The blow-out parties
04
6545 Durocher #400 (corner of Beaubien)
DJ T'cha's NYE party is always a favourite for lovers of hot and hoppin' lofty parties. This ninth annual throwdown features DJ Bliss and others TBA, and sparkling something-or-other at midnight. The fun starts at 10 p.m. and tickets cost a mere $15.
2K4
Location TBA,
Info: 304-8967, www.2k4.ca
The Kops Crew, Level 4 Productions and Kirk 6 have joined forces this year to present a live, loud, ravin' hip hop party and art extravaganza. DJs include Stabba, Mayday, Accomplice, Philgood, Freebass, Kilobyte, Specter, Who-see, Abra, X-Wam, Great White Hype and Mister Mostest, along with a live set by Rhythm Mercenaries. For your eyes, VJ Mindlab will work the video while the Kops create murals and installations, and for your wallet, tickets cost a scant $20, $15 ahead of time! Call or click for advance ticket and location info. One love, two floors.
Apocalypse 2004
Centre Pierre-Charbonneau, 3000 Viau, (450) 625-7000,
www.rayjunior.com
Admission: 790-1245, www.admission.com
Ray Junior Productions like their year-end parties large, and this year's blowout runs from 9 p.m. to noon to the tune of DJs Spootnick, Wizz, Mad, Tao Nhan, Zed Aksis, Night Vision, Iznogood, G. O'Brien (who's launching his disc, A History in the Mix) and acclaimed Hamburg turntable hound Humate. Tickets cost $45 in advance and $65 at the door.
Bal des Boys Weekend
Théâtre sans fil, 411 Letourneux (corner Notre Dame E.),
875-7026, www.bbcm.org
Admission: 790-1245, www.admission.com
The Bad Boys Club of Montreal celebrates in style, with a black & white, art deco and/or '20s-style dress code and a whole lotta hot house in the old Caserne Letourneux fire station, converted for this special occasion into the "Bal des Boys Mansion." DJs Mark Anthony, Neill MacLeod, Serge Duchesne and the BBCM dancers will keep this ninth annual Bal rolling from 9 p.m. to 8 a.m. Expect magical décor and special FX, sparkling wine with the midnight countdown and surprises a-plenty. Tickets cost $50–$125, so check the Web sites for the info. You'll also want to hit the computer for details about BBCM's follow-up parties, happening Thursday, January 1 through Sunday, January 4 at four different locations in the Village, because Bad Boys start the year right.
Barhop
Various locations,
Info: 843-3388, www.montrealparty.com
Admission: 790-1245, www.admission.com
Get the party started on Tuesday, December 30 at 10 p.m., when "Montreal's largest club event since 1987" starts its engine. With the purchase of a Coors Light Barhop bracelet ($15), you'll be shuttle-bussed to and from 24 clubs, where you'll party with 15,000 people and 40 DJs spinning dance, techno, R&B and more. Organizers promise "nonstop adrenaline-pumping action" for this wild road trip, an 18+ affair where proper attire is required. Call 924-7878 or visit www.keennestproductions.com for info on two-day package tickets.
Black Tie Affair 2003
Musée d'art contemporain, 185 Ste-Catherine W.
Info: 499-1021,
Admission: 790-1245, www.admission.com
Lovers of R&B, hip hop and classic house are invited to celebrate in style with DJs Majess, Butcher T, Fabian Ashe, LDG, Tuff and MC Flight. Guests are encouraged to dress to impress, and to be over 25, organizers say, though that's just a preference. The swanky museum's pair of party rooms open their doors at 10 p.m., and tickets cost $50.
Blast 2004
Groove Society, 1288 Amherst,
Info: 845-5045,
www.montrealparty.com
Admission: 790-1245, www.admission.com
Count down to 2004 with the folks in Times Square on Groove's giant screens, bask in the balloon drop when the clock strikes 12 and taste R&B and hip hop flavours with three DJs in three rooms. The party starts at 8 p.m. and it's open bar from 10 p.m. to 3 a.m., so you're bound to feel that Blast. The price at the door is a surprise, and probably not a pleasant one, so buy advance tickets for $75, at the venue or through Admission.
Break 2004
Aria, 1280 St-Denis, 987-6712
Aria's got a hot ($60) ticket this New Year's Eve, with house, hip hop and R&B bigwigs Deep Dish, Sharam, Marco G, XL, Nic B, Guru, Gangstarr, Bless, Majess, Kwite Sane, Crowd and Mike Mission spinning the night into the morning.
