Photo by Cazimiro.

Deciding where to ring in the New Year is an annual dilemma. Finding something fun and fabulous that sets the right tone for the impending twelve months can be stressful. But don’t despair! Whether your priorities are good food, entertainment, music, dancing or just spending time with the one you want to kiss, we’ve rounded up a number of picks to guide you. We’ve separated out a few especially intriguing options, and neatly categorized the rest. Our best advice, regardless of where you decide to party down: buy tickets soon — these events tend to sell out.

Of course, this is hardly a complete list of all your New Years Eve options in D.C. Pick one of your favorite bars or restaurants and the’re likely throwing a special dinner, gala, shindig, or party. So let us know in the comments what we missed and what you’re going to attend.

INTRIGUING

Ball Drop Burlesque & Variety Blowout Bash
Where: Red Palace (1212 H Street NE)
What: “What’s a new year without freaks and nudity?” asks the Red Palace. The Ball Drop Burlesque & Variety Blowout Bash will include burlesque, belly dancing, circus acts, ukuleles, and more.
When: Doors open at 8 p.m., the show starts at 9 p.m., “ball(s) drop at midnight,” and dancing ’til closing.
Price: Tickets are $25.

New Years EVOLUTION 2011
Where: NY Trapeze School DC (4th and Tingey Streets SE)
What: Open bar, dance performances (including aerial ribbon dancing), live painting, DJs, live music from electro-jazz band Chelsey Green & The Green Projec, and more.
When: 9 p.m. – 3 a.m.
Price: Tickets are $75 until December 19th, and $95 after.

Headliners Ball
Where: Newseum (555 Pennsylvania Avenue NW)
What: The Headliners Ball includes light snacks, an open bar from 8-10 p.m., access to the Newseum’s exhibits, dancing, music from The Mustangs and DJ Scientific Beats, a 40×22-foot HD screen to watch the countdown and a champagne toast.
When: 8 p.m.-2 a.m.
Price: $150 per person. Call (202) 292-6100 to purchase tickets.

Countdown to Hilarity
Where: Source (1835 14th Street NW)
What: The Countdown to Hilarity is a night of comedy from Washington Improv Theater groups onesixtyone, Jackie, Mythical Newsroom and Brick Penguin. Snacks, sweets, and a champagne toast at midnight are included with the price of tickets, but beer and wine will be available through a cash bar.
When: 10 p.m.-1 a.m.
Price: Tickets are $25.