The end of 2019 is upon us. While Dec. 31 will bring a time of reflection for some, for many others it’s a great excuse to throw the biggest party of the year, in advance of any New Year’s Eve resolutions. This year’s musical offerings feature something for just about every musical taste and price range, with the Point Loma-Ocean Beach area ground zero for events in San Diego. Here are some of the area’s best offerings: TOP THREE
– One of the biggest end of year celebrations, OMFG! NYE 2020, will take place at Pechanga Arena. Part of a two-night event, Dec. 30-31, the EDM (electronic dance music) party will feature two of the genre’s current biggest names, Kayzo and Virtualself, the latter being nominated for a Grammy this year for his song “Ghost Voices.” Opening the event will be a selection of up and coming EDM talent including Anna Lunoe and Good Times Ahead. Attendees can expect the music to be on the loud side, with an accompanying light show, but if you are a fan of modern dance music, this is San Diego’s top event in the genre.
$135. 18 and up. 9 p.m. pechangaarenasd.com. – The Holding Company will feature music from DJ Mancat, who is also an in-house DJ for the San Diego Seals lacrosse team. “We are bringing in the 1920s with a roaring twenties theme,” he said. “The venue did a multi-million dollar makeover so I’m stoked to blow this place up for New Year’s Eve.” He’s looking forward do the night for more than just the music. “I like feeling the excitement of everyone’s resolutions,” he said. “It’s the best time of the year because this is the time where everyone collectively tries to be their best self.” $10. 21 and up. 9 p.m. theholdingcompanyob.com. – While all the other events on this page are centered around midnight and adults as their focal point, Tio Leo’s will host a special family-friendly concert featuring The Sea Monks, with New York’s Times Square Ball Drop as the end of year marker. Featuring guitarist Jeff Houck, the band plays a terrific mix of roc-a-billy and early country music, mixing old favorites like Vince Taylor’s “Brand New Cadillac,” with like-minded originals. Giving the show a special twist, The Sea Monks will donate 50% of their earnings from this concert to Mission Bay High School’s music program, to help fund the students 2020 tours to New Orleans and Cuba. $15-$20. 10 and up. 7:30 p.m.-10 p.m. tioleos.com. OTHER OPTIONS
– The most scenic location on our list, Humphrey’s Backstage, will have two bands performing this year. Located on Shelter Island, Backstage Live will feature music from Detroit Underground, featuring vocalist Stellita Marie, while the Backstage Restaurant will feature The Groove Mercenaries. Both perform soul, R&B and funk music, and have horn sections, but the nod here goes to Detroit Underground, who can turn classic rock like the Doobie Brothers “Long Train Runnin” into dance funk jams. The band includes both male and female vocals, topped by Marie’s terrific singing and stage presence, with a crowd-pleasing setlist meant to keep a dance floor filled. She looks forward to performing at celebrations like this. “I enjoy watching the happy faces in the crowd, everybody’s so excited about the coming new year!” she said. $90-$150. 21 and up. 9 p.m. humphreysbackstagelive.com. – Electric Waste Band has been performing at Winston’s for more than 27 years so it’s perhaps fitting that they will be playing at the beloved venue when the clock ticks into a new year. Performing the music of the Grateful Dead, the band plays the songs with their tribute band’s passion and spirit, making each show a unique experience. $25. 21 and up. 9 p.m. winstonsob.com. – Meanwhile, Beaumont’s will offer a night perfect for fans of vintage rock ‘n’ roll, with an appearance from Emotional Rescue. Though as the name indicates the band specializes in songs by the Rolling Stones, they also perform songs by a wide range of artists including The Beatles and The Kinks. $10. 21 and up. beaumontseatery.com. – Finally, Cafe Bar Europa-The Turquoise is offering a 1920s Speak Easy Night, planned to be a semi-immersive experience complete with live swing band, can-can dancers and DJ.
$100. 21 and up. cafebareuropa.com.