Celebration 2004
Bell Centre, 1260 de la Gauchetière W.,
Admission: 790-1245, www.admission.com
www.514productions.com
"Rewind to the future" with super sounds of the '80s, '90s and '00s at this year's Celebration. Electro mainman Felix Da 
Housecat is joined by Philgood in the '80s area, Roy Davis Junior and Eddy Jasmin handle old-school, house and garage in the '90s room and DJ Rap, Miche & Sultan and Joubin represent the present with modern techno, breaks & beats and progressive house. The 18+ event runs from 9 p.m. to noon and costs $80. Celebrate good times.
Countdown 2004
Le Medley, 1170 St-Denis, 842-6557
DJ Flex and MC Amadeus pump up the soundtrack at this mega event, where drinks cost $1.50 from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. and the booze flows freely from 10 p.m. to 3 a.m. With all that and the Times Square countdown on giant screens, a huge balloon drop and party favours, why not pay $75? Get those advance tickets at the venue.
Dynasty 2004
Holiday Inn Select, 99 Viger
www.dynastypromotions.com
Admission: 790-1245, www.admission.com
Break in 2004 in this luxurious Chinatown ballroom and lounge with R&B, hip hop and house DJs Donald Lauture, Hill, Flip and Short. Expect exquisite hors d'oeuvres, champagne and Times Square via satellite for the countdown. Get yer $60 advance tickets before the jump on December 26.
Elevation 2004
Location TBA
Admission: 790-1245, www.admission.com
Two rooms, four VJs and 18 DJs carry on the Elevation tradition at this year's top secret locale, to be decked with visuals by Frame on four big screens and 20 TVs. DJs include Aeon (aka Nuclear Ramjet), Metalogic, Boshkeritter, Mimi and Tenzin in the Main/Psy-tech room (where France's 3.Turn will play live), and Mini, Galasky, Axionfigga and the Nitrous in the D&B/Breakbeat/Electro room. Tickets cost $45 in advance (at musik-hall.com, Megohm, Aritmétik, Moto Piston or DNA, or through Admission) and a mysterious "more" at the door.
Exit NYE Party
3553 St-Laurent, 285-2223
Admission: 790-1245, www.admission.com
With De La Soul's DJ Maseo on the first floor and Iam's DJ Majestic on two, open bar 'til midnight and an enormous balloon drop and champagne to ring in 2004, you've got ample reason to enter the Exit this NYE. That'll be $55–$65.
Fluid
Club Soda, 1225 St-Laurent, 286-1010
Info: 743-5843, www.fluid2004.com
This fifth annual event promises a "total party experience," where your $95 advance ticket covers hors d'oeuvres, coat check, tips and the deluxe open bar (9 p.m. to 3 a.m.). Get pickled to the sound of hip hop, R&B, house and old-school and drink in additional entertainment with go-go dancers, bongo players, circus performers, masseuses and more. Call or check the site for VIP info.
Gravity
30 Ste-Catherine St. W.
After toasting the New Year, visit Montreal's newest afterhours spot, featuring DJs Angel Moraes, NYC's Jose Vinales and Chicago's Dana Divine from 2 a.m. into the late morning hours, for $47.
Joy 2004
Complexe Millennium,
7500 Viau, 721-4949,
Admission: 790-1245, www.admission.com
Exorcise your inner Scrooge and start the new year with Joy, a mega bash running from 10 p.m. to 1 p.m. with gratis alcohol from 9 p.m. to 11 p.m. House, hip hop and R&B DJs rock the Millennium room, MP3 Afterhours room and Urban Lounge, along with live performers, dancers, tam-tams and a violinist. Tickets cost $45, or $20 after 4 a.m.
Mega New Year's Eve Party
Metropolis, 159 Ste-Catherine E.
Admission: 790-1245, www.admission.com
This palatial hall opens its doors at 9 p.m., offers free booze 'til 11 p.m. and keeps the bodies rockin' with DJ Shake, dance music chief MC Mario and a surprise guest DJ. This mega-party boasts two rooms, an R&B lounge, party favours, 250,000 watts of lighting, 30,000 watts of sound, NYC's countdown live on a giant screen, an enormous balloon drop and "North America's most impressive laser show." Tickets cost $69 in advance, and expect inflation at the door.
