Clubplanet Nightlife Features

CP Interviews Carlos Ponce at the Johnnie Walker Black Label 100th Anniversary

11/20/2009 1:30:00 PM

Carlos Ponce is the type of guy whose smile lights up a room. That is, without a doubt, one of the many reasons why he was chosen to host the “Johnnie Walker Black Label 100th Anniversary,” which took place last Wednesday at the Broad Street Ballroom.

Once we found the venue, we noticed that the room was decorated in sleek black and gold in a way that made us feel like we were at a classy New Year’s Eve soirée. At around 10:30 p.m., the crowded room full of top hats and tiaras went silent and Carlos Ponce took the stage. Although he wasn’t in his speedo, like he was when we last saw him in Couples Retreat, the crowd still went wild.

Lucky for us, we got to meet Carlos earlier in the evening. From the moment he greeted us with a kiss on the cheek, we knew that the interview and the party were going to be a success.

ClubPlanet: How did you come to be the host of this event?
Carlos Ponce: When I see a good thing coming, I always pounce on it. Last year was the 99th anniversary and I started joining forces with them. No really, I did, we had a big party in Miami. It's a good brand, it's a responsible brand, which, you know, to me is very important. You know, you sell alcohol to people and you've got to find a way to do it so that we can embrace it and have fun and enjoy it, especially in our culture and in the Latino way, but also to make sure that the messages are: we can do this, and we can do this in the right way, you know have fun, but as long as you have a nice balance - and these people do and I think it's nice, and it's classy and it's elegant.

ClubPlanet: Do you have a favorite Johnnie Walker drink?
Carlos Ponce: It's black. It's just black for me. I’m a blue man. I gotta throw that tag there (laughs), but you know it is black, a lot of people do love the blue but I'm sticking with the black.

ClubPlanet: So as far as your film career goes, I just saw Couples Retreat and I thought your role was hilarious. Tell me, what was it like working on that film?
Carlos Ponce: It was fun, it really was. It was a thrill. You know, these are great, great people. They're funny people, they're people with a solid career and they've been around forever so it's definitely like a university – the university of Bora Bora (laughs). We had a blast and I learned a lot from these guys.

ClubPlanet: So how long were you filming for?
Carlos Ponce: I was there for about a month and a half.

ClubPlanet: Is that where you got such a nice tan?
Carlos Ponce: Maybe...maybe I'm just blushing cause you guys are here.

ClubPlanet: As far as future plans go, what do you have in the works?
Carlos Ponce: I am going back to my language and I'll be doing a telenovela in Spanish for a little bit called “Perro Amor” and this guy is a dog. This guy is a dog. You're gonna hate him and you're going to learn to love him because he is pretty sexy but, um, he's kind of going to be one of those guys you love to hate, kind of like Dr. House. Like that guy is a jerk, but we love him. You know, this guy is a womanizer and he's kind of excessive in his lifestyle and overall and so that's my immediate project and then I have three animated flicks, two with Fox and one with an independent studio and I can say – I can mention two of the names – one is Marmaduke and the other one is Rio. Smaller roles, bigger roles and I love doing voice-overs, and funny accents.

ClubPlanet: Are those in Spanish also?
Carlos Ponce: No, all three are in English.

ClubPlanet: So I guess we will have to go review them then.
Carlos Ponce: Yes, I guess so.

The Best Weekend Parties

11/20/2009 7:00:00 AM

:: : NEW YORK CITY : ::

#1 Top Weekend Party in New York City: Grand Opening @ Crimson
Friday, November 20
The number one party of the weekend in NYC is without a doubt the launch of Crimson Fridays. DJ M.O.S. will be in the building to get the crowd rowdy with a special party tribute to DJ Am. Bottle service is available and free if you’re a lady and celebrating your birthday. We predict a lot of birthdays in the house this weekend, a lot of fun and a lot of crazy stories come Monday.
Click here for more information.

#2 Top Weekend Party in New York City: Saturdays with Matt Lanter @ Dusk
Saturday, November 21
Your winning streak at the roulette table isn’t the only thing that’s hot about Atlantic City this weekend. Star of 90210, Matt Lanter, will be at Dusk on Saturday night hosting one of this wekend’s top parties. The music will be bumping (as always at Dusk) and Matt will be there to party right along with you, so make room for this event in your busy weekend schedule.
Click here for more information.

#3 Top Weekend Party in New York City: Jesus Luz Live @ Hiro Ballroom
Saturday, November 21
Whether you go for his DJ skills or just to catch a glimpse of his beautiful face, we recommend getting in gear and heading over to Hiro Ballroom to see Jesus Luz, celebrity supermodel DJ and boyfriend to Madonna, this Saturday night. Get on the Clubplanet guestlist for reduced admission to the event and see what all the buzz is about.
Click here for more information.

:: : LOS ANGELES : ::

#1 Top Weekend Party in Los Angeles: Avaland Presents Erick Morillo @ Avalon Hollywood
Saturday, November 21
Another week gone by and Avaland proves yet again to be the hottest party of the weekend in LA. Superstar DJ Erick Morillo headlines this week’s party, making it a must for both club music lovers and those just down to have a good time. Tickets are just $15 in advance and we suggest getting them ASAP. With the following this party has already generated and Eric Morillo in the house, we expect a packed house til the club closes at 7am.
Click here for more information and tickets.

#2 Top Weekend Party in Los Angeles: Dirty South @ Vanguard
Saturday, November 21
Vanguard is a hip place to be any night of the week, but with Dirty South in the house this weekend, the place is sure to be packed. Come see what all the hype is about as the Grammy-nominated DJ/Producer takes to the turntables for what’s to be a stellar performance, especially with Vanguard’s Funktion One sound system in full effect. We recommend getting some rest before Saturday because this event will be going non-stop til 4am.
Click here for more information and tickets.

#3 Top Weekend Party in Los Angeles: Hollywood Club Crawl @ Beauty Bar, Ecco, Kress & Social
Saturday, November 21
What could be better than going to a hot LA nightclub on a Saturday night? Well, how about going to four without paying a cover or waiting in line. Sounds too good to be true, but that’s what earns the Hollywood Club Crawl a spot on our list. Just $15 will grant you access to Beauty Bar, Ecco, Kress and Social this Saturday night. Last week was the Hollywood Club Crawl’s biggest group yet, so round up the troops, throw on your hottest crawling shoes and add to this week’s party mayhem.
Click here for more information and tickets.

:: : SAN FRANCISCO : ::

#1 Top Weekend Party in San Francisco: So Fresh III: Old School Hip-Hop Party @ Risque Lounge
Friday, November 20
Oh, snap! Dust off those high tops and bust out those clunky gold chains, because this Friday Risque Lounge is taking a trip back to the days of Old School jams. DJs Twin Spin, Tactics and Big G will be spinning all the classics from LL Cool J and Naughty By Nature to De La Soul and Run DMC. If you grew up listening to this “golden era” of Hip-Hop and R&B, then you need to be at So Fresh (The 3rd Verse) this Friday at Risque Lounge.
Click here for more information.

#2 Top Weekend Party in San Francisco: The Premier Opening of Sloane Saturday @ Sloane Ultra Lounge
Saturday, November 21
We love attending hot parties (um, who doesn’t?) but we love them even more when they’re free. That’s why the premier opening of Sloane Saturday is at the top of our list of parties to attend this weekend. The vibe at Sloane is intimate and chic, and the club attracts some of the most sought- after DJs around. Keep in mind, your name must be on the guest list to receive free admission into the club.
Click here for more information.

