youth league and all-star cheer teams from all over the country face-off in the JAMfest Nationals Championships Jan. 13 – 15 at the Indiana Convention Center. Tumble your way to Circle of Stars Gymnastics Invitational Jan. 20 – 22 at the Indiana Convention Center. Puck around with the Indiana Ice Jan. 18 – 22 at the Pepsi Coliseum.

Best Bargains Parking

Now for the 13^th year, parking during Bankers Life Fieldhouse events remains affordable. The Downtown Parking Partnership, with the City, has put together the Best Bargains Parking program. Reduced parking rates are in effect during Pacers games and other Fieldhouse events.  More than 7,000 parking spaces are available in the Wholesale District on xx Fieldhouse event days ranging from $1.50 to $6. Click here for a list and map. http://www.indydt.com/bestbargains.cfm.

At a theater near you

Resolution #135 – Live it up! Downtown is a magical place to see a show, be it the symphony, your favorite band or a comedy showcase. See Debbie Does Dallas at Theatre on the Square now – Feb. 4. The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra continues to charm audiences with January performances including Bronfman plays Brahms (Jan. 5 – 7), Hello, Dolly! In Concert (Jan. 13 – 15), Stella Artois Happy Hour at the Symphony (Jan. 19) and more!

Cozy up to a classic film during the Indianapolis Museum of Art’s Winter Nights Film Series in The Toby every Friday, Jan. 6 – Feb. 24. January films include The Black Pirate, Leave Her to Heaven, A Matter of Life and Death and The African Queen. Hone in on the experiences of the 20^th century black middle class during the soul-sapping play August Wilson’s Radio Golf at the Indiana Repertory Theatre Jan. 10 – 29. The Phoenix Theatre will host the black comedy Current Economic Conditions Jan. 12 – Feb. 12.

Get tangled up in the newest thrilling show to hit the ice, Disney on Ice Presents Dare to Dream Jan. 18 – 22 at Conseco Fieldhouse, followed by a slew of rock bands invading the Rock & Worship Roadshow Jan. 28. Alternative rock band Jack’s Mannequin will take the stage at the Old National Centre Jan. 28. Don’t miss a beat!

For a complete listing of Downtown performing arts events, visit http://www.indydt.com/eventsearch.cfm

Downtown Indianapolis in the spotlight for Super Bowl XLVI

Downtown Indianapolis will be the home field starting Jan. 27 for Super Bowl XLVI!  If you weren’t lucky enough to snag a seat, there are still several wallet-friendly options for the days leading up to the big game. The Super Bowl Village (see image above) will transform the heart of Downtown into a FREE, family-friendly fan gathering spot. The Village will feature live performances by dozens of local, regional and national bands on two stages, a 650 ft. zip line over Capitol Avenue and much more! The Indiana Convention Center will transform into an 800,000 square-foot pro football interactive theme park Jan. 27 – Feb. 5. The NFL Experience includes participatory games, displays, full-sized football fields, NFL combine activities, Vince Lombardi trophy, youth football clinics, entertainment attractions, autograph sessions and a giant football memorabilia exhibit. Take a stroll down Mass Ave, a designated Super Celebration Site, for live entertainment, extended business hours, theater performances and more! For more information on Super Bowl XLVI happenings in Downtown Indianapolis, visit www.indianapolissuperbowl.com.

Visit www.indydt.com for more events and information or call 317-237-2222.

January Events in Bloomington and Monroe County

IU Basketball at Assembly Hall on the Indiana University campus. Photo provided by Bloomington Convention and Visitors Bureau and used with written permission.

By Julie Warren
Bloomington Convention and Visitors Bureau
http://www.visitbloomington.com/

Happy New Year!  It’s a new year, so make the resolution to try some new activities this year.  Even though these January days can be cold and blustery, don’t let the grey skies get you down.  With all the exciting events taking place in Bloomington this month, you’re sure to be too busy to get the winter blues.  You can kick the year off right with by attending the Cardinal Stage Company presentation of Annie on New Year’s Day.  This heart-warming classic is sure to make the entire family smile.