Newtown New Year's Eve Party
1476 Crescent, 284-6555
Patrons at Jacques Villeneuve's joint have two choices this New Year's Eve: the bar is open from 9 p.m. to 3 a.m. in the club/lounge, where DJ Pascal Mantovani will set the mood and party people will ring in 2004 with a live countdown from Times Square for $75 in advance and $85 at the door. The peckish can also enjoy NYC's countdown in the restaurant, where the table d'hôte rolls out at 8 p.m. The five-course meal plus midnight champagne costs $110 (+taxes and services), and an additional $50 gets you access to the club/lounge and open bar 'til 3 a.m.
Neon Love
SAT, 1195 St-Laurent, 844-2033, www.iloveneon.ca
Admission: 790-1245, www.admission.com
If you love neon, you'll love SAT's big old electro blowout this year, featuring Big Apple DJs Nite Dog, Unknown and Morgan Geist with Montreal's Jordan Dare in the main room, homegrown electro stars Frigid, LX Statik and Tök in the Frigid room and eye candy by le Couple. Lots of local boutiques are stocking the $20 advance tickets, and you'll pay $25 at the door, which opens at 9 p.m.
Party d'noël 2: The Revenge of Satan Claus
Location TBA, 440-5143, http://partydnoel.tripod.com
IMX Records presents "hardcore, techno méchant" this holiday season, via DJs Iznogood, Belladonnakillz, Thor, Cybervamp, Dr. Evil, Atomic Children and more. Get your idle hands on $20 advance tickets at Sound Central and Megohm or you'll face a devilish surprise at the door, 18+.
Redlite (Laval)
1755 de Lierre, (450) 967-3057, www.red-lite.net
Countdown 2004 promises a house and hip hop extravaganza, with DJs Fil-E-Blunt, Mark Anthony, Stéphan Grondin, Scott Free and Mr. Tribe rocking the house and DJs Storm, Puppa Sacha, Short Cut, Ody Roc, Devious and Square bringing hip hop from 9 p.m. to noon. Tickets cost $30 in advance and $50 night of.
Ultimate Old School Party
Holiday Inn, 420 Sherbrooke W., Dec. 26,
Info: 499-1021,
Admission: 790-1245, www.admission.com
This semi-formal, fifth annual Boxing Day celebration features Majess, Professor and legendary L.A. DJ Ronnie Luv, bringing old-school R&B, rap, reggae, disco and house. Your host Almighty Flight will throw the doors open at 10 p.m. on Friday, December 26, tickets cost $30, and young 'uns take note that the event is 25+.
Wings of Ambriel II
Location TBA, Dec. 25,
http://mindtrab.djtrab.com/prod.htm
You may have lost out on the free medallion that came with pre-Halloween tickets, but the $15 advance price still stands and your guardian angel Ambriel will protect you. Revel in heaven-and-earth drama at this high-concept megaparty, featuring two rooms (Evolution and Wisdom), over 20 trance, techno and electro DJs, a live performance by Ulrich Van Bell, thematic deco by Nota Mindtrap's Sir Enigma and, of course, many surprises. DJs include Iznogood, Baby Dino, Wizz, G. O'Brien and Mini along with many a medieval-sounding table jockey. Ring in the new year and an angel gets its wings.
Bar and club bashes
737
1 Place Ville-Marie, PH2, 397-0737,
Admission: 790-1245, www.admission.com
Take in the best view in town at this swank resto-lounge, where you'll get VIP treatment from 8 to 10 p.m. and the sweet sounds of DJs Damage and Joe Slim all night. Tickets cost $55–$65 through Admission, or www.keennestproductions.com 924-7878.
980
980 Rachel, 596-3981
The party reigns with DJ Pascal Léveillé from 9 p.m. to 3 a.m. at 980. It'll cost ya $35 in advance, $40 at the door and $20 after 1 a.m.
Alessa (Laval)
3535 Autoroute 440 W., (450) 682-2283, www.alessa.ca
This new nightspot is using NYE to launch itself large, with gratis cocktails, champagne at midnight and DJ Modesty Blaise, all for $45.
Angel's
3604 St-Laurent, 282-9944
Take in the hip hop and R&B at Angel's, with the Upstep Crew DJs downstairs and the Tripletek Crew's DJs and MCs on top. Doors open at 9 p.m. and the bar's open 'til midnight. Advance tickets cost $35.