#3 Top Weekend Party in San Francisco: DJ Nu Mark @ Mighty
Saturday, November 21
Great deals seem to be the theme of the weekend and DJ Nu Mark at Mighty this Saturday night is no exception. Admission is free before 10pm if you bring canned goods to the door and the open vodka/red bull bar from 9pm-10pm will get the party started, without draini

Do’s and Don’ts of the Nightclub Line

11/19/2009 11:58:00 AM

As the saying goes, "Good things come to those who wait." When it comes to heading out to your favorite nightlife venue or concert, this is especially true. Our friends across the pond call it "queuing." The simple act of standing one after another has been ingrained into our collective mindset since we were in kindergarten (remember going to the lunch room, gymnasium, bathroom?). As human beings we have been trained and conditioned through childhood to know how to sit back, wait your turn and not piss off the person in front of you. However, there is standing in line... and there is STANDING IN LINE. There is a certain code of conduct, a certain social etiquette that should be followed at all times while queuing. The most important thing to remember about standing in line at a nightclub is that, like any social interaction it is what you make of it. Lining up could be the most awkward moment of your life, or the perfect opportunity to get to know someone a little better, or even get to know someone for the first time.

The Do's and Don'ts of the Nightclub Line

Do
- Be Patient

Do Not
- Be so patient that you wait for your friends to come talking over after you hold their place in line for an hour.

There is nothing more annoying and infuriating than someone who graciously takes it upon themselves to hold the spot for their comrades who were too lazy to stand in line for themselves. 1. Standing in line is a testament to how much you want to get into the club. It's the time we put in to make it to the top. No pain no gain, feel me? It is not and will never be alright to hit up your little brother on his iPhone to see how far he is from the door and than join him with two people left in front of him, let alone guys.

Do
- Be polite and friendly to your neighbors in line.

Do Not
- Jump into their ultra personal conversation with absolutely no knowledge of their life or what they were talking about to begin with!

While yes, it's just fine to say hello to your fellow line mates and make polite conversation, there is nothing more ‘douschelike’ than to completely assume that you know everything about somebody just because you've been eaves dropping on their conversation for the last 15 minutes. The reason? Awkwardness. If the conversation becomes slightly strained, you will still have to stand next to this person for an unforeseen amount of time, and that kind of irritation could completely ruin the event you are lining up for in the first place. Save yourself the hassle and keep it light.

Do
- Be friendly to the staff of the club, especially those tending to the door.

Do Not
- Hassle the staff due to wait time, or anything else you might feel that you are entitled to.

What’s the biggest rule for those who go to restaurants? Don't mess with the people who make/serve your food. The same rule applies for those who are the great deciders upon where you will be spending your evening. The worst thing you can do is hassle the staff/bouncers/cashiers about the wait time. You are not on the guest list, which is the whole reason you are waiting in line to begin with! Kindness, however, can take you from the "never getting in" line to the "next to get in" designation. Make nice with the staff and they will be nice back. The same applies to everyone who works a service job in New York City.

Do
- Pregame

Do Not
- Get so wasted while pre-gaming that you can’t even stand under your own power let alone find your ID and cash to get into the Club.

This is pretty straightforward. There's nothing that can kill a whole line's great mood than some drunk dude falling into everyone and dry heaving into the bushes while waiting in line. Although it seems really funny at first, that good 30-45 minute wait to get in will get really claustrophobic really fast, if Mr./Mrs. "I can’t handle my liquor," targets you, your friends or your significant other to be their next best friend/projectile vomit receptacle. Get your swerve on before you hit the club to save some cash, but do it in a way where you won’t be defined by the bouncing staff as "the dude who's the first to get thrown out tonight."

If you stick to these rules, and also use a little common sense, you can enjoy your queuing experience to its fullest potential! Keep in mind anything that would annoy/bother you while standing in close quarters with a whole bunch of other people, will most likely annoy/bother someone else in the same, if not much more severe fashion. Avoid the awkwardness and irritation and be polite!

New Nightclub in Hotel Rivington to Open This Month

11/19/2009 10:30:00 AM

A new nightclub is coming to the Lower East Side. CV, located at the Hotel on Rivington, is opening this month.

CV is an intimate cocktail lounge that will offer experience unparalleled in the typical hotel lounge. The venue features hand crafted wood sculptures lining the walls and rich brown tones throughout. The sleek and sexy design creates a sophisticated yet playful atmosphere.

Named for the 105 people it holds, CV will be open from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. seven days a week. A late night food menu will be created by their neighboring restaurant LEVANTeast and a specialty cocktail list is being designed by an expert mixologist.

Keep your eyes and ears peeled for this lounge opening that you don’t want to miss.

Jet Hosts Forrest Griffin’s After Party

11/19/2009 7:00:00 AM

If there’s one thing that Las Vegas nightlife venues are good at it’s throwing a good fight after party. Last weekend they were all in honor of the biggest sporting event in the world, the boxing match between Manny Pacquiao and Miguel Cotto, but this weekend it’s all about mixed martial arts as one of the biggest fights in the sport takes place on Saturday night, and Jet Nightclub is hosting the official after party for one of the fighters.

This Saturday night at Jet Nightclub, Forrest Griffin will be in attendance as the official after party to his fight takes place. So long as the Griffin isn’t injured too bad you can expect him to show up, but regardless, it’s going to be one rage of a party that won’t end until the sun starts to creep up on the Las Vegas strip.

One Year Of Going Green

11/18/2009 11:30:00 AM

Located in SoHo, Greenhouse is the first eco-friendly nightlife destination. It is a bi-level nightclub built from recycled materials. In only one year, Greenhouse has already staged a number of high-profile events, which is why their anniversary party is predictably huge.

Tonight Greenhouse is celebrating their one year anniversary. The party is being sponsored by Dom Perignon, Belvedere Vodka, and Moet & Chandon Champagne. Doors open at 11 p.m. and $1 will be asked for upon entrance to benefit the Central Park Conservancy.

Mr. Mauricio, Jus Ske and Rashad Hayes will be supplying the music in the main room, along with Doug E. Fresh and other special guests. The lounge will be moving to the beats of Eli Escobar, Cosmo Baker, and Stretch Armstrong.

Jessica Lowndes Celebrates 21st at LAVO

11/18/2009 7:00:00 AM

If there’s one city where the majority of 20-year-olds would like to celebrate the big two-one, it has to be Sin City…well, at least that’s where the majority of Hollywood’s young stars seem to like to celebrate it. This past weekend another young LA actress celebrated her 21st birthday bash at one of the hottest clubs in Las Vegas.

Saturday night Jessica Lowndes, form the hit TV series 90210, celebrated her 21st birthday at LAVO. She arrived at the club in a Haute Hippi sequin dress, black spike Jimmy Choo for H&M heels and carrying a black and silver Jimmy Choo bag. She made sure to bring along her boyfriend actor Aaron Paul, who flew in the same day, making sure not to miss the party. Servers brought out bottles of champagne to her dance floor table in front of the DJ booth.

Top Underground Lounges in NYC

11/18/2009 7:00:00 AM

The term "trendy" is blurred and slightly skewed for Manhattanites, compared to what is deemed "trendy" or "elite" in other big cities around the world. The hottest clubs in LA may only hold 50 people and clubs of the upper echelon in Miami may have a strict door, but for some of the hippest, trendiest spots in New York City, you may not even know where the door is - and it's that clandestine nature, that word-of-mouth-only invite, that keeps the cool cats in and the club rats out. Some of these spots have recently become more popular, while others remain hidden below the radar in the basement of some average-looking pizza parlor downtown; but either way, we reccomend you check out these hot spots deep below the city streets.

The Submercer

How to get to the Submercer step one: observe SoHo's grand Mercer Hotel... and then go right past it. Step two: find tiny nook you thought was a utility entrance just a ways down the block and dip in. Step three: enter freight elevator, reassure yourself that you are not getting lured into some serial killer's dungeon and exit two floors below. Step four: follow long, dark hallway (slash supply closet filled with toilet paper and cleaning supplies) past boiler room until you arrive at big red door. Once inside, follow the sounds of ambient lounge music until you reach the final - (rub your eyes, no, it's not a mirage) - destination. The exposed brick walls, black-light lit bar filled with top-shelf booze and low ceilings give off a dungeon-esque vibe, while the looks of the crowd and the treasure hunt you went on to reach the club tell you this is no ordinary basement party. If you care to venture any deeper into the laire after your long haul, you may stumble upon "the red room," with red-painted walls, red banquettes and, to compliment the sexy vibe, a stripper pole. Have a seat, have a few drinks and get up on the pole if you feel like it - just don't wear yourself out before the long haul back to the outside world.

