Ring in 2012 at These Local Events

Ah, New Year's Eve. Depending on your age, experience and energy, it's a night to be loved or loathed. 

Nailing down plans can be tough — reservations fill up fast, noisy amateurs pack the local haunts and transportation is tricky. 

Not to worry. We've compiled a list of some of the area's best bets. 

Bring the family for a magic show performed by Dennis DeBondt. 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. in the Second Floor Veteran's Room of the Oak Park Public Library Main Branch, 834 Lake St. (708) 452-3429 for more details

: The children's museum is throwing a family-friendly party featuring New Year's Eve countdowns with countries across the world, sparkling cider, guided crafts, face painting, music and more. $5 general admission ticket; free to museum members. Noon to 5 p.m.  6445 North Avenue. Call (708) 383-4815 for more details.

Inner Wisdom Yoga: The yoga studio is hosting a half-day retreat featuring meditation, Pranayama and Asana practice, chanting, healthy snacks and more for "a great way to open to a new year as we contemplate our highest intention." $35; 9 a.m.-Noon. 805 South Blvd. Call (708) 712-4787 for more information.

: The stylish Lake Street club is throwing a "Party in the House Until the World Ends" featuring DJ Pablo Alejandro spinning house music all night. $15 cover; $45 hosted bar; Begins at 8 p.m. 728 Lake St. More info here. 

Live music by Equinox in the Dragon House downstairs lounge begins at 8 p.m. 1107 Lake St. (708) 660-8899

 Executive Chef Leonard Hollander is preparing a special selection of prixe fixe menus for two seatings throughout the night. The first seating, a five course meal ($75), begins at 5:30 p.m. The second seating, a seven-course dining spectacular ($95), begins at 9 p.m. Both seatings will take place against the backdrop of a performance from Matt Ferguson and his Dixe Trio. 100 S. Marion St. RSVP at (708) 725-7200 or at the MSCM website.

: A limited, a la carte menu will be available from 4-8 p.m. and the restaurant is offering a $45 celebration package option that begins at 9:30 p.m. and includes drinks, a midnight champagne toast and party favors. (And don't forget Maya's Third Annual New Year's Day Pajama Party Brunch the next morning.) Celebration package excludes tax and tip. 144 S. Oak Park Ave. Call (708-358-9500) to RSVP.

FitzGerald's: Ring it in? Why not rock it in? The legendary Berwyn venue is throwing a New Year's Eve Rock 'n' Roll Bash featuring venerable rockers The Freddy Jones Band. They'll play two sets. Tickets include complimentary coat check, midnight champagne toast at midnight, party favors, SideBar and "heated tent for lounging, drinking and music breaks." 6615 Roosevelt Road. $45 advance; $50 at the door. Tickets here. 

Whatever you decide to do, please do it responsibly and don't drink and drive. Locally, taxis can be reserved with Red Cab or Blue Cab.