Au Diable Vert
4557 St-Denis, 849-5888
Everything's $2.50 from 9 p.m. to 3 a.m. at the green devil's lair, where Cool FM 98.5 will broadcast live as DJ Yves Ning handles the music. Advance tickets cost $25 and you'll pay $35 at the door.
Balattou
4372 St-Laurent, 845-5447
Get a taste of the tropics at Balattou, offering a free drink, champagne at midnight, an African buffet and equally hot African, Caribbean and Latin American music. The party starts at 9 p.m. and costs $20 in advance and $25 at the door.
B'Bops Lounge
3603 St-Laurent, 282-3332
Let DJs Image, J-Fro and Jung soundtrack your soirée with a fine mix of R&B, hip hop and house. The $50 cover (more at the door) includes free drinks from 9 to 11 p.m., a buffet, champagne at midnight and party favours. Call the venue about special group rates.
Belmont
4483 St-Laurent, 845-8443
DJs Lafleur and Kaméléon set the scene for this $40 bar bash, where booze is free from 9 p.m. to midnight.
Bifteck
3702 St-Laurent, 844-6211
You know where it's at when you're at Bifteck, kicking out the jams this NYE with, the kindly barmaid says, "A buffet, balloons, cheap booze, good times, same old rock 'n' roll."
Bily Kun
The popular Mont-Royal pub goes discothèque this year, with all its resident DJs spinning from 9 p.m. on. There's midnight bubbly in that $10 cover.
Blizzarts
3956A St-Laurent, 843-4860
DJ Bliss and Steady-B bring the noise at this NYE bash, hosted by Murad and the folks at Kidnapper Films. The party starts at 9 p.m. and $12 gets you in and gets a free drink in you.
Blu Nightclub
1426 Stanley, 288-5258
The 2,000-capacity Blu Complex stacks urban, Top 40 and old-school sounds on its three floors from 7 p.m. on. Feast on hors d'oeuvres all night, an open bar from 9 p.m. to 10 p.m. and a champagne toast at midnight, expect party favours, the NYC countdown on giant screens and a balloon drop. Tickets cost $40 before Xmas and $50 after, and include entry to the January 1 after-party.
Blüroom
2080 de la Montagne, 849-3888
DJ Alex Cruz spins a house set tinted with hip hop and electro at this free celebration, where there's a glass of champagne and free swag for all.
Cabaret
Music Hall
2111 St-Laurent, 845-2014
Admission: 790-1245, www.admission.com
Party like it's 1969 with the NYE edition of C'est Extra, the famed "French jazzy swing" soirée with MC Champagne and Mademoiselle Julie. Evening wear is suggested for this dance party, which kicks off at 8 p.m. and costs $30 in advance (at the venue or Admission) and $40 at the door.
Café Campus
57 Prince-Arthur E., 844-1010
Campus's resident DJs will dirty their hands for le Diable au Corps, a demonic dance party to fête 2004. The fun starts early, at 7:30 p.m., and entry is set at $15.
Cathedral and Lucifer
3781 St-Laurent/ 3785 St-Laurent, 985-6667/ 842-4721
The Main's most sacrilegious brother clubs unite for a two-floor, three-room, three-DJ dance-off. DJ Pag spins house, '80s and R&B, George B. delivers R&B and hip hop and Pako will play your requests. The doors and the bar are open from 10 p.m. to 3 a.m. and spring break trips will be awarded to a lucky few. Tickets cost $35 in advance and $45 door-side.
Cheers
1260 Mackay, 932-3138
DJ Shamrock rocks the party at Cheers, where the bar's open from 10 p.m. 'til 1 a.m. Act fast 'cause tickets are going for $65 before December 24, $85 after.
Clyde's (Pointe-Claire)
286 Lakeshore, 630-8118
West Islanders take note that Clyde's $5 cover includes a midnight buffet and the mixed sounds of DJ Matt from 9 p.m. to closing.
Dôme
32 Ste-Catherine E., 875-5757
"The first club to sell out every year" promises a thunderous, 25,000-watt sound system pumping R&B, hip hop, house and dance music, a one-of-a-kind light show, 60 giant TV screens, the Times Square countdown, a balloon drop, party favours, surprises and gifts and 25 bartenders on the club's two floors serving from the open bar (8 p.m. to 10 p.m.), free champagne at midnight and regular bevvies all night long. The Dôme's got so much going they have to start the party at 6 p.m. and charge $69.99 in advance.