La Esquina

The first time I went to La Esquina ("The Corner") I was told to dress up, which confused me when I saw only flourescent lighting and a dinky taco stand upon my arrival. I was led to a door in the back where two big guys, ear-pieces and all, guarded the entryway with a clipboard and list in hand. We made the cut (aka dinner reservations made weeks in advance) and headed down the stairs, through the kitchen and into a gaping, cavernous restaurant, equipped with all sorts of nooks and decorated with gothic candle-holders dripping with wax. The food alone left me satisfied, but it was the extensive menu of oak-aged tequila that has kept me coming back since, for more than just a meal. With over 50 different kinds of tequila and a sexy, dimly lit bar hopping with beautiful people, La Esquina is perfect just as it is, so it's probably better off left hidden underground.

D'Or

The Dream Hotel is without a doubt one of the best places to go in Midtown Manhattan - but while the hotel's rooftop hotspot, Ava Lounge, provides the perfect space to drink and catch up with friends on a warm summer evening, the venue doesn't quite cut it on those cold winter nights. The solution? D'Or - a leather and gold hideaway below the hotel's upscale restaurant, Amalia. Descend the century-old carriage house staircase below the restaurant and enter a secret cavernous lounge with warm lighting and a cool atmosphere. After a meal at Amalia, D'Or provides the perfect mood for a casual drink and a low key conversation while some of the best DJs in the city spin their way from evening to night. This part of the evening would best be described as desert.

The Cabin Down Below

Perhaps this place is better off being called "that bar below the pizza place," since that's how it's referred to by even the most in-the-know New Yorkers. This homey little watering hole below an East Village pizzeria has generated quite a buzz - maybe from its celebrity hipster clientele or perhaps from its obscure location alone. You won't hear any techno and you won't see any bedazzled Ed Hardy, but you will see a spot reminiscent of your own apartment, fully equipped with book shelves and a cozy, cushioned fireplace, perfect for canoodle-ing. The vibe starts off low-key, but can get pretty rowdy, especially if a band decides to drag in their entourage for an impromptu afterparty... that is, if they can find it.

Underbar

This hip, swanky, provocatively-charged lounge dipped in red velour is ultra-intimate and extra-confidential, even more so because of its location down below the W Union Square Hotel. After entering on 17th Street, a stairway adorned with white floating candles will guide your way into the 2,000-square-foot subterranean lounge. The dark space is filled with thick, draped curtains and hidden tables, making for a great date spot - well, if your date is the one paying the bill. Expensive drinks is what's to be expected from this upscale hotel lounge, and if you're looking to impress someone special with a classy hidden venue and a high bar tab, then this is the place to take them. Otherwise, Underbar is not our favorite pick of the sub-terranean scene.

The City's Chimera: Dream Hotel NYC

11/17/2009 11:45:00 AM

Located near Central Park, the Dream Hotel NYC, is the perfect spot to kick back and relax. Dream features fantasy-like rooms that make you feel like you’re on cloud 9. Each room has a plasma screen, mini bar, and a bed with Egyptian cotton sheets. Most amenities like cashmere bathrobes and DVD players are obtainable upon request.

The hotel has two fabulous restaurants with decently priced food to keep you coming back for more. Amalia offers brunch, lunch, dinner, dessert, cocktails and even a pre-theater menu to be had before the entertainment begins. Some of the specialty dishes available are the Jumbo Shrimp Fideua and the Cedar River Farms Angus Skirt Steak. Both are cooked to perfection, along with the other choices recommended.

Serafina offers up fresh Italian flair in a celebratory atmosphere. They serve everyone’s favorite Italian dishes like Antipasti, La Brushetta, Prosciutto & Bufaline, along with specialty pizzas and pastas. Each dish goes perfectly with a glass of vino and is a great start to a night on the town.

Ava Lounge is the hotel hot spot that features French Riviera inspired décor. The lounge gives you panoramic views of Times Square, Columbus Circle and the Hudson River. Feel free to get cozy under the starlit sky or get comfortable inside with some candles and cocktails.

What’s a hotel without its amenities? Aside from the fine dining and nightlife, Dream offers retail therapy for those who have the urge to spend their hard earned cash. Take some time out from the hustle and bustle of the big, bad city and head down to the mall full of fashion.

Although Halloween is over, we can’t forget to mention Nightmare at the Dream, which was one of our featured Halloween events. This party, which was filmed by Bravo, is one of the longest running Halloween events in NYC and is considered to be one of the sexiest events each year. If you’re the type of person who tends to party with beautiful people, this was the place to be. Don’t worry if you missed it, there’s always next year.

The Dream Hotel NYC has a lot to offer. Whether you’re looking to relax under the stars or party like a rock star, Dream has it all.

Las Vegas nightclub Privé files for Bankruptcy

11/17/2009 10:21:00 AM

It's true, the recession is hitting everyone - including the always-lucrative, celebrity hotspot, Privé and it's posh sister lounge, The Living Room - both located in the Planet Hollywood Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. This Wednesday, the nightclub's owners filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in Southern Florida where Opium Group, the club's parent company is based.

Troubles for the nightclub were sparked earlier this year when both Privé and The Living Room were forced to close after breaking the rules set forth in their liquor liscence. The Las Vegas Gaming Control Board fined Planet Hollywood Hotel & Casino $750,000 for nine complaints against Privé, which included serving alcohol to minors, serving too much alcohol to guests and allowing drug use within the club.

The board set 11 conditions for the club to follow to get back on track, and Privé did as they were told. After implementing a new management team, allowing police to enter the club and reporting all serious incidents within 24 hours, Privé and The Living Room were granted a 90-day temporary liquor license about a month ago. However, the club's owners were still face-to-face with a huge financial problem.

Privé listed $50,000 in assets, compared to the $1 million to $10 million in liabilities owed to Las Vegas' ADT Construction ($1.6 million) Sun City Electric of Las Vegas ($844,000), and William Richardson of Las Vegas ($1.6 million) among others. But despite the financial issues and the LVPD's investigation of The Opium Group (which could take as much as 18 months to complete), Privé owners refuse to shut the club down. According to a ruling last Thursday, employees are still reveiving pay and benefits and intentions are to keep the club running as per usual.

Diddy to open new club in Las Vegas

11/17/2009 9:56:00 AM

After backing a record label, clothing line, movie production company and two restaurants, you think P. Diddy would call it quits. But the bad boy with the can't-stop-won't-stop attitude is back at it again, this time tackling the nightlife scene with a new club in The Hard Rock, Las Vegas.

The new nightclub, Vanity, is scheduled to open on New Year's Eve, but don't count on catching Diddy sipping champagne and watching the ball drop at the venue until a few days later - unless, of course, he plans to surprise his fans. "I may be out here, I may be shooting a television special," he said, withholiding all other details.

In regards to opening a nightspot in Vegas, the business mogul and rap superstar boasts it's the place for him. "I'm the Black Sinatra," he said. "I'm supposed to be out here."

Celebrity DJ Sighting at Quo

11/16/2009 7:00:00 AM

Over the weekend, Samantha Ronson was spotted spinning all night at Quo. Her performance, along with Raven O had the crowd going wild. Leave it to Quo to have a lineup that will keep you coming back for more.

Even though Quo Nightclub reopened its doors only a few weeks ago, it has instantly become a huge success. Quo offers two rooms featuring cutting edge DJs mixing the latest beats as well as nightly live performances lead by the legendary Raven O and the Quo dancers.

Quo offers a state of the art sound and lighting system. In addition to its moving lights, Quo offers a pulsating lazar and four CO2 injectors that give patrons an experience not felt in New York nightlife.

One viewing party you don't want to miss

11/13/2009 7:00:00 AM

This weekend the MGM Grand is hosting one of the biggest fights between Paquiao and Cotto. Since were all the way in NYC, miles away from the fight, Sapphire New York is bringing the fight to us.

