Where to Celebrate New Year's in Redmond

Looking to get out of the house to celebrate 2011 and welcome a new year? Several bars and restaurants around town will be offering drink specials and live music to usher in 2012 on Saturday night. Here is a quick round-up:

• in Redmond Town Center is offering special couples packages that include premium-plus movie seats, an appetizer bar, entree platter, dessert bar, two drinks and a complimentary champagne toast at midnight. The packages cost $187 for two people; less-expensive ticket packages are also available. Click here for full pricing or to purchase tickets.

• Desert Fire, also located in Redmond Town Center, is hosting a party from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. that includes a DJ and champagne toast at midnight. Advance tickets are $20; a $40 VIP package also includes an appetizer buffet, mimosa fountain and gift bag. More information is available on Desert Fire's Facebook page.

• The party at will include a DJ starting at 9 p.m., a midnight champagne toast and free local transportation. Call 425-558-9800 to reserve a table.

• The will groove to the sounds of the Jet City Band and Lucky Lindy from 9 p.m. to midnight.

Want other options? Fork Dork Chris Nishiwaki has compiled a on Saturday evening. Or, for Seattle ideas, check out this roundup in The Seattle Times.

More of a New Year's Day kind of person? Two Redmond events can help you welcome 2012 by supporting a good cause. The begins at 10 a.m. on the Sammamish River Trail and will benefit Hopelink, while the to benefit Special Olympics starts at 10:30 a.m. at Idylwood Beach Park.