Edgar Hypertaverne
1562 Mont-Royal E., 521-4661
Party with "Swinging Edgar" and DJ Eric Trudel this NYE, in a blizzard of confetti, streamers and champagne bubbles. This party rocks from 9 p.m. to 3 a.m., but your $15/$20 cover charge includes admission to Club 980 after 1 a.m. Call the bar for advance ticket info.
Electric Avenue
1469 Crescent, 285-8885
Rock down to this downtown venue where the '80s are alive, courtesy of DJ Loopy Andy, spinning from 8 p.m. to 3 a.m. Expect Times Square on screens, party favours and midnight bubbly, all for $25 in advance, $50 at the door. Space is limited, so reserve by phone at 282-8387.
Envy
3551 St-Laurent, 485-0957
DJ Donald Lauture and live conga and saxophone players will soundtrack this celebration, where booze is free from 8 to 10 p.m. and champagne is up for grabs at midnight. Envy also promises spectacular décor, a buffet, prizes, party favours, the Times Square countdown and a balloon drop, so plan your party for $65 in advance.
Foufounes Électriques
87 Ste-Catherine E., 844-5539
It's "Retro vers le futur" at this classic alternative pit, packing in six DJs, five vibes, special FX, champagne, door prizes and Friday Formula 1 drink specials, all for $15.
Frappé
3900 St-Laurent, 289-9462
All manner of dance music will rock this video poker-rific pool hall, charging $5 as of 9 p.m. and handing out free champagne at midnight.
Funkytown
1454 Peel, 282-8387
DJ Claude Cormier brings this disco haven alive from 8 p.m. onwards. Expect party favours, the Times Square apple drop live, midnight champagne and hors d'oeuvres at 12:30 a.m. Wednesday night fever will cost you $25 in advance and $50 if tickets are available at the door. Call 282-8387 to reserve.
Fuzzy (Brossard)
3 Place du Commerce, (450) 466-6877
Réveillons 2003 will rock your world from 8 p.m. to 10 a.m., with DJs Pascal, Drama, Guimond and Arabika spinning hip hop, house and R&B, along with $2,000 in door prizes, a buffet, champagne specials and open bar 'til 10:30 p.m. Buy $15 tickets at the venue or pay $20, night of.
Hard Rock Café
1458 Crescent, 987-1420
The Café of hard rocks is offering a mixed musical menu along with hors d'oeuvres, midnight bubbly and plenty of party favours, and although the tickets cost $75 across the board, buying ahead means skipping the line-up. Call the venue for details.
Jet
1003 Ste-Catherine E.,
842-CLUB; 924-7878
Admission: 790-1245, www.admission.com
Jet promises "Montreal's greatest DJs playing the best in hip hop, R&B, old school and house" for its NYE bash, namely Quest, Mahesh, Bo, Ruckus and MC Ricky J, to be broadcast live on Mix96 from 11:30 p.m. to 3 a.m. With open bar 8 to 11 p.m., the NYC countdown live on giant screens, an enormous balloon drop, party favours, all-out décor and free admission to Club Extreme on January 1, $59 (in advance) seems like a steal. Get yours at the club, Off the Hook, through Admission or at www.keennestproductions.com.
Joy
2102 de la Montagne, 287-1177,
www.joyclub.ca
"Feel the Joy" with free booze from 8 to 11 p.m., accompanied by a smooth, slick mix of house and R&B by guest DJs. Tickets cost $55 in advance.
Level Afterhours (Laval)
1540 des Laurentides, 940-6006,
Admission: 790-1245, www.admission.com
Beat 2 Beat presents Happyness 2004, where DJs Benoit Vinet, Carl Nuren, J-F Lauzon, Paolo B., George B. and Fantasy will spin house, techno, R&B, hip hop and reggae from 10 p.m. to 10 a.m. This party costs $20 in advance or $25 at the door, and VIP tickets let you skip the line-up and chow down at the fruit/energy-drink bar (call the venue for details).
Living
4521 St-Laurent, 286-9986
Reserve your tickets for this popular party spot ($35 in advance, $50 at the door), featuring DJ XL in the main room, Blast at the hip hop and Renegade on R&B, along with live percussionists, body painting, open bar from 9 to 11 p.m. and the countdown straight from Times Square.