That’s right; Sapphire is hosting the HBO fight live on the big screen. Why watch the game at home when you can enjoy it in a nightlife setting. Along with your beers and the fight, Sapphire offers classy amenities that keep their guests satisfied. Aside from the private butlers, the classy gentlemen’s club offers concierge services and designer suites.

So make sure you’re headed to Sapphire this Saturday night. After all, what’s better than boxing, beers and babes?

Joanna Krupa Dances Like a Star at JET

11/12/2009 7:00:00 AM

If there’s one thing we here at Clubplanet know about Las Vegas, it’s that it attracts some of the hottest women on the planet. These ladies just can’t get enough of the nightlife in Sin City and whatever comes along with it. Just last weekend one of the hottest women on the planet (ok, it seems like an exaggeration, but Google her and agree later) was in Las Vegas and hosting an event at one of the hottest and most talked about clubs.

Last Friday night Joanna Krupa, best known as the Maxim bombshell and current contestant on Dancing with The Stars, hosted an event at Jet Nightclub inside of the Mirage. Once inside she cleared the dance floor and wowed everyone with her solo version of the tango… we kid, but she did seem to be having a blast once inside.

Sutra is Turning Five

11/12/2009 7:00:00 AM

Tonight Sutra Lounge in NYC is celebrating its fifth anniversary. This epic event is not only featuring resident DJ Rob Flow but also the legendary Questlove. He is best known as the drummer for the Grammy award winning band The Roots, which is now the in-house band for the Late Night With Jimmy Fallon show. Downstairs will be hosted by the ladies of Gold Money.

There will be a champagne open bar from 10-11 p.m. and giveaways all night long. Some of the giveaways consist of makeup, goodie bags and photos. RSVP is required and no cover will be charged. This is one anniversary celebration you don’t want to miss.

Top Jazz Clubs in New York City

11/11/2009 7:00:00 AM

Since the early 20th century, New York City has become synonymous with all things jazz. From flapper girls shimmying their glitzy, fringed skirts, to smokey basements and sultry saxophones, to basslines that dictate the sounds of the Harlem streets, the top jazz clubs have always been nestled in New York City. A century has passed and the Duke Ellingtons and the Artie Shaws have all lent themselves to new generations of jazz musicians. However, their memory is kept alive by the jazz culture that continues to thrive in New York City, sometimes even in the same venues. But whether the musician changes, the sound is tweaked or a new jazz club emerges where a McDonalds stood last year, some of the top jazz clubs in the country can still be found today in New York City.

The Cotton Club

There is no jazz club in New York city more authentic, more spirited and more renown than The Cotton Club. Period. The club has been around since 1923 and has seen the likes of all the Jazz greats – Cab Calloway, Ethel Waters, Lena Horne – you name it. Performers such as Duke Ellington and Bill “Bojangles” Robinson graced the stage, and it’s all thanks to the Cotton Club that they’ve seen numerous stages thereafter. In the 20s, the Cotton Club was the hub of the hub for the wealthy, famous and notorious in Harlem and the entire nightlife scene. While many of the Jazz clubs on this list weren’t even a thought, the Cotton Club planted itself in New York City as a staple of culture and high society. After 50 years of operation, the club shut its doors, only to re-open with same reputation as the best of the best in December 1977. There’s nothing pretentious or overly glitzy and staged about this joint – just raw talent, home cooked food and, well, a crowd of people who know good music. Since the venue is way uptown in Harlem, you’re likely to see true jazz connoisseurs and those who have done their research, rather than swarms of tourists and bar-hoppers. Monday nights are swing nights and Thursdays and Saturdays are great for a buffet dinner and a night full of the finest jazz in town. However, we recommend the Cotton Club Revue this Friday, featuring the Cotton Club Allstars, The Cotton Club’s Sophisticated Ladies (a chorus line) and a performance by world-famous tap dancer Omar Edwards .

Jazz Standard

What could possibly compliment the sweet barbeque at Blue Smoke even more than a Mint Julep or an Illinois Swing cocktail? A heaping spoonful of hot jazz from the Jazz Standard just next door. With two sets an evening and late night sets on the weekend, you can show up for the band and grab a drink or show up for some tasty southern cooking and catch a band. The constant serenade by strolling bass lines and slide guitars makes this the perfect atmosphere for a jazz club, whether you’re a jazz afficiando or just passing through. Jazz talents such as Frank Morgan, Mina Agossi, Rene Marie and Andre Previn have graced the stage, allowing this venue to make the cut for our list of top jazz clubs in New York City – but that’s not the only reason. On Sundays, the venue showcases the Jazz Standard Youth Orchestra made up of talented children musicians from around the city. In lieu of a cover charge, the venue asks guests to make a $5 donation to the Jazz Standard Discovery Program. Great music for a great cause? – We like it. Monday nights are also a hit, with a showcase devoted to Charles Mingus, a sound the venue describes as “personal and emotional…it leaves all these spaces for these other musi¬cians to come in to put in their own personality and individuality to the music.”

The Blue Note

Now, Blue Note has not been around since the 1920s, but catch a buzz of how its reputation has built over the past 30 years, and you might think that it was. This Grenwich village hotspot was founded by Danny Bensusan, whose dream of bringing the most respected musicians to an intimate, cool setting has been realized and recognized while remaining authentic and not overly commercialized. We’re not sure how he did it, but we won’t ask questions. Artists such as Sarah Vaughn, Lionel Hampton, Tito Puente and Dizzy Gillespie all the way to Chic Corea and John Scofield have graced the stage at Blue Note, but the club, which prides itself on innovation and progression makes room for Hip-Hop, Soul and R&B in its creative, welcoming space. “What makes Blue Note so special is that on a given night, anything can happen,” boasts the venue’s website, noting impromptu appearances by Stevie Wonder, Tony Bennett and Liza Minelli. Check out the club’s “Late Night Groove Series” which begins at 12:30am, and for those jazz animals who don’t happen to be night owls, a jazz brunch is offered every Sunday at 12:30pm and 2:30pm.

Birdland

The “Bird” (Charlie Parker) lends his name to this world famous jazz club that once housed John Coltrane, Miles Davis and Dizzy Gillespie in its ‘50s and ‘60s prime. The venue has relocated from its nook in the Upper West Side, but sounds of modern day jazz luminaries and walls adorned with past legendary acts remind us why Birdland is still one of the best jazz clubs in New York City – and the music isn’t the only reason why we love this place so much. The folks at Birdland know how much a few dirty martinis and a night full of great live music can work up an appetite, so this supperclub serves up food like sweet, southern baby back ribs, lending the right tinge of southern comfort to this jazz haven. The price of quality jazz and tasty food is a bit steep with cover charges ranging from $10 - $50 depending on the night, but we think it’s definitely worth it. Nothing to do on a Sunday night? Check out Chico O'Farrill's 18-piece Afro-Cuban Jazz Orchestra, directed by Chico’s son, Arturo O’Farrill.

Iridium Jazz Club

The trendy 20s vibe is recreated (almost) in full in this subterranean jazz den, which resonates nightly with some of the best jazz sounds in New York City. Iridium has become famous in the past decade for its Monday night sets headlined by the notorious Les Paul. Since his death, Monday nights remain devoted to his legend with performances by Steve Miller, the Les Paul trio and more, keeping the venue alive and filled nightly with jazz-lovers of all ages. Jazz greats such as Jimmy Scott (vocals), Mike Stern (guitar) and Pharaoh Sanders (saxophone) make a night out at Iridium Jazz Club worth tolerating gobs of European tourists and a cab ride into Times Square – or the fact that there’s no dress code or age requirement, and students get half price tickets on select weeknights.

Hump Day At Its Finest

11/11/2009 7:00:00 AM

Hump Day is known as the middle of the work week. It’s the day when you start planning your weekend. This is usually when you find yourself procrastinating at work, looking up the best weekend parties. Most people don’t know this Wednesday has become a big party day. For now on instead of wishing for Friday to come sooner, you can sit in your cube at work and plan your Wednesday night.

