For families
At the Pre-New Year’s Eve Party at Little Beans Café, kids aged 1 to 6 can experience all the decadence and excitement of an adult holiday — G-rated, of course. Along with pizza, veggies, and desserts, the tykes can drink mocktails at the “libations” table or dance to family-friendly music under a disco ball. Dec. 30. Logan Square, Evanston. 5:30 p.m. $35, $20 for each additional child. littlebeanscafe.com
For fancy pants
If you’re going to dress to the nines, you might as well do it creatively. Hosted by the event group Privit Echelon Partnership, the 1920s-themed New Year’s Eve ball NYECHI promises to end Prohibition “again” with unlimited cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and plenty of jazz and swing dancing at the Lyric Opera House. Dec. 31. Loop. 7 p.m. $60–$150. eventbrite.com
For dog lovers
At this function at the Pillar Loft hosted by the pet charity Live Like Roo, canines are not just welcomed guests but pampered ones. And while your pup is treated to massages, decadent treats, and endless pats on the head, you can enjoy live music and hors d’oeuvres — and even enter to win a dog-friendly architecture cruise. Dec. 31. Near West Side. 8 p.m. $30–$85. livelikeroo.org