If you really want to get your blood pumped this month, head over to Assembly Hall to watch an IU men’s basketball game.  The Hoosiers are hot this year and tickets are still available for most games, especially the January 5^th game against Michigan, when classes are still on break.  Or check out the women’s basketball team, who take on some Big Ten opponents at home this month.  If you’re looking for another intense winter sport, head over to University Gym to watch some top-ranked Hoosiers wrestlers grapple.  Collegiate sports are hot in January!

For music lovers, the IU Jacobs School of Music has a full schedule this month, presenting numerous concerts that feature student and faculty musicians.  These top-notch performances are always impressive and many are free to the public, which is always nice after the holiday shopping season!

As the month comes to a close the events are still going strong!  One of the last events of the month is also one of the first festivals of the year: the Pride Film Festival.  This annual film festival focuses on films featuring themes that deal with gay, lesbian, bisexual and transsexual issues or made by members of the GLBT community.  There are also special presentations throughout the weekend, and a dance party to wrap up the festivities on Saturday night.  It’s a great way to see new and innovative films, and maybe expand your perspective—or just have fun!

Another event that last weekend of the month is Eagle Watch Weekend.  This weekend long event features education sessions about eagles, plus multiple viewing opportunities at Lake Monroe.  The organizers have designated locations near the water’s edge where they attract eagles so participants can drive by and see these majestic birds up close.  It’s a great family-friendly activity and a unique experience.

There are many more events, shows and performances taking place this month, including live local music every night of the week!  For more information on events, restaurants, shopping and attractions, go to visitbloomington.com.  You’ll also find some fantastic hotel deals this month and next!

January 2012

Cardinal Stage Company presents: Annie
Jan 1
Ivy Tech John Waldron Arts Center, 812-323-3020

IU Coach’s Show
Every Monday, 6:30pm
Holiday Inn, 812-334-3252

Ryder Film Series
Every Thursday, 7:30pm
FARMbloomington’s Root Cellar, 812-323-0002

IU Men’s Basketball vs. Michigan
Jan 5, 9pm
IU Assembly Hall, 866-IUSPORTS

First Friday
Jan 6, 5pm
Downtown Bloomington

IU Wrestling vs. Iowa
Jan 6, 7pm
IU University Gym

Winter Farmers’ Market
Every Saturday, 9am
Harmony School Gym

National Ham Radio Kids’ Day & Build Your Own Radio Workshop
Jan 8, 1pm
WonderLab, 812-337-1337

IU Women’s Basketball vs. Northwestern
Jan 8, 2pm
IU Assembly Hall, 866-IUSPORTS

Jacobs School of Music presents Season of Sebastian: Recital VIII
Jan 10, 8pm
IU Auer Concert Hall

Jacobs School of Music presents Roger Rod, Oboe
Jan 11, 8pm
IU Auer Concert Hall

5^th Annual Percussive Dance Extravaganza: Leaping Into New Territory
Jan 12, 7:30pm
Rhino’s All-Ages Club, 812-333-3180

Phoenix
Jan 12-14, 8pm
Ivy Tech John Waldron Arts Center, 812-323-3020

IU Men’s Basketball vs. Minnesota
Jan 12, 8pm
IU Assembly Hall, 866-IUSPORTS

Jacobs School of Music presents Audition Eve
Jan 13, 7pm
IU Ford-Crawford Hall

IU Dance Theater presents Contemporary Voices
Jan 13-14
IU Ruth N. Halls Theater, 812-855-1103

Jacobs School of Music presents Emile, Naoumoff, Piano
Jan 14, 6pm
IU Auer Concert Hall

Eastern Screech Owl Nesting Box Workshop
Jan 15, 2pm
Paynetown SRA at Lake Monroe, 812-837-9546

Jacobs School of Music presents A Celebration of Spirituals
Jan 15, 4pm
IU Auer Concert Hall

Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Celebration of Scientists
Jan 15, 12pm
WonderLab, 812-337-1337

IU Women’s Basketball vs. Purdue
Jan 19, 8pm
IU Assembly Hall, 866-IUSPORTS

IU Wrestling vs. Nebraska
Jan 20, 7pm
IU University Gym

Jacobs School of Music presents David Baker 80^th Birthday Celebration
Jan 21, 8pm
IU Musical Arts Center

Lunar New Year Celebration
Jan 21, 2pm
Monroe County Public Library, 812-349-3100

Jacobs School of Music presents Faculty Chamber Music Recital
Jan 22, 4pm
IU Auer Concert Hall