Wednesday night is now singles night at Columbus 72. And as a part of singles night, this hot venue is bringing back swing. That’s right, from 7:30pm to 11:00pm, swing dancing will take place. Music will be provided by Joe Battaglia and his 17 piece swing band. Admission is $10.

Another hump day event is Classic Salsa Wednesdays at LQ. For all you new comers, free lessons are provided by Amaryllis. DJ Norty Corto will be playing salsa in the main room and mixed music will be provided by DJ Lucho in the Q room. Complimentary buffet and drink specials are offered from 6-8PM.

As you can see hump day is all about trying new and exciting things. Entertain yourself with the sounds of merenge instead of the typical dance tunes played on the weekends.

Victorian Bliss in Greenwich: Sweetiepie NYC

11/10/2009 1:37:00 PM

Sweetiepie is a modern take on an old-fashioned restaurant. It's the kind of place that makes you feel at home. Its colors, décor, and antiques put together the perfect combination for an evening of bliss.

Open from noon to midnight during the week and 10 a.m. to midnight on the weekends, Sweetiepie serves up breakfast, lunch, dinner and some of New York’s finest desserts. Some menu specialties include their homemade mac and cheese, their Hanger Steak, their soups, salads and waffles.

This fancy, Victorian-style venue offers up desserts that truly put the “sweet” in Sweetiepie. If you find yourself with a sweet tooth in the middle of the afternoon, hop in a taxi to Sweetiepie. At Sweetiepie’s there is a menu full of ice cream sundaes, colorful cakes and cookies that will make your mouth water.

For all you sugar lovers, Sweetiepies’s main attraction is their Sweetiepig. The Sweetiepig is a $75 combination of sponge cake, whipped cream, bananas, strawberries, and 18 scoops of ice cream. It’s a meal in itself. Don’t worry if you don’t think you can handle the brain freeze that’s bound to come along with it. Sweetiepie also has a smaller version of the “pig” called the Sweetiepiglet. The Sweetiepiglet consists of the same amount of sugary goodness with a little less ice cream. Six scoops to be exact.

For all you cocktail lovers, Sweetiepie’s has a variety of cocktails, wines and fruity drinks that will keep you coming back for more. Let’s be honest nightlife is huge in New York and if this place didn’t prepare some of the best tasting drinks, then it wouldn’t be worth writing about. Some of their famous cocktails are Tickled Pink, The Absinthe Champange Cocktail and of course, The Sweetiepie. Tickled Pink is a combination of Crop Vodka, Tonic, Campari, and fresh lime. The Absinthe Champagne Cocktail is a mix of Grande Absente, Sugar Cube, and Champagne. The Sweetiepie includes Champagne, Ct. Germain, and Pomegranate. All of which are worth getting out of bed for.

Sweetiepie isn’t the kind of place that you wander into everyday. It’s a place where you feel like a kid, while still maintaining your adulthood. It has a little something for everyone and that’s what makes it magical.

“This Is Burlesque” is Back

11/6/2009 8:10:00 AM

Burlesque is a humorous yet theatrical form of entertainment involving parody and sometimes grotesque exaggeration. It is the type of show that you want to see on more than one occasion.

“This Is Burlesque” has come back to the stage. Starring the famous Drag King Murray Hill and Angie Pontani, this special event will be performed every Friday and Saturday night. The original cast from Corio can now be seen at Sweet Carolines. The show will still start at 9:30 pm; it will just be at a new uptown location.

One Anniversary You Don’t Want to Miss

11/5/2009 8:51:00 AM

Exactly one year ago, Aspen Social Club opened its doors to the public. Located in the heart of Times Square, this snazzy club has heavily influenced the world of nightlife. Its cozy, lounge feel is very welcoming. It is the type of place that makes you feel like a classy New Yorker living the good life.

ASC is throwing a huge anniversary event in honor of their successful first year. Tomorrow night there will be an open bar starting at 9 pm and nightlife legend Steven Lewis will be taking care of the music.

Along with the anniversary, they are also celebrating Greg Brier’s birthday. This is one event that you don’t want to miss.

Top Celebrity Owned Clubs in NYC

11/4/2009 1:48:00 PM

The only thing better than going to a nightclub in New York, is going to one that is owned by a celebrity or two. At these celebrity owned venues, you never know who you’re going to run into. If you’re planning a night out on the town, then why not head to one of these exclusive places. After all, if you can’t be a celebrity, you might as well party like one!

National Underground

Gavin Degraw and his brother opened this live music venue a few years back. Located in the Lower East Side, the bar offers good music, food and drinks in a relaxed atmosphere. There is no cover charge and the music is always great. They are open from noon to 3 a.m. serving lunch, dinner and late night snacks. Happy hour is every day from noon to 7 p.m. and burgers cost only $5 until 5 p.m.

Angels & Kings

Pete Wentz invites you to put on your “guyliner” and rock out at Angels & Kings. This East Village bar hosts a number of double-letter themed nights like Nerd Nite, Starlet Sundays and Trainwreck Tuesdays. The walls are lined with mug shots of some of your favorite performers like Frank Sinatra, Sid Vicious and Jim Morrison. This is perfect venue for a private party or event. They are open till 4 a.m. and from 8-10 p.m. on Monday-Saturday, drinks are 2-1.

Santo’s Party House

Andrew W.K. is a rock musician who has been playing music all his life. After launching his solo career, he decided to take the next step in the music industry…opening a club. In Spring of 2008, Santo’s Party House was opened. Andrew, along with three partners, have created a multi-level nightclub and live concert call. The space is designed for dancing and live music. In 2008, it was one of the only places granted a liquor and cabaret license. The cabaret license means people can legally dance until 4 a.m. Since opening, Santos Party House has received numerous awards, including The People's Choice Award for Best Night Club and Best New Club.

40/40 Club

Owned by the one and only Jay-Z, The 40/40 Club is the ideal place for sipping cognac and smoking cigars. There are plasma screens everywhere as well as three private VIP rooms, this is definitely the place to be. The 40/40 Club is named after one of baseball's most prestigious achievements. A benchmark for power and speed, The 40/40 Club includes players who hit 40 home runs and steal 40 bases in one season -- only Barry Bonds (1996), Alex Rodriguez (1998), Jose Canseco (1988) and the newest fourth member, Alfonso Soriano (2006) can call The 40/40 Club home. The décor is a mix of memorabilia from this country's greatest games coupled with Manhattan sophistication.

Nicky Hilton Hosts at PURE and Brings Family Along

11/4/2009 8:39:00 AM

There’s always a party in Las Vegas when the Hiltons are in town and that’s exactly what happened last weekend during PURE’s very special Halloween bash. Nicky Hilton was in the house dressed as Audrey Hepburn from Breakfast at Tiffany’s (complete with a Chanel bag and Christian Louboutin pumps) hosting the evening’s ghoulish festivities. But instead of bringing her other sis and a slew of friends that would have crammed their VIP area, she opted for family.

Nicky’s parents, Rick and Kathy, were at the party as well as other family members including Nicky’s younger cousin, Farrah Aldjufrie, who was celebrating her 21st birthday that night, and what a way to celebrate it! She also gave away the first prize to the costume of the night, which she gladly gave to a man dressed as the Transformers character Bumble Bee.

Dance Parade Lift Off

11/4/2009 8:38:00 AM

Every May, for the last three years, the New York Dance Parade takes place down Broadway. People move and boogie down the streets showing their appreciation for dance. With 2010 right around the corner, this year, Santos Party House is hosting the Dance Parade Lift Off party.

Taking place this weekend, Lift Off 2010 will last from 6 pm to 12 am. The event is featuring New York City’s hottest DJ’s including East Village Radio DJ Bruce Tantum and d_Juice, projections by Blue Crash, performances by the NYC Flaggers, Groove Hoops, Dance Manhattan, aerialists, burlesque and more.