Loft
1405 St-Laurent, 281-8058
Rock and dance 2003 away at this two-tiered bash, featuring mixed raucous sounds on one side and uptempo beats on the other, with Formula 1 drink specials from 8 p.m. 'til closing, champagne at midnight and a $20–$30 cover.
London
3523A St-Laurent, 842-9898
This Union Jack-draped haunt is hosting Her Majesty, a party that asks you to "be with her for the countdown." Well, Liz may have other plans, but DJ Yovan will spin a set fit for a queen, there'll be free booze and sushi from 8 to 10 p.m., champagne at midnight, free admission for January 1, all for $49–$59. Call the venue or 924-7878, or go to www.keennestproductions.com, about those advance tix and access to the VIP lounge.
Mile End Bar
5322 St-Laurent, 279-0200, info@mileendbar.com
E-mail to reserve a table at this chic resto-lounge, hosting Winter Wonderland with DJs Sean Kosa, Romeo Kardec and more, for $10 in advance and more at the door.
Orchid
3556 St-Laurent, 848-6398
This slick nightclub has perfected "the art of indulgence" in time for its NYE bash, Glamour 2004, where proper attire is a must. DJs Groove, Stylez and the Lymetyme Crew will serve the hot hip hop, house and Top 40 sounds from 9 p.m. on while patrons enjoy the door prizes, canapés, countdown and midnight bubbly. Move fast for $40 tickets, available before Xmas, or you'll pay $50 at the door.
Parking
1296 Amherst, 282-1199, www.parkingbar.com
Parking is so proud of its countdown spectacle, they've given it a name. Tilt 2003 will unfold on five giant screens with lights by Pascal Lefebvre, a soundtrack by Little Eric, décor by Benoit Cormier and additional visuals by Radical 5. Otherwise, expect DJ Stéphan Grondin at the tables, live action with Jae Aviance and Ma'm Houle, a VIP mezzanine with a buffet and free champagne starting at 9 p.m. for $5 in advance (at Parking and Priape), $10 at the door and $15 for VIP.
Passeport
4156 St-Denis, 842-6063
DJ Sly's dark rock and new wave rule the party at Passeport, which kicks off at 10 p.m. and costs $12, including a glass of champagne as the clock strikes 2004.
Publix New Year's Eve 2004
3554 St-Laurent, 284-9233
With R&B and house DJs, the Times Square countdown, champagne at midnight, a balloon drop, party favours and an open bar 'til 10 p.m., this resto-lounge on the Main will make the most of your $45. For $120, a four-course meal and two glasses of wine are thrown into the mix, and VIP booths are available for private festivities. Call to reserve.
Saphir
3699 St-Laurent, 284-5093
As always, there's two levels of fun at Saphir, two open-bar parties with $30 covers that get rocking and rolling at 9 p.m. DJs Plastik Patrik and Xavier Caféïne pop the glam-punk cork with Panic downstairs, and Armageddon 2003 deals out the gothik, industrial and new wave above, with live sets by Freakency and Mentat and DJs Mr. Black, Kaotik and Uriel.
Sir Winston Churchill Pub
1459 Crescent, 288-3814
This classic Crescent Street haunt starts rocking at 7:30 p.m., offering a buffet and bottle of champagne to every party person in the house. With access to Karina's and Winnie's upstairs, the party extends to three dancefloors and 25 bars. Tickets cost $35 in advance (at the bar) or $45 at the door.
Sofa Bar
451 Rachel E., 285-1011
Sit back, relax and enjoy DJs, a live band, a buffet and free booze from 10 p.m. to midnight followed by some celebratory bubbly. Sofa's doors open at 8 p.m. and tickets cost $35 in advance and $45 at the door.
St-Sulpice
1680 St-Denis, 844-9458
Expect all five of this über bar's floors to be bursting with party action, with multiple DJs dishing dance, hip hop, house and more. A glass of champagne is included in the $10 cover, which dips after midnight.
Stereo
858 Ste-Catherine E., 286-0325
NY's David Morales
Stereo Bar
858 Ste-Catherine E., 286-0325
Brad Copeland, Danny Torence
Le Syndrome
5777 St-Laurent, 278-5746,
www.barlesyndrome.com
Decked in hallucinatory lights and extreme ambiance, this new joint on the Main is throwing a mega party with DJ Still from 9 p.m. to the wee hours. Cover is set at $10.
