Yes, you’re single. But no worries; there’s still plenty of time to find someone with whom to lock lips under the mistletoe come New Year’s Eve. No matter what type of holiday honey you’re looking for, we know where to find them–and where to show them a good time on Dec. 31.
Wild and crazy guys (and girls)
Meet ’em here: You’re ready to try anything? The best bet to catch that uninhibited partner-in-crime is at comedy hub I.O. Sure, you can find future “SNL”-ers on stage, but lots of audience members are improv artists too. Whether you rub elbows with the hottie at the next table or make eyes at the crazy chick performing, the date you find here is bound to be the life of any party. Show times and prices vary; check metromix.com for schedule. 3545 N. Clark St. 773-880-0199.
Take ’em here: You’ve got a date who’s out of the ordinary; why not pick a New Year’s party that’s just as unique? Rhythm’s Drum in the New Year offers a drum lesson followed by a jam session for just $15. Chances are your attention-seeking date will keep the entire crowd entertained with a rousing, bongo-beating Matthew McConaughey impersonation. 9 p.m. Dec. 31. $15. 1108 W. Randolph St. 312-492-6100.
In the mood for love
Meet ’em here: For a date you might actually want to see again after the confetti stops falling, you’ll need to troll somewhere a bit more wholesome. And what’s more wholesome than ice skating? The cheesy, piped-in music; the hot chocolate; the Rudolph-red noses. Head to the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink at Millennium Park, and go ahead and ask that ice princess if she’ll help you lace up your skates, or feign a fall in front of the hockey buff and see if he helps you to your feet. 10 a.m. Daily. Free admission; $7 skate rental. 55 N. Michigan Ave. 312-742-5222.
Take ’em here: If you’re going to fall madly in love, forego all those fancy formal affairs; you’ll need something more reality-based to keep your head out of the clouds. Hit the Anti-Black Tie New Year’s Party at Piece; with unlimited brews, pizza, salad, dessert and wine, you’ll see just how many slices your petite little date can pack in or, if you’re lucky, how many letters of the alphabet he can belch at once. What’s more true to life than that? 9 p.m. Dec. 31. $65. 1927 W. North Ave. 773-772-4422.
Gimme some sugar!
Even if you don’t have two dimes to rub together, you can still hit up a swanky bash. You simply need to find someone who has several dimes to rub together. Don your dancing shoes and head to Enclave, where you can scout out a date who doesn’t mind throwing around a little cash. The true test is if your potential sugar daddy (or mama) buys you the $18 Gold Gift cocktail (lots of booze and shredded gold leaf, topped with a candy cane). If they’re willing to shell out that kind of dough for a drink, just think what other gifts might be in store for you. 213 W. Institute Pl. 312-654-0234.
Take ’em here: If someone else is footing the bill, there’s no reason not to aim high. Reach for the stars at Hilton Chicago’s Green Gala; with an open bar, six-course dinner, dancing to the Dan Hayes Orchestra and obligatory champagne toast, this party should be one of Chicago’s most chic. Plus, the couple’s package includes seating at a private table. Bring on the canoodling! 6:30 p.m. Dec. 31. 720 S. Michigan Ave. $195; $435 per couple. 800-591-6440.
I’ll take anybody. No, seriously . . .
Meet ’em here: OK, so you’re in the market for a desperation date. Any neighborhood bar can offer up willing singletons (just don’t be surprised if your sidekick doesn’t resemble either member of Bradgelina). But we recommend you try your luck at Johnny’s Tavern. Why? The owner keeps the door locked (at least every time we’ve been there) and buzzes in knocking patrons. Anyone who’s made his or her way through that is desperate for a drink–and maybe just desperate enough for a date. 3425 N. Lincoln Ave. 773-248-3000.
Take ’em here: You know the drill: The desperation date may require you to get as tipsy as possible before midnight (hey, we’ve all been there). You need something simple, something cheap. Hit the Celtic Crown New Year’s Eve Party for a $35 open bar from 9 p.m. to midnight. Three hours of swilling should do the trick, right? 4301 N. Western Ave. 773-588-1110.