Minimum entry is $5 and the suggested donation is $10. Santos’ is located on Lafayette Street in Manhattan. Come out and show your support.

True Life: I Survived Halloween 2009

11/3/2009 7:00:00 PM

When it comes to Halloween, everyone’s got a story. Whether you puked in front of the bouncer at Tao or made out with someone dressed as Zack Galifinakis from “The Hangover,” we know how eventful Halloween can be - and how much we all love to hear those stories the week after. So, for your viewing pleasure, we have sifted through numerous Halloween survival stories and landed upon a few interesting tales we think you’d enjoy – and, hey, if you think your story tops these, we’d love to hear all about it.

Right hand on drink, left foot on Pub Crawl:

Even though the winds were howling and the rain was falling, New York City was still filled to the brim with costumed craziness this Halloween. The streets buzzed with excitement, as Lady Gagas, Michael Jacksons and zombies galore party-hopped up and down the city streets. Rather than settling down at just one spot for the night, 20 of my closest friends and I decided to spend our night wandering the streets of New York as some of the many participants in this year’s Halloween Pub Crawl.

TG Whitney’s lured us in and as our registration spot, they couldn’t have been more accommodating. After a breezy exchange of ticket for wristband, we guzzled a drink and were on our merry way.

We began our night at O’Neill’s, a standard New York City pub. Besides the requisite comments about my costume (I was dressed as a Twister board and was met with many requests for right-hand-red groping opportunities), O’Neill’s welcomed us with open arms – with 2-for-1 drink specials. I successfully downed a vodka tonic, SoCo shot, Lemon Drop shot, and Bud Light before deciding that it was time to forge ahead to the next stop.

O’Neill’s – and the rest of the pub crawl, for that matter – can best be described as a “man-up” situation; we had to suck up the crowded bars and the spilled drinks because it came with the territory. I looked at the packed turf as an excellent opportunity to fraternize with fellow crawlers, sharing our hopes and dreams for the long haul ahead. I found an especially friendly crowd at our second stop, the Hook & Ladder Pub. This “little pub that could” was packed with zealous characters, who were all eager to get a hold of the $2 Bud Light special. It turned into a team effort, with the Army stud at the prime bar-side location taking orders in bulk. As pitchers were passed, and dollars were lost, it turned into a community of crawlers.

Our welcome at the Hook & Ladder had come and gone, so it was on to the next spot. A few fellow Syracuse Alumni were located at Van Diemen’s, and assured us that beer was flowing and there was room to breathe. The upstairs section proved to be prime location for speedy service allowing me to consistently have a drink in hand. After some time there, Van Diemen’s pub crawl participation time had come to an end. At that point, my friends and I decided we were not in any condition to navigate the rest of the pub crawl venues, so we just decided to go across the street to Arctica, another pub crawl participating bar, where we parked ourselves for the rest of the night. It proved to be an excellent alcohol-induced decision, as my friends and I grabbed prime real estate at a private table and danced and raged as the night progressed.

Before I knew it, it was 3 AM and I still had not made it to my dream destination for the night – Carnival. So, I grabbed two obliging friends, hopped in one of the scarce cabs that were out that night, and made our way to the Union Square hotspot. Carnival provided me with everything I needed at that moment in time – popcorn, alcohol, music and carnival games. After downing a well-buttered tub of popcorn and winning a bear after sinking a basketball shot, it was time for me to bid Halloween adieu. I braved the weather, the crowds, and the obnoxious guy in the Chrysler Building costume (is it necessary to wear something that takes up that much room?) and had my most successful Halloween to date. I even made it home with my Twister spinner – just another cherished memento of Halloween 2009.

-- Sara Lambert, 22, New York City

Too much alcohol, not enough flair:

Suspenders covered in flair and a nasty hangover: the only evidence that Halloween 2009 actually occurred. There were no pictures, no reciepts and absoloutely no recollection of the night before, so after chatting with a few friends, I was able to piece together my night… and it was NOT pretty.

After working all day, I changed into my “Jennifer Anniston a la Office Space” costume and hit the streets for the pub crawl around the corner. About three vodka tonics and one (unfortunate) lemon drop shot later, I rudely gave the vampire hitting on me the boot and ventured to bar number two about 10 blocks down. In the 15-20 minutes it took me to get there, my hair turned to a frizzy mess in the pouring rain – and I, too, was nothing less than a frizzy mess to onlookers, who witnessed me fight a war against my high heels. The shoes won.

At the second spot I pulled some ninja moves to cut to the bar, grabbing a vodka sour for my friend and another, unnecessary vodka tonic for myself. Since she was outside playing “slap the bag” with a boxed-wine-toting superhero, I downed both drinks and headed to the pregame. That’s right, the “PRE” game.

I arrived at my friend's, pounded shots, took a few pictures and headed to The Park. Either they didn’t check tickets or I just waltzed (tumbled) in, but once inside – or outside – I had a blast. The music was bumping with the sounds of B-Roc, all my friends were there and I may or may not have tried to climb one of the trees inside. Whatever, irrelevant. There were no tears, so I’m sure the party was as awesome as I heard it was.

From that point on I remember nothing. Apparently I got in a limo with a couple friends, headed to Carnival, booted outside and then swallowed a slice of pizza whole. A full pack of cigarettes and one word texts proved that I was even too drunk to chainsmoke or drink and dial. Awesome.

The next day I woke up on my friend’s couch, wearing an I <3 NY t-shirt (that wasn’t mine) with a pounding headache and a bruise on my left arm. After some ibuprofen, some Shake Shack and some quality couch time, I can proudly say that I survived my first Halloween in NYC…barely.

-- Taryn Haight, 22, New York City

A dose of Halloween in Coconut Grove:

I live in West Palm Beach, and needed a chance to get out of town for the holiday. Luckily, a good friend of mine was house sitting at this amazing place in Miami and needed a bit

Bowlmor Lanes presents Carnival

11/3/2009 1:30:00 PM

Located right above Bowlmor Lanes lies a place where mystery and nightlife are combined. A place that could only be described as magical. What seems like a Coney Island attraction in a Manhattan setting is truly something everyone will be talking about.

Carnival features music, dancing, gaming and drinking all under one roof - or in this case, one tent. During the day, enjoy a family-friendly carnival. The kids can get their faces painted and play all day. At night, leave the kids at home and let fantasy come to life.

The upscale club environment that is Carnival lets your imagination run wild. The drink specials alone will keep you coming back for more. Satisfy your sweet tooth with a Carmel Apple or a Blue Cotton Candy Martini. The Dunk Tank, which is two gallons of alcoholic fun, is the best choice if you're traveling in a group.

Carnival makes it feel like summer all year long. With amusement park snacks, you don’t have to wait until school's out to get your hands on a Coney Island corn dog or a snow cone.

The grand opening on October 8 was a huge success. Celebrities like Paris Hilton joined in on the festivities. Carnival was packed out with a crowd just looking to have a good time. In time for Halloween, they hosted "A Haunted Carnival," one of the top spooky bashes in New York City.

Whether you are in search of a fun, extravagant evening or a night filled with clowns and distorted mirrors, the circus-setting makes for the perfect carnival experience, whatever your taste may be.

Carnival is conveniently located in Union Square. Head to your local train station and get ready for the ride of your life.

Thanksgiving Eve's Hottest Parties

11/3/2009 10:20:00 AM

With Halloween behind us, now is the perfect chance to start talking about the next big holiday for nightlife. Thanksgiving Eve has recently become one of the biggest nights to go out. When college students come home for Thanksgiving break, the first thing they think of is where they are headed Wednesday night.

Clubplanet is of course ahead of the game and has started listing some of the hottest parties. Promenade is throwing the unforgettable Thanksgiving Eve party where you get to see some of New York’s hottest DJs for only $25. Providence is also hosting a great party with a special live performance by Bachata Heightz. Spinning will be DJ C-Lo and San One.

These are just some of New York’s top parties this Thanksgiving Eve. Stay tuned in with Clubplanet.com to find out more.