IU Men’s Basketball vs. Penn State
Jan 22, 12pm
IU Assembly Hall, 866-IUSPORTS

PRIDE Film Festival
Jan 26-28
Buskirk-Chumley Theater, 812-323-3022

IU Women’s Basketball vs. Ohio State
Jan. 26, 8pm
IU Assembly Hall, 866-IUSPORTS

STOMP
Jan. 27-28, 7:30pm
IU Auditorium, 812-855-1103

GLBTAA IU Celebration 2012
Jan. 27-29
Indiana Memorial Union & various places, 812-856-7260

Eagle Watch Weekend 2012
Jan. 27-29
Lake Monroe, various other sites, 812-340-1255

Engineering Light at WonderLab
Jan. 28, 11:30am-3:30pm
WonderLab, 812-337-1337

Jacobs School of Music: Federico Agostini, violin
Jan. 28, 4pm
IU Auer Concert Hall

The Kinsey Institute’s Open House & Art Exhibit “Love & War”
Jan. 28, 11am-2pm
IU Kinsey Institute, 812-855-7686

IU Wrestling vs. Illinois
Jan 29, 2pm
IU University Gym

The Art of Chocolate
Jan. 29, 5:30-7:30pm
IU Art Museum, 812-332-9615

IU Men’s Basketball vs. Iowa
Jan. 29, 6pm
IU Assembly Hall, 866-IUSPORTS

Rocks Tell a Story: The Geology of Monroe Reservoir
Jan. 30, 7pm
Monroe County Public Library, 812-837-9546

Jacobs School of Music presents Janette Fishell & Friends
Jan 31, 8pm
IU Auer Concert Hall

‘Baggy Pants Burlesque’ at Beef & Boards

"Baggy Pants Burlesque" at Beef & Boards. Photo provided by the theatre and used with written permission.

By Patricia Rettig
Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre
http://www.beefandboards.com/

Jack Milo’s Baggy Pants Burlesque opens on Dec. 28, 2011 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre, 9301 Michigan Road, Indianapolis, for just ten performances through Jan. 8, 2012.

This is a fun and flirty new show that takes audiences back to the best of playful Vaudeville entertainment, starring stars Beef & Boards funny men Doug Stark and Jeff Stockberger, along with Milo himself. All tickets are $49 (the $75 New Year’s Eve performance is sold out). Tickets include Chef Odell Ward’s dinner buffet, coffee, tea and lemonade. Parking is free.

While Beef & Boards is giving the production a PG-13 rating, and Milo agrees it’s “definitely not for little kids,” the show harkens back to original burlesque fun.

“Burlesque became an offshoot of Vaudeville, and they decided to go a little more racy with it,” Milo said. “People have expectations of a strip show, and it isn’t that. It’s basically comedy sketches and musical numbers. There’s a lot of double entendres and off-color jokes. It’s all innuendo. We don’t say cuss words; we don’t do any of that.”

Rather, he describes the show as “fun, fast and furious.”

“People should expect to laugh their butts off,” Milo said of his show. “They should expect old-time burlesque.”

For more information, visit http://www.beefandboards.com/, or call 317-872-9664.

“Radio Golf” at Indiana Repertory Theatre, Jan. 10-29

Indiana Repertory Theatre. AroundIndy.com staff photo.

By Kelly Young
On behalf of the Indiana Repertory Theatre
http://www.irtlive.com/

The Indiana Repertory Theatre will ring in the New Year with a powerful, provocative and funny production of August Wilson’s play Radio Golf. In this play, a successful and idealistic entrepreneur aspires to become a city’s first black mayor. But while looking ahead to his and the city’s future, he is forced to reckon with the price of progress and to find balance between ambition and honor of those before him when he decides to redevelop a historic African-American neighborhood.

Radio Golf is the final chapter in August Wilson’s unprecedented 10-play cycle chronicling African-American life in the 20th century. Like all of Wilson’s plays, Radio Golf provides a thoughtful examination of the African-American experience at a certain time in history. Radio Golf is a startling play; it turns hilarious and profane, and provides a sober reflection on the role of African-Americans in modern America. Radio Golf won the 2007 New York Drama Critics Circle Award for Best Play.

