Ring in the New Year on South Whidbey

"If you're going out on New Year's Eve, stay on the Island for an array of festivities."

“Still making plans for New Year’s Eve? If you’re going out, plan to stay on the island, where there are choices for any preference:*Millennium Madhatterness, a party that is being billed as the “celebration of the century,” will be held at Bayview Hall from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m. It’s a community event open to people of all ages and free of charge. Snacking foods, sparkling ciders, and other goodies will be served. Music and entertainment will include the amazing stilt walker, Larry Dobson, as well as Duke LeBaron, Don Montecalvo, Local Buddha, Sister Monk Harem, Dirty Larry and Beverly Graham. Costumes are optional and there will be a “most magnificent hat contest,” with prizes for the top three magnificent hats. Activities for everyone are planned; families and friends are invited to put on their dancing shoes and “enter into the magic of wonderland.” Call 341-1852 or 579-5999 for more information.*Tom Hoeflich and David Maloney will play live music in a hundred-year countdown of the blues on Dec. 31 at the Dog House in Langley. The “End o’ the World’ party starts at 9:30 p.m.; admission is $7 at the door. Dress in your glitter and shine and come to dance.*Danny Ward and Reality play jazz on millennium eve at the Bistro in Langley: 221-2627 for information and reservations.*Teddy’s on Whidbey in Freeland features dancing to the music of the Furies at a festive New Year’s Eve party upstairs. There is also karaoke in the bar; call 331-2882 to reserve a place.*No reservations necessary for The Clyde Theatre, which opens the newest James Bond film, “The World is Not Enough,” starring Pierce Brosnan, on New Year’s Eve. Call the theatre, 221-5525, for times and prices. *If you’d like to leave your car at home, Royal Coach Transportation will provide rides to and from parties and events on New Year’s Eve. Call 341-4430 for reservations; or driver direct on the evening itself, 321-2220. “