We have the best places to go to celebrate New Year's Eve in OC. Here are some top choices (more to come tomorrow).

1. The Countdown: New Year's Eve at Orange County Museum of Art. Touted at the best New Year's Eve gig in OC (for art enthusiasts, at least), this celebration comes with music, art, film and Champagne. The evening features music and entertainment by Rocco Deluca & the Burden, The Growlers, Pawnshop Kings, and DJ Jesse C; an exhibit by legendary rock and roll poster artist John Van Hamersveld; and selected short films by the Malloys, creators of "Thicker Than Water," "Shelter," and "Matt Costa."

Tickets cost $75. Doors open at 7 p.m. Orange County Museum of Art 850 San Clemente Drive in Newport Beach. 949.376.9155.

2. New Year's Eve at the Pelican Grill. The Pelican Grill will host a first-rate celebration: a Champagne ice bar, a multi-course gourmet feast, a live band and dancing. Guests can choose between the prix fixe dinner only at the first seating ($125 per person) from 5 to 8 p.m. or the gala-style New Year’s Eve celebration at the second seating ($350 per person), from 9 a.m. to 1 a.m. At the New Year’s Eve party, enjoy a live jazz band, dancing and, at midnight, a champagne toast and the Times Square ball drop shown on 18 plasma televisions.

Pelican Grill is at 22800 Pelican Hill Road South in Newport Coast. 949.467.6800. www.pelicanhill.com

3. The Island Hotel's Appassinato II. Revelers can ring in 2008 at a New Year’s Eve gala at the Island Hotel in Newport Center. The extravagant affair will showcase the talents of award-winning Las Vegas vocalist and entertainer Jimmy Hopper.

The evening includes lavish cuisine, a spectacular backdrop and the finest amenities to celebrate the New Year in grand style. Festivities begin at 7 p.m. with a cocktail and hors d'oeuvre reception, anchored by a massive seafood ice bar with sushi, oysters and lobster. The hotel's poshly appointed ballroom will be transformed into a chic nightclub complete with fine caviar, champagne and entertainment by Hopper.

Following the show, enjoy Chef Bill Bracken’s gourmet dinner, dancing, a decadent dessert buffet as well as a Dom Pérignon bar with a fabulous ice sculpture. At midnight celebrate the New Year with a lively champagne toast and balloon drop.

Each couple will leave with a bubbly parting gift -- a bottle of Dom Pérignon to take home. The event costs $1,200 per couple includes tax and gratuity. For an additional $200 (for Appassionato II guests only), spend the night at The Island Hotel and enjoy a New Year's Day breakfast. 949.760-4920.

4. Kimera Restaurant & Lounge's alternative New Year's Eve. The hip restaurant will offer a champagne greeting, upscale gourmet dinner, dancing on an elevated floor, lounge music, performing artists, and party favors.

It's offering three inexpensive ticket choices: lounge tickets cost $30 and includes a glass of Champagne, and first-come seating in the Lounge. First dinner seating from 5 to 7:30 p.m. costs $60 and includes a three-course gourmet dinner and welcome glass of Champagne. Second dinner seating from 8:30 to 11:30 p.m. costs $90 and includes a four-course gourmet dinner and welcome glass of Champagne. Second seating guests keep their table all night and sit close to the dance floor. 19530 Jamboree Road (MacArthur and Jamboree) in Newport Beach. 949.261.1222. www.KimeraRestaurant.com

www.countdownoc.com

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