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Community Corner

Get Out: New Year's Eve

No matter your age, there's a fun way for you to ring in the New Year with family and friends this weekend. Read on to see Patch's top picks of New Year's Eve celebrations in the area.

1. First Night

What:This annual event sponsored by Highmark and run by the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust is a family-friendly celebration that has something for everyone. From crafts to live music and even a fireworks celebration, First Night is a great way to please the whole family.

Where/when: Downtown Pittsburgh in the Cultural District, New Year's Eve, 6 p.m. until midnight (or later)

Admission: Buttons that admit you to all activities and events are $8/person in advance or $10 on the night of the event. Visit First Night's website for more information.

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2. New Year's Eve Family Celebration

What: A celebration for the whole family during the day at Phipps Conservatory. Activities, along with a viewing of the beautiful winter flower show, let you ring in the new year in a warm, inviting atmosphere. Countdown to the new year starts early (8:45 p.m.), which is perfect if you have young children.

When/where: Phipps Conservatory, New Year's Eve, 6 p.m.-9 p.m.

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Admission: Free with price of admission, $12 for adults, $9 for children 2-18, and is free for children under 2. Call 412-622-6914 or visit Phipps Conservatory's website for more information.

3. 12 Before 12

What: Countdown to 2012 with your kids at the Sewickley Public Library with crafts, games, stories and songs. The countdown takes place during the day, leaving you time to party later on.

When/where: Sewickley Public Library, New Year's Eve, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Admission: Free. Please register at the library's website or call the children's department at 412-741-0937 to register.

4. Noon Year's Eve Celebration

What: Another option for families with small children, the Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium will host a noontime New Year's celebration on New Year's Eve. Dance to live music and watch a ball drop at noon!

When/where: Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium, New Year's Eve, 11:00 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Admission: Free with price of admission, adults $10, children $9. Call 412-665-3640 or visit the zoo's website for more information.

5. Mr. Small's New Year's Eve Celebration

What: For those of you 21 and over who are looking for a real party, Mr. Small's Theatre will celebrate its tenth anniversary with a New Year's Eve celebration. The venue is a Catholic church turned funhouse and will feature DJs, various performers and, of course, cocktails and champagne.

When/Where: Mr. Small's Theatre in Millvale, New Year's Eve, beginning at 6 p.m.

Admission: General admission is $8 in advance or $10 at the door. If you're looking to splurge, a limited number of VIP tickets are available for $100. VIP tickets include an open bar, appetizers and commemorative bottle of anniversary champagne. Call 412-821-4447 for more details.

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