Tokyo
3709 St-Laurent, 842-6838
Get out your leis, grass skirts and loud shirts, it's Tokyo's sixth annual Hawaii 5-0 bash, with quasi-tropical sounds by DJs Buck Rogers and Steeve-O, free sushi and midnight bubbly. Advance tickets cost $20 for women and $25 for men, and $5 more at the door, which opens at 9 p.m. Aloha!
Unison
3500 Côte Vertu, Ville St-Laurent, Info:
reseaucontact.com
Admission: 790-1245, www.admission.com
Mix96 and Réseau Contact present this mega bash, which starts at 8 p.m. and rolls out the free booze 'til patrons roll out sometime after 3 a.m. There's also a buffet, champagne, "two of Montreal's hottest DJs," pro Latin dancers, Citizen Kane performing top-40 hits and giveaways of all-inclusive trips to Jamaica. Advance tickets cost $96.
Unity II
1171 Ste-Catherine E., 523-2777,
www.club-unity2.com
Celebrate The End with DJs Sylvain Girrard, Gilles Jr. and Ivan Benoit, dishing out the beats from 9 p.m. onwards, for $10–$15. Unity II regular DJ Frigid is entertaining at SAT this NYE, but he's keeping up the Thursday Kink on both December 25 (Merry KINKmas) and January 1 (Celebrate & Vibrate). Prices are the same as ever, $2.75 all around, with lovely Yso at the door and electro, nu-rock and new wave on the dancefloor.
Upperclub
3519 St-Laurent, 286-4464,
www.upperclub.tv
Party at this intimate, elite bar to the sound of DJ Franco Fabi, the sight of surprise live performances and the taste of some delectable hors d'oeuvres. Doors open 9 p.m. and entry costs $40 in advance and $50 door.
Live music
under the mistletoe
Biddle's
2060 Aylmer, 842-8656
Reserve a table at this renowned jazz resto-club, where the delectable NYE table d'hôte is set at $55, and the show - featuring 56 musicians between 8 p.m. and 2 a.m. - costs an extra $20. The latest reservation available is 9:30 p.m.
Bill Wong's
7965 Décarie, 731-8202
This resto's tantalizing Chinese spread will be unveiled at 5 p.m. and Hip to Soul launch into their rock and dance music set at 9 p.m. With ample eats and entertainment and a free bottle of champagne for every couple, $49 seems like a steal.
Bourbon Street West (Pointe-Claire)
1866 des Sources, 695-6545
Rebound are set pump out radio-ready dance music for an open-bar kinda crowd, who'll also enjoy hors d'oeuvres, party favours and a big old balloon drop. This Pointe-Claire party kicks off at 8 p.m. and costs $65.
Brutopia
1219 Crescent, 393-9277
Afrosoul quintet Dibondoko keep the party hopping with three or four live sets, interspersed with more tuneage from DJ Ilya. This downtown brew pub suggests reserving $25 tickets, which include a lavish buffet and champagne at midnight.
Cabaret Mado
1115 Ste-Catherine E., 525-7566,
www.mado.qc.ca
Bye Bye 2003 casts the cream of Montreal dragsters alongside hostess Mado for an NYE bash of a different colour. Nana, Miklos, Kiki, Alexis K., Venus Lolita, Miss Butterfly and more rock the mic from 10:30 p.m. to midnight, when DJs Mado and Bobzilla start to spin. That'll be $12-$15, ladies, gents and all you inbetweeners.
Café Chaos
2031 St-Denis, 844-1301
Local punk legends the Ripcordz rock out with their punk out this NYE, with support from Random Killing, Ab Irato, Manic Manon and Barricade Mentale. It's that kind of party and it starts at 9 p.m., $10 a head.
Casa del Popolo
4873 St-Laurent, 284-3804
For the third year running, local act les Séquelles host their '60s pop and garage rock dance party, Bye Bye Boogaloo. Mods and rockers will celebrate in harmony to the tune of our hosts, their spin-off band les Macchabées and fellow locals Scatrag Boosters, Royal Route and BBQ, starting at 9 p.m., for $10.
Club One
1186 Crescent, 393-1663
It's New Year's rockin' Eve with the Mahones at Club One, where the party kicks off at 9:30 p.m. and the $25 cover includes free champagne at midnight.
Club Soda
1225 St-Laurent, 286-1010
La Veillée de l'avant veille brings you traditional music and dance on Tuesday, Dec. 30, by way of Quebecois bands Le Vent du Nord and La Rêve du Diable, the latter celebrating their 30th anniversary. This all-ages show starts at 8:30 p.m. and tickets cost $18.25 plus taxes and services.
