Boston's Best Guide To New Year's Eve 2015

New Year's Eve extravaganzas are happening all night long, in just about every suburb of Boston. Balls and galas within the city vary from the outrageous to the cultured event of full tuxedos, tails and top hats. Where to go and what to do depends greatly on what you enjoy and how you wish to end the year 2015. Or shall we say bring in the year 2016? Be prepared to fully enjoy the festivities after checking this simple to-do list.

Plan Ahead Planning ahead isn't as simple as it sounds. Hardly when thinking of joining the largest party in the world — New Year's Eve. But, this is sincerely the most important tip. If alcohol is on the agenda, have a designated driver or be prepared to call an Uber or Lyft. If using the free public transportation, make sure you are aware of the last train to pull into the station. If parking is an issue, be ready with passes and tickets purchased ahead of time. Know where the taxi stands are. If you are planning to join an event in a different neighborhood, cabs are almost always handy, knowing where they will be waiting is most helpful.

Stay Local

Staying local is supporting local neighborhood restaurants, bands and city events. Local also means less travel, easier access to places that are already known and an opportunity to find the hidden jewels of the evening. If venturing into town is on the agenda, keep it simple and, as silly as it may sound, keep safe. It is quite alright to have a buddy system. Keep aware of your emergency exits no matter where you may be. And remember to keep warm.

Related:  Boston's Best 2015 New Year's Eve Parties

New Year's Eve Parties

Aeronaut Brewery Company of Somerville is hosting one of the best kept secret New Year's Eve bashes north of Boston. Everyone in the local band scene will wish they had attended. The winners of this year's Massachusetts final "Last Band Standing," The Dirty Dottys, will be joined by The Erlenmeyers and Royal Bloodlines. Guests will be rocking out this year and rolling in the new with craft beer specials, close friends, new acquaintances and everything in between. Join the fun with early bird tickets, one of the perks of planning ahead of time.

Free Services

As with every New Year's Eve in Boston, transportation is free. Bus lines and trains begin at 8 p.m. and go until the last train leaves the station. If you don't have to drive, the MBTA is the way to go this night. The system will be running on a "modified weekday schedule," and additional trains will be added during rush hour service beginning at 2 p.m. If driving is a must, download your free apps like Uber, Hailo and Pingup for free taxi services. Be sure to notice traffic changes before leaving the house behind; certain sections of the city will be closed to through way traffic to allow for pedestrians on the most busiest night of the year.

Related: Guide To A Low Key New Year's Eve