Flagler Dog Track: If you are a die-hard sports fan who wants to catch all the college football action on New Year's Eve without spending big money, head out to the dog track. Be sure to get an early start because all your favorite bowl games will be televised on giant-screen TVs beginning at 12:30 p.m. in the sports bar. There is free admission to the track and the food specials can't be beat. Wings cost only ten cents and beer is a buck. At those prices you'll have plenty of cash left over to bet on the dogs! NW 7th Street and 37th Avenue, 305-649-3000.
Jeffrey Sanker Presents Miami 2003: There's nothing small about New Year's for some people. Those in search of the "big bash" will look forward to Miami 2003, brought to us by big bash extraordinaire, Jeffrey Sanker. Superstar DJ Victor Calderone, who's worked with the likes of Madonna herself, will be throwing down nonstop house for lots of shaking butts. General admission is $100 and VIP $150. For reservations call (305) 535-8606. Miami Beach Convention Center, 1901 Convention Center Dr, Miami Beach, 305-673-7000.
Junior Orange Bowl Parade: Now that the Orange Bowl Parade no longer struts down Biscayne Boulevard on the New Year, the Junior Orange Bowl Parade is the biggest one in town this holiday season. It strolls down the streets of Coral Gables on New Year's Eve with major floats and marching bands from local high schools. The parade, now in its 54th year, celebrates youth and is a perfect family outing if you don't want to take your kids out to a bumping South Beach party. And there's no admission, so you can bring the little rascals and their friends. For information call the Junior Orange Bowl office at 305-662-1210.
King Mango Strut: Begin your New Year's Eve by celebrating a day early at this twentieth annual alternative parade. This year promises to provide more comic relief with the theme "United We Strut." The festivities start at 2:00 p.m. December 30 at the corner of Commodore Plaza and Main Highway in Coconut Grove. Immediately following the strut, local bands take over and grind out tunes of their own. The only requirement to attend is a sense of humor. For more information call 305-401-1171.
Ménage: Mysterious romanticism is something lost from today's blatant, in-your-face sexuality. But this New Year's Eve a place appropriately named Ménage, as in trois, hosts a masquerade ball for all the lost romantics who want to ring in 2003 with the stranger of their dreams. The cover is only $30 before midnight and there'll be a prize giveaway for the best masquerade mask. 1532 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, 305-538-9191.
Vizcaya Museum And Gardens: Start your New Year at one of the most gorgeous landmarks in Miami. Feel the ambiance of the beautiful grounds while dancing under the stars to the beats of Atlas Shrugged and a DJ. Included is an open bar and light hors d'oeuvres. To make this black-tie-optional gala even more memorable, there will be a spectacular fireworks display at the stroke of midnight. Party starts at 9:00 p.m. and continues until 2:00 a.m. Call 305-856-4866 for ticket information. 3251 S Miami Ave, 305-250-9133.