Hémisphère Gauche
221 Beaubien E., 278-6693
Just in time for the holidays, Sick & Twisted Records returns on Saturday, Dec. 27, with a raucous meeting of the Shifters and les Mod's at 9 p.m., for $5.
Ho-tel Loft
4000 St-Dominique #2
Local act Launie Anderssohn is playing an all-request set at this loft party, where loose men and loose women are rumoured to be convening for some New Year's frivolity. There'll be booze, food and DJs and entry is free.
Hurley's Irish Pub
1225 Crescent, 861-4111
Celtae are booked to put the jig in your swig upstairs, while Solstice spread their merriment on the ground, upping this always festive Irish pub. Pay $20 in advance or $30 at the door, a cover that includes ample hors d'oeuvres and party favours.
Kola Note
5240 Parc, 274-9339
Ernie Butler's Comedy Nest hits Kola Note again this year with a line-up ready to wreck your funnybone. CHOM's Ted Bird MCs the soirée, featuring Rebecca Kohler, J.P. Bonnet, Wafik Nasrella, Johnny Beuhler and more. The comedy kicks off at 9 p.m. and the $45 cover includes generous midnight snacks, cake and champagne.
Lion d'Or
1676 Ontario E., 598-0709
Local rockers Paradise and Poxy hit the stage Saturday, December 27, a pre-New Year's party to light your fire. Be there at 9 p.m., with $10.
McKibbin's Pub
1426 Bishop, 288-1580
Local band Sona play downstairs and a DJ rocks the second floor as of 9 p.m. at this downtown party pub. Champagne, party favours and hors d'oeuvres are all part of the $30 cover.
McLean's Pub
1210 Peel, 392-7770
Enjoy the merry music of Belfast Andy and Swift Years and complimentary countdown champagne at this absolutely free fête.
Missy Bar
250 Mont-Royal E., 845-7946
This quaint venue has just been renovated to better accommodate live shows, just in time for longstanding local act Dédé Traké, playing "musique de chanvre" for NYE, for free.
Old Dublin
1219A University St, 861-4448
From 9 p.m. on, Pat Grider entertains at this Irish establishment, charging $10 at the door and pouring free champagne at midnight.
O Patro Vys
356 Mont-Royal E., 845-3855
It's "Meet Me at the Gates of 2004." Fall under the spell of fiery techno, a rich film feast and ancient sounds and sights at the NYE edition of this popular post-Goa monthly. Miguel Graça, Piki Chappel and Subluna will mix beats and bass with live didgeridoo, percussion and cello, Anita Bombita will dance the gypsy while Moment Factory unfurl their jubilant visuals, starting at 9 p.m. Call the venue for ticket details.
Pub St-Paul
124 St-Paul E., 874-0485
Wicked Access and another live band (TBA) play traditional music as of 8:30 p.m. at this outdoor spot in Place Jacques-Cartier. The pub invites you to escape the cold and enjoy their buffet and a glass of champagne at the zero hour.
La Sala Rossa
4848 St-Laurent, 284-3804
Fly Pan Am spread their lovely post-rock wings for NYE, with support from Montreal's Unitard. The show starts at 9 p.m., there's sparkling wine at midnight and it'll cost ya $8.
Spectrum
318 Ste-Catherine W., 861-5851
Admission: 790-1245,
www.admission.com
Classic Quebec band La Bottine Souriante reside at the Spectrum from Dec. 26 through 31. The NYE show starts at 9 p.m. and costs between $34.78 and $39.12, while the previous nights' performances begin at 8 p.m. and cost $29.56 to $33.91.
Le Swimming
3643 St-Laurent, 282-7665
Classic pop meets sweet soul music and garage rock at the High Dials' NYE party, featuring Philly's Three 4 Tens and DJs Amyl Nitrate and Rupert Bottenberg, rocking and rolling from 9 p.m. on, for $20 a head.
Upstairs
1254 Mackay, 931-6808
Enjoy the Diane Nalini Quintet over a three-course meal with wine and midnight champagne at this intimate downtown jazz club. Doors open at 8 p.m. and the package costs $129.95.
Ye Olde Orchard
5563 Monkland, 484-1569
Cougar Bait plays liver than live around 9 p.m. at this NDG pub, where patrons can enjoy a free buffet and countdown champagne.