The Crew

Directed by | LOU BELLAMY
Scenic Designer | VICKI SMITH
Costume Designer | KAREN PERRY
Lighting Designer | DON DARNUTZER
Sound Designer | TODD MACK REISCHMAN
Dramaturg | RICHARD J. ROBERTS
Stage Manager | NATHAN GARRISON

The Cast

DAVID ALAN ANDERSON – Roosevelt Hicks
JAMES CRAVEN – Harmond Wilks
ABDUL SALAAM EL RAZZAC – Elder Joseph Barlow
AUSTENE VAN – Mame Wilks
TERRY BELLAMY – Sterling Johnson

Show times are scheduled for Jan. 10-29, 2012, and vary by performance date. Opening Night is Jan. 13 at 7:30 pm. For a complete list of show times, see http://www.irtlive.com/shows_and_tickets/shows/radio_golf/, or call 317-635-5252.

Editor’s Acknowledgment: Baise Communications.

Indianapolis Auto Show at the Convention Center now to Jan. 1

Indiana Convention Center. AroundIndy.com staff photo.

By Mary Ellen Phillips
Greater Metropolitan Indianapolis Automobile Trade Association
http://www.adai-inc.org/

The 98th annual edition of the Indianapolis Auto Show is underway and continues through Sunday, Jan. 1, 2012, at the Indiana Convention Center, 100 South Capitol Avenue, in downtown Indianapolis, Indiana.

Presented by the Greater Metropolitan Indianapolis Automobile Trade Association, an organization of 95 franchised new car and truck dealers in the greater Indianapolis area, the show features over 375,000 square feet of exhibit space with vehicles and automotive products on display. New models represent 35 different makes of domestic and import automobiles and trucks, with more than 400 vehicles on display.

Admission is $7 for adults. Children under 12 are free when accompanied by an adult. Admission is free for all US active duty military personnel (must have ID) and all active duty police and fire department personnel (must have ID). Parking is available in the facilities surrounding the Indiana Convention Center.

The 2012 Indianapolis Auto Show is open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. through Friday, Dec. 30, then 11 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. For more information, visit http://www.theindyautoshow.com/, or call 317-266-8455.

‘Art School Rejects’ Exhibit, Jan. 6-27

Art School Rejects Exhibit, Jan. 6-27. Image provided by the venue.

By Philip Campbell
Indy Indie Artist Colony
http://www.indyindieartist.com/

305 works of art (a record number ) were submitted to the annual Herron School of Art student show.  The jurors were particularly generous in rejecting a large number of these quality artworks.

Before any of the rejectees had a chance to pick up their submissions, a pool of seven instructors and 37 students were asked to vote on the rejected works of art.  After tallying the votes, we have accepted 42 artworks to be exhibited at Indy Indie Artist Colony, in an exhibit created by Aaron Booe, from January 6through January 27, 2012.   Expect an event just as exciting as the student show with thoughtfully selected artwork, homemade food, and beverages.

Regular gallery hours are Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, 12-5 pm, or by appointment. The opening reception for this exhibit is scheduled on First Friday, Jan. 6, 2012, 6-10 pm.

For more information, visit http://wwwindyindieartist.com/, or call 317-919-8725.

New Year’s Eve Events in Downtown Indianapolis

New Year's Eve with the Indianapolis Symphony. Photo provided by Indianapolis Downtown, Inc., and used with written permission.

By Brittany Smith
Indianapolis Downtown, Inc.
http://indydt.com/

Ready to party like it’s 2012? Whether it’s with family, friends or both, Downtown offers a wide variety of entertainment options to celebrate the new year. For a complete calendar of events visit www.indydt.com.

Families can celebrate together

Five, four, three, two, one…Happy Noon Year! A fun, family-friendly option is The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis’ Countdown to Noon party from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.  Children and families participate in the excitement of a countdown to the new year in anticipation of the evening’s countdown. The event is free with museum admission. Call 317-334-3322 or visit www.childrensmuseum.org/calendar/index.htm

End the year with a bang at the Indiana State Museum’s Family New Year’s Eve Celebration from 6 – 9 p.m.  Face painting, stilt walkers, dancing and more return as the exciting balloon drop takes place at 8 p.m. $6 members; $11 non-members. Call 232.1637 or visit www.indianamuseum.org/visit/events/eventview.asp?eventid=1073

Escape the winter cold with Indiana’s hockey team, Indiana Ice, as they face off against Youngstown Phantoms at Bankers Life Fieldhouse (6:04 p.m.). Visit www.indianaice.com for more information.

