Haven't Made NYE Plans? Here's Some Options Around Toms River

If you waited until now to make New Year's Eve plans, don't worry. It's not 2012 yet...there's still time.

Here are some options whether you're looking to ring it in at a bar, a nightclub, on the dance floor, with fireworks or with a big feast.

• The (1250 Hooper Ave, Toms River) is having a NYE pre-fixe menu and happy hour specials from 4p.m. to close. They will have a free shuttle running to Tiffany’s and Jack & Bill’s. Tiffany’s will be having an open bar from 9 p.m. to midnight and a champagne toast.

• New Year’s Eve Dinner at Hemingway’s: Seaside Height’s premiere dining and nightlife destination is having a special dinner before the party begins. For dinner on New Years Eve they are offering a special four course dinner menu (served a la carte at the bar). Two seatings are available with reservations: 6 p.m. or earlier for $44.95 or 8:30 p.m. or later for $59.95. This includes admission to the bar, party favors and a champagne toast. Guests of the later seating may add a 2 hour open bar for an additonal $15 per guest. Reservations for both seatings must call 732-830-1255 ext. 10 for dinner reservations.

• First Night In Ocean County at Seaside Heights is a great way for the entire family to celebrate New Year’s Eve. All attendees are required to purchase bracelets that entitle them to all entertainment, free carousel rides and entries into a drawing for an adult gift basket and a children's gift basket both valued at over $250. The winning passport will be drawn at 5 p.m. and the winner does not have to be present in order to win. After the drawing, the night will come to an end with a spectacular fireworks display at 5 p.m., which can be viewed from everywhere on the Boardwalk. Bracelets can be purchased for $5  at each participating arcade along the Boardwalk and the in the Ocean County Mall.

• Spicy Cantina on the Seaside Heights boardwalk is hosting 2 levels of fun with music by Bullzeye downstairs and an upstairs dance party. There is an open bar from 8 to 11p.m., a buffet, champagne toast and even a breakfast buffet at 4a.m.! They will also have a special dinner menu including a “make your own” nacho & taco station, pasta station, soups, chafing dishes and dessert. Tickets are $30 in advance. 

• Beachcomber (also on the Seaside Heights boardwalk) New Year's Eve Party includes live entertainment by Temporary Grace, an open bar from 8 p.m. to midnight, cold and hot buffet, party favors, champagne toast at midnight and breakfast at 4 a.m. Tickets are $35.00 in advance. Visit www.beachcomberbar.com for tickets. 

• Sawmill in Seaside Park will have music by DJ Matrix upstairs and music by DJ Durty Kurty downstairs. There will be a four hour open bar from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., hors d' ouevres, champagne toast and party favors. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased at the bar or at www.sawmillcafe.com

• Martell’s Tiki Bar in Point Pleasant New Year’s Party: A boardwalk party in the Winter? Martell’s is a great spot to escape the cold with their island flare and wild parties. Their NYE party will include music by The Mike Dalton Band (including a full horn section), party favors, free giveaways, and free champagne toast. Hor d’ oeuvres such as clams casino, buffalo wings and Swedish meatballs will be served, along with a pre-selected list of entrees. Tickets are $25 advance, $30 at the door. Tickets can be purchased at www.tikibar.com.

• Jenk’s New Year’s Eve Party: A club known for pulling out all the stops, Jenk’s knows how to throw a good party. Their NYE celebration will have music by The Benjamins and DJ Unique, a buffet-style dinner, champagne toast and open bar from 8 to 10 p.m. The party runs until the morning hours.