A Pub Crawl for the Record Books

11/2/2009 2:41:00 PM

A pub crawl is the act of one or more people drinking in multiple pubs or bars over a span of several hours. It’s ideal for people like me who can’t make a decision about where they want to spend their Saturday night.

This past weekend, over 130 bars participated in what the Guinness Book of World Records calls the Largest Pub Crawl in the World. Pubcrawls.com took over NYC and turned Halloween into Halloweekend.

From Friday to Sunday, no cover was necessary and drink specials were featured at all of the participating bars. Between the $2 Bud Lights, the two for one pumpkin ales and the two-for-one Halloween cocktails, the pub crawl was a success.

The streets of Manhattan were packed with Lady Gagas and Ninja Turtles showing off their festive orange and black pubcrawls.com wristbands. The creatures of the night followed their maps and embarked on a journey that they are probably still trying to remember.

Each of the 130 bars featured a different experience of fun and partying. Don’t worry if you missed out - even though Halloween comes once a year, our world famous Luck of the Irish St. Patrick’s Pub Crawl is right around the corner. Check out pubcrawls.com for all your crawling needs.

Sunday is Romance Night at Ayza

10/30/2009 9:55:00 AM

Halloween weekend is full of running around and partying. As much fun as that is, come Sunday all you’re going to want to do is kick back and relax. Ayza Wine and Chocolate Bar is the perfect place to relax and pamper that special someone.

Every Sunday is "Romantic Sunday Couples" Night at Ayza. This special includes candlelit tables covered in rose petals. Between the music, wine and chocolate, you can’t go wrong.

Fragoli’s Passion Gets Through the Red Velvet Rope

10/29/2009 9:43:00 AM

Meet Fragoli’s Passion. It’s a pink bubbly concoction that is making its way down the red carpet.

Passion flutes have been popping up all over New York wherever fashionistas, showbiz types, or top execs go to party. This new hip drink is a blend of trendy Fragoli Fresh Strawberry Liqueur topped with Italian sparkling prosecco. Fragoli Passion is created when the mini strawberries, which are in the bottle, rise to the top of each flute.

Classic Marketing has created “Passion Bars” dedicated to private events featuring this drink. Some of the Passion Bars will be at the Obie Awards at Webster Hall, the Avenue Model Management party at Tribeca Grand Hotel, the LolloPoppit Fashion Show after-party at the Empire Hotel and a special birthday party at Greenhouse.

Celebrate Halloween with Your Favorite Stars

10/28/2009 10:55:00 AM

M2 Ultra Lounge is known to throw amazing parties. It is the type of place where you dress to impress. You never know who you’re going to run into.

This Saturday night, M2 is featuring a Halloween party that you don’t want to miss. This party is so exclusive that it is being hosted by Mariah Carey and Nick Cannon. Not only will they be the stars of the evening, but Nick will also be spinning for most of the night, in addition to DJ Theo.

If you ask me there is no better way to celebrate Halloween. Tickets are selling out fast, so make sure you get yours today.

To get your tickets, click here.

Killer Booze: The Best Halloween Cocktails

10/27/2009 11:00:00 AM

If there’s one holiday that gives anyone an excuse to dress up as their favorite superhero or villain, gorge on candy, dance the night away, and watch scary movies with glee, is Halloween. It may be known as the scariest day of the year, but it can also be the most fun, especially if you’re throwing a haunting Halloween party that will surely frighten the pants off any guest. To jumpstart the festivities, why not prepare some spooky spirits with ghoulish garnishes that are creepy and downright eerie? While our favorite Halloween cocktails are dangerously delicious, some are more menacing than others. However, each conjures up monsters from your nightmares and reveals tales of doom and gloom. Whether you’re looking to satisfy a vampire, witch, or zombie at your bash, here are the top Halloween cocktails that’ll have patrons howling from delight.

Best Halloween Booze: Sour Witch

There’s no need to wave a wand to make the Sour Witch come to life. Made by cocktail guru Jonathan Pogash, this Sour Witch will leave you feeling as if you’re flying away on a broomstick, but beware, this elixir isn’t as sweet as Harry Potter. The Sour Witch is no laughing matter because it packs a powerful bitter punch, all thanks to tangy cherries that will leave you aching from pain and perhaps even pleasure if you’re brave enough to drink it all the way through. Don’t be fooled by its soft baby pink hue and elegant champagne flute glass, this drink features hypnotic absinthe that, according to legend, can cause hallucinations beyond your wildest imagination.

Ingredients
1 1/2 oz. Absinthe (We used Lucid)
3/4 oz. Almond Syrup
1/2 oz. Lime juice
3 or 4 Pitted sour cherries
Sparkling wine or champagne
Grated nutmeg

Preparation
In the bottom of a mixing glass, muddle the sour cherries in the lime juice and almond syrup. Add absinthe with ice and shake very well. Strain into a chilled champagne flute. Top with sparkling wine or champagne. Garnish with grated nutmeg for some added spice.

Best Halloween Booze: Goblin Ghoulade

Halloween is the only holiday of the year where you can scare your friends to death and let’s face it, tricks are for kids. If you’re looking for a unique way to frighten guests, don’t settle on spending hours learning how to apply plastic wounds from the 99 cent store. Goblin Ghoulade is so easy to make that its mind boggling, especially because tart cranberry juice and sweet black raspberry liqueur can make any cocktail look like blood. For some added effect, an “eyeball” made of radish and blueberry is added on top, warning visitors of what can happen to them if they leave your party early. Do you dare to have the first taste?

Ingredients
1 oz. Vodka (We used Finlandia)
1 oz. Black raspberry liqueur (We used Chambord)
1 oz. Roses lime juice
1 oz. Cranberry juice
1 Radish
1 Blueberry

Preparation
Pour all ingredients in a cocktail shaker and shake. Strain drink into a martini glass. To create the eyeballs, peel 1 radish per glass and leave some red skin to form veins. Hollow out center of radish and place a small blueberry to form the eye. Serve eyeball floating or on a drink skewer.

Best Halloween Booze: Vampire Martini

Vampires are all the rage this season. From the tween favorite Twilight, to the steamy Jennifer’s Body, everyone is hooked on these blood sucking creatures of the night, possessing ghost white skin that’s colder than death and mesmerizing crimson lips. Don’t miss your chance to quench your thirst with a bloody drink that drips red sugar into champagne, vodka, and black raspberry liqueur. Party until sunrise with this delicious, sinful treat!

Ingredients
1 ½ oz. Chilled vodka (We used Finlandia)
1 ½ oz. Champagne (We used Korbel)
¾ oz. Black Raspberry Liqueur (We used Chambord)
Sugar
Red food coloring
Wax vampire teeth (Optional)

Preparation
Rim a martini glass with sugar dipped in red food color. You can also drop in a set of wax vampire teeth for a real surprise. Pour vodka and half of black raspberry liqueur in martini glass. Top with champagne and pour the remaining black raspberry liqueur over the back of a spoon to make it float.

Best Halloween Booze: Jack-o-Lantern Punch

No Halloween festivity is complete without a scary Jack-o-Lantern to warn guests of what can happen if the devil takes captive of your soul. This year, change things up by serving a delish (or shall we say devilish) rum punch right inside a pumpkin. Originally designed by mixologist Phil Ward of Mayahuel in New York City, the Jack-o-Lantern Punch can be prepared at home and then taken to your Halloween destination for a special treat. It’s as easy as pumpkin pie! Best of all, the right rum can unite hints of caramel and vanilla notes with cloves and apple juice, making the Jack-o-Lantern the ultimate Halloween party punch.

Ingredients
2 oz. Rum (We used Flor De Caña 7-year Grand Reserve)
4 Sugar cubes
3 oz. Club soda
2 Whole cloves
1 Pinch of nutmeg
1 oz. Lemon juice
2 oz. Apple juice
Toasted pumpkin seeds
Apple Slices
Cinnamon sticks

Preparation
Dissolve the sugar cubes in 1 oz. of club soda. Muddle the cloves with the sugar cubes. After the sugar cubes and cloves dissolved, add the rest of the ingredients one at a time and stir as added. Then, add ice once all of the ingredients have been added and stirred. After that, stir the punch until it is chilled. Strain the punch into a glass, punch bowl, or carved out pumpkin depending on the size of the portion. Top punch with 2 oz. club soda and garnish with apple slices, cinnamon sticks, and pumpkin seeds.