Dance Dance Resolution!

Dance Kaleidoscope and the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra come together for a magical New Year’s Eve in Vienna that promises to be an elegant celebration (see photo above). Opt for a sumptuous pre-concert dinner, win fabulous prize packages in our “Name that Tune” competition and stay for the post-concert countdown featuring more live music, dancing, a cash bar and a complimentary champagne toast. Call 317-639-4300 or visit www.indianapolissymphony.org for tickets.

Join Carlton Lewis III and his band, TLC, as they resurrect the sounds of the late great Sam Cooke at the Madame Walker Theatre Center for New Year’s Eve Rhythm & Soul Revue!  Tickets $25 – $50.  Call 317-236-2099 or visit www.walkertheatre.com.

Swing into the new year at the Fountain Square Theatre! The Kelly Jay Orchestra returns to Indianapolis after eight years along with The Star Devils! Visit www.brownpapertickets.com for tickets or call 800-838-3006.

Warm up your vocal cords for some serious sing-along action at Howl at the Moon! Enjoy the music of the dueling pianos with different admission packages available (“Super Nova,” “Big Shot” and “Get Up, Stand Up”).

Pay a visit to Circle Centre Mall in search of the perfect outfit for Cadillac Ranch and Bartini’s Black and White Ball! To buy tickets, visit www.eventbrite.com/event/2525872954/esearch?srnk=1.

Spend your New Year’s Eve with Toxic Reasons & Creepin’ Charley and Vodka DeMilo at Radio Radio! To purchase tickets, visit http://www.brownpapertickets.com/producer/4225.

Enjoy a night of live entertainment, buffet, party favors and champagne toast at the Rathskeller’s New Year’s Eve Party featuring Zanna Doo! For more information, visit www.rathskeller.com/live-entertainment.

Don’t miss a night complete with live music performances by Picture Yes and a rockin’ countdown at Indy Rockin’ New Year’s Eve presented by Hard Rock Cafe and Live Music Indiana.  For more information, call 636.2550.

Spend the night Downtown this New Year’s Eve!

Kiss 2011 goodbye at one of Downtown’s many New Year’s Eve celebrations! Get ready for the Stella Artois Masquerade Ball at Union Station and stay overnight at the Crowne Plaza Hotel.  The party includes live entertainment by My Yellow Rickshaw, costume contest, midnight balloon drop and more.  Standard ticket $49; VIP Lounge $99. Hotel packages are also available. Call 631.2221 for more information.

Homewood Suites is hosting a Midnight Kiss Masquerade Ball starting at 9 p.m. with DJ Noah the Arkitech, open bar, balloon drop, champagne toast, after-party at Club Blu and more. Couples suite packages are available for $299, also including a luxury suite and breakfast buffet Jan. 1. Call 31-955-8585 or visit www.homewoodsuites1.hilton.com/en_US/hw/hotel/INDHWHW-Homewood-Suites-by-Hilton-Indianapolis-Downtown-Indiana/index.do

Kick off 2012 at Hyatt Regency New Year’s Eve Rock ‘N’ Roll Ball. This action-packed night of entertainment and celebration includes musical performances by The Flying Toasters, Don Stuck Band, Duke Tumatoe, Dave & Rae Band, Virgin Millionares and DJ Brian Jackson, a fantasy casino “player’s lounge” and a massive midnight balloon drop in the center of the hotel’s magnificent 21-story atrium lobby.  Tickets start at $39; room and party $225.  For more information call 800-233-1234 or log onto www.indianapolis.hyatt.com.

Celebrate the new year at Downtown’s newest hotel, JW Marriott Indianapolis. The JW Marriott New Year’s Eve package includes deluxe overnight accommodations, a bottle of champagne, four-course dinner for two at Osteria Pronto and breakfast buffet. Call 888-236-2427 or visit www.jwindy.com for more details.

Dinner by day, party by night.

Many Downtown restaurants will be open on New Year’s Eve for a pre-party dinner or as the celebration.  It is highly recommended to call and make a reservation to any restaurant for this busy night.

