City plans New Year’s Eve bash

Those jam-packed New Year’s Eve parties of yore are strictly off the menu this year – just ask Dr. Fauci. The city of Austin is still putting on its official annual celebration on Dec. 31, but the party will be virtual, featuring performances from eight local bands spanning several genres, including Gina Chavez, BettySoo, Como Las Movies, and Parker McCollum. To add some hometown flavor, the performances were pre-recorded at venues around town such as Mohawk, Cheer Up Charlies, Antone’s Nightclub and others. The party is the city’s way of supporting Austin’s live music culture, City Manager Spencer Cronk explained in an announcement about the event: “Covid-19 has been devastating to our special events and entertainment industry. In 2020, the virtual Austin’s New Year event is able to benefit some of our local musicians and venues. We pride ourselves in being the Live Music Capital of the World, and this event will allow us to experience a little piece of Austin while celebrating safely from home.” Check the city’s website for ways to stream the party into your own living room.