Greet the New Year in Style in State College

Written by JJ Robb

An estimated 1.5 to 2 million people were in Times Square to ring in 2012, but you don’t need to go that far to have a fabulous time this New Year’s Eve.

If you’re fortunate enough to be in the State College area for the last night of 2012, there are plenty of exciting nightlife options right here in Happy Valley, without the crowds of the bigger city celebrations.

For a sophisticated culinary experience, Gigi’s Restaurant is accepting limited reservations for a special Five-Course Food & Wine Tasting Menu. Chef Jeremy Naugle has prepared a tour of some of the best dishes you may taste all year, so make your reservations today. (2080 Cato Ave, State College; 814-861-3463)

Perched on Centre Hall Mountain, the Mt. Nittany Inn offers memorable dinner and drinks with a stunning view of picturesque Penn’s Valley. Their special New Year’s Eve Menu offers some classic celebratory favorites, including lobster and rib eye steak as well as a classic dirty martini and champagne cocktails. (559 N. Pennsylvania Dr. Centre Hall; 814-364-9363)

The Northland Bowl and Arena Bar and Grill is offering an all-inclusive New Year’s Eve party with entertainment, party favors, pork and sauerkraut, and a champagne toast at midnight all included for a single ticket price of $10. They are also offering VIP booths for just $100 for a party of four, which includes tickets, a bottle of champagne, and the best seats in the house for the show. A Northland Motel room can be added for just $75 with your dinner reservation. (1521 Martin Street, State College; 814-237-1500)

Community cultural hub, The State Theatre, is offering an alternative entertainment option with “The Gizmo Guys.” The duo of Allan Jacobs and Barett Felker has been described by the New York Times as “master jugglers with ebullient energy and exquisite skill. . . . human virtuosity with a touch of lunacy.” This family-friendly mix of dexterity and humor offers 6:30 p.m., 8:00 p.m., and 10 p.m. showings on New Year’s Eve. A First Night button is required for seating. (130 West College Avenue, State College | 814-272-0606)