With 2008 just about ready for the history books, it’s time to look forward to the biggest party on the annual calendar — New Year’s eve. Times are tough, but for anyone wanting to celebrate the stroke of midnight and the promise that a new year brings, there is a plethora of options to choose from in every price range. Here is a look at some of the planned festivities: • Hipsters will be drawn to the Pearl Hotel, 1410 Rosecrans St., which will be offering a New Year’s celebration in its intimate poolside bar and restaurant with DJ Chris LaRose spinning tunes beginning at 9 p.m. The hotel’s classy, retro décor instantly transports revelers back to a timeless yesteryear that’s equal parts Rat Pack and Austin Powers but is completely sans kitsch. Dinner for two and a room at the hotel starts at $300, but for anyone wanting to just stop in for a celebratory drink and year-end camaraderie, there is no cover. For more information, visit www.thepearlsd.com. • Riley’s Music Lounge, 2901 Nimitz Blvd., is offering classic rock from Temple of the Dad, a collection of fathers from Loma Portal Elementary School. With a set list that runs the gamut from AC/DC to Weezer, the band promises to be crowd pleasers. Always known for a boisterous good time, Riley’s Music Lounge is located on the ground floor of The Quality Inn and is offering room specials for any overindulgers with a $15 cover charge for music and party favors beginning at 7 p.m. For more information, visit www.rileysmusiclounge.com. • Hard rock fans will also have a local option, with Dream Street’s (2228 Bacon St.) annual New Year’s eve bash. Onstage at 9 p.m. will be “pirate rock” band Dannicus Live. Mixing Celtic influences with classic rock, the band offers a unique soundtrack for the night’s revelry. Although the group’s music has a foundation of acoustic guitars, this is no singer-songwriter, pop-oriented event. Dannicus Live is terrific bar or pub fare that rocks with the best of them. For more information, visit www.dreamstreetlive.com • Anyone wanting to hear a little reggae when the clock strikes midnight is advised to head over to Winston’s, 1921 Bacon St. The area’s ultimate music-driven neighborhood bar promises to be the perfect spot for a friendly toast at midnight with music from reggae and funk purveyors The Devastators. Multiple San Diego Music Awards nominees from 2004-2008, The Devastators will preview material from its upcoming third album. The day kicks off with a local art showcase from 4 to 8 p.m., with music underway at 9 p.m. There is no cover. For more information, visit www.winstonsob.com. • Classic dance tunes from Motown to disco will keep the dance floor crowded at Humphrey’s Backstage Lounge this New Year’s eve. The club’s recent remodel offers better sight lines to the stage, but the venue’s location itself, overlooking San Diego Bay, offers one of the best views to take in as you ring in 2009. Music will be provided by one of the area’s top dance groups, Detroit Underground, with tickets for the event set at $49. For more information, visit www.humphreysby-thebay.com/backstageMusic-Club.cfm.