Salsa Into the new year with Adobo Grill’s New Year’s Eve Dinner and Party.  Enjoy a four-course menu with party favors, margaritas, beer, wine, well drinks and a midnight tequila toast for $89.99 beginning at 9 p.m.  For those interested in just dancing and the bar package with light appetizers, the price is $60 advance/$80 at door at 10 p.m.  Call317- 822-9990 or visit www.adobogrill.com/indianapolis/index.aspx

In big city fashion, Chef Joseph’s at The Connoisseur Room will ring in the new year with style and elegance. Enjoy a six-course menu complete with bubbly and wine pairing sure to satisfy your palate. The evening includes live cabaret entertainment to ease you into 2012, party favors and a midnight toast. For reservations, call 317-600-3577 or visit www.chefjosephs.com.

Join the Skyline Club for New Year’s Eve dinner.  From 5 – 9 p.m. enjoy a five-course dinner.  $69 (non-members) includes dinner and live piano music with special guest Steve Hackman.  Call 317-263-5000.

http://members.clubcorp.com/club/scripts/calendar/view_club_calendaritem.asp?CID=846730&GRP=10&NS=PCH&MFCODE=SKYID&src=w

Sip 2011 away at Tastings – A Wine Experience! Tastings offers more than 15 different types of champagne and sparkling wine by the bottle. Celebrate the new year with a glass of bubbly and an extensive small plate and tapas style menu. For more information, visit  http://www.awineexperience.com/ .

Treat yourself to a delicious Italian meal prepared by Chef Rino Baglio at Osteria Pronto in the JW Marriott Indianapolis. For more information visit www.jwindy.com or call 317-860-5777.

Don’t forget to bring the bubbly!

Stop by Mass Ave Wine Shoppe before you head to the party.  Open from 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. New Year’s Eve.  Plan ahead and get your growler filled at one of Downtown’s award-winning breweries, including Sun King Brewery and Flat 12 Bierworks. Get warmed up for the new year at New Day Meadery’s Warm-up Party! Enjoy a glass or two of their signature meads while nibbling on complimentary appetizers. For liquor, wine and beer options, pay a visit to Crown Liquors and Kahn’s Fine Wines and Spirits.

Remember – always pick a designated driver for the occasion. If need be, taxis are available to take you home safely throughout the night. Utilize them and help maintain a safe and fun atmosphere Downtown. Here is a short list of taxi numbers:

Indy Airport Taxi
317-381-1111
Checker Cab
317-247-6233
Compass Rose Cab
317-590-6699

For a complete taxi service operator list visit: http://www.indy.gov/eGov/City/DCE/Licenses/BusinessLicensing/Documents/Taxi%20Companies.  As always, use good judgment and have a Happy New Year!

“Indy Downtown” app now available!

Downtown Indianapolis visitors, residents and employees rejoice!  A new app is available to serve as a one-stop-shop for all there is to do and see Downtown. Plan your New Year’s Eve Downtown with the FREE “Indy Downtown” app, the official guide to Downtown…on the go.

Visit indydt.com for more information including Downtown parking and maps, as well as a complete calendar of Downtown Indianapolis events.

Editor’s Acknowledgment: I’d like to personally thank Tamara Zahn and the entire staff at Indianapolis Downtown, Inc. for their incredible and wonderful support during 2011. I so appreciate everything you do!

Things to do in Indianapolis, Dec. 26, 2011 to Jan. 1, 2012

Conseco Fieldhouse became Bankers Life Fieldhouse on Dec. 22, 2011. AroundIndy.com staff photo, (c) 2011, all rights reserved.

Things to do in Indianapolis
Dec. 26, 2011 to Jan. 1, 2012

• 98th Annual Indianapolis Auto Show at the Convention Center
• Stella Artois New Year’s Eve Masquerade Ball at Union Station
• ChaCha New Year’s Eve 2012 at the Indiana State Museum
• Indiana Pacers NBA Basketball at Bankers Life Fieldhouse
• College Men’s Basketball at Butler University
• Indiana Ice USHL Ice Hockey at Bankers Life Fieldhouse
• ‘Baggy Pants Burlesque’ at Beef and Boards Dinner Theatre
• Jim Brickman in Concert at the Old National Centre
• New Year’s Eve Celebration with the Indianapolis Symphony
• 5th Annual Shipshewana Ice Festival in LaGrange County

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Happy Holidays from AroundIndy.com!