Yellowknife (Dec 24/04) - Every year you swear you'll make your New Year's plans earlier than, say, Dec. 31.

Well this year there are a number of options for those who don't wait until the last minute. In addition to myriad informal get-togethers on New Year's Eve, a couple of restaurants in town are offering deluxe party packages.

Northern workers will ring in the new year with a big party at the Elks' Hall on Dec. 31. Pam Crawford and the Band will provide live music for dancing. There'll also be appetizers, door prizes and the requisite bubbly when the clock strikes 12.

The Monkey Tree Pub is throwing a New Year's "Extravaganza" to mark the end of 2004. It will be catered by Le Frolic, with dancing music provided by Arctic Woolyboo, and there'll be sparkling wine when the year ends.

Old Town Landing has a special six course dinner package offer for New Year's, followed by dancing and, of course, champagne at midnight.

If you live closer to new town, you might prefer Coyote's. They've got a four course New Year's Eve dinner planned, with four dishes to choose from for each course, including dessert. Oh yes, and complimentary bubbly.

Of course, making reservations early would be smart.