Best Halloween Booze: Black Cat Martini

Now here is one kitty we wouldn’t mind passing by. While black cats have often been associated with bad luck, in some parts of the world they symbolize the opposite. With a drink like the Black Cat Martini, we can understand why. The Black Cat Martini is from Elegant Affairs, a five-star event planning service that works with countless celebrities and socialites. As a result, holding a Black Cat Martini means that you’re rich enough to host a star-studded Halloween bash that requires a password for admission. If you can’t even afford a white sheet to dress up as a ghost, no fear because this Black Cat will certainly make you feel lucky.

Ingredients
1 part Black vodka
1 part Chambord

Preparation
Shake ingredients over ice and strain into a martini glass.

Best Halloween Booze: Poisoned Apple

Double, double toil and trouble-that’s exactly what you should expect if you’re brave eno

Lindsay Lohan is Back on the “Avenue”

10/27/2009 8:11:00 AM

Shockingly enough, Lindsay Lohan has been staying out of trouble. According to the New York Post, Lohan is no longer persona non grata at Avenue. Earlier this year, she was banned from this location following a twitter incident involving Justin Timberlake potentially cheating on Jessica Biel.

This past week, she has hit Avenue twice. Sources say she was laying off the alcohol and even refusing free drinks. Apparently, Lohan has been sending emails and calls to the lounge’s management asking them to let her back in.

The History of Halloween

10/26/2009 11:00:00 AM

All Hollow’s Eve; Halloween as most know it today is a holiday that resonates with fear, excitement and morbidity. For most children, this ghoulish holiday is a chance for youngsters to journey deep into their imaginations, with the aide of makeup and costume, to become anything their little black hearts desire. All of this they do simply for the thrill of collecting candy anonymously from their neighbors (and leaving bags filled with dog excrement on the doorsteps of those unwilling to join in). For older ghouls, the parties abound and the chance to drop their inhibitions (and often clothing) is greeted with a combination of over-the-top sexually explicit garments inspired by everyday fantasies (naughty nurse, naughty police officer, etc.) and nightmare inspiring masks and costumes based on the latest and greatest Hollywood fright-fest in theatres (Saw VI debuts Halloween Day). No matter what your motivation or inspiration for your haunting hullabaloo, more likely than not you'll at least attempt to get into the mood in some way, shape or form.

But what is the inspiration for all of this Halloween fanfare? How long have people been running around in costumes, trying to scare (or seduce) other people? What is this fascination with death anyway? Well, to answer these questions we have to look wayyyy back into the annals of human history and see.

The Origins of Halloween

Our journey into the origins of the “celebration of scare” takes us back to the BC era. About the same time that Jesus was walking around scaring the Romans and Hebrews (for much different and more political reasons), a group of people known as the Celts inhabited the modern day United Kingdom (England, Ireland, Scotland, Wales).

On the last day of the Celtic year, October 31, the Celts believed that the barrier between the world of the living and the world of the dead was blurred long enough for the spirits of the dead to walk the earth. During this overwhelmingly spiritual day, known as Samhain, Celtic Druids would prophesize about the coming winter, a time that the Celts associated with death due to the severity of the winters that they endured. The people would then make huge bonfires where animal sacrifices would occur to celebrate these prophesies as well as appease the gods for their blessing of a safe winter. During these sacrificial events, the Celts would dress in animal skins and other costumes and attempt to tell the fortunes of others.

In 43 AD the Romans conquered the land that the Celts inhabited, and with it absorbed many of the cultural festivals that the Celts celebrated. Over the next 400 years, the celebration of the Celtic Samhain would be combined with Feralia, a Roman holiday commemorating the dead, typically celebrated in October.

As the spread of Christianity came to the Celtic lands around 800 A.D. the pope would declare November 1 to be All Saints Day, which was known in Middle English (as descendent of Gaelic and Celtic language) as Alholowmesse or all Hallowmas. The night before became known as All Hallows Eve, which eventually evolved into Halloween.

Halloween Traditions

Halloween is a holiday that carries with it very specific and completely recognizable traditions. From dressing up and trick-or-treating to bobbing for apples, the fun of the holiday often overshadows the traditions that they were born upon. Like the holiday itself, these traditions come from a very sorted and celebrated past that should not be forgotten. Trick-or-treating, for example, stems from the medieval celebration of All Souls Day, the day after All Saints day, when Christian followers would celebrate loved ones who have passed on into purgatory to wait for their judgment and hopefully get into heaven. Traditionally on All Souls Day, children would go door-to-door "souling" asking for “soul cakes," a simple bread cake made especially for the holiday. For every cake that was collected, the children would offer a prayer for the souls of the bakers' loved ones to help them move into heaven.

Bobbing for Apples, another Halloween tradition, comes to us from the original absorption of Halloween into Roman Culture. Annually, Romans would honor Pomona, the Roman goddess of fruit and trees. The apple, Pomona's symbol, was then incorporated into other Celtic traditions and eventually evolved into the tradition celebrated today.

Whether you are celebrating the scariest holiday of the year with candy or cocktails, remember that any holiday is more interesting when you know its origins to begin with! Happy Halloween!

Research compiled from History.com as well as howstuffworks.com.

Diddy to Host Exclusive Event

10/26/2009 9:52:00 AM

Tonight M2 Ultra Lounge is producing the hottest event of the year. This event is so extraordinary that the only person special enough to host it is Diddy.

That’s right; Diddy will be hosting the Exclusive Black Diamond Red Carpet Affair. This night of elegance will have an open bar till midnight and has no cover. The theme is “All Black Everything,” so make sure that you dress the part. The dress code is strict.

If you're thinking that Diddy will be the only celebrity to make an appearance, then you’re wrong. DJ Cassidy along with his friends DJ S & S and DJ Get On Up will be spinning all night long.

Be sure to get on our guest list today to be a part of this awesome evening.

Your Ultimate Halloween Party Guide

10/25/2009 3:00:00 PM

Halloween is officially around the corner people, and we certainly hope you’ve already decided on what you’ll be wearing. One thing for sure is, even though you may not know what you’ll be doing on Halloween night, we’re here to help you out and give you the options you need to create your own Halloween night agenda. The majority of clubs and bars hosting an event on Halloween night, so we scoured through each event and have chosen the top Halloween weekend parties happening in your city. If you don’t have any plans just yet, we suggest checking one of these out, and we guarantee you’ll have a memorable holiday this year.

:: : NEW YORK CITY : ::

Top Halloween Party in New York City: Webster Hell Halloween Party 2009 @ Webster Hall

Known as the country’s first modern nightclub, Webster Hall is known for throwing crazy and intricate parties. This Halloween, Webster Hell , is going to be the biggest party in the city. Webster Hall is spending the entire month of October transforming its legendary landmark building into a spooky Halloween play land. The Virgin Sacrifice has become a Webster Hell tradition. Witness the virgin sacrifice ritual in honor of awakening the Demon Queen. All shall bow to the beautiful Demon Queen and her sexy Demonic Dancers as they emerge from their dark slumber. In addition to the night of spooky yet entertaining night, Joby Rogers, the world’s best Michael Jackson impersonator, will be performing some of Michael’s greatest hits. Get your tickets now because this event will sell out fast!
Click here for more info and tickets.

Top Halloween Party in New York City: A Haunted Carnival Halloween 2009 @ Carnival

Step right up and spend Halloween night at Carnival, the largest and probably only circus-themed Halloween party in NYC. This magical event is set to take you back to the Coney Island boardwalk with a touch of style only found in Manhattan. Carnival is located right above Bowlmor Lanes and is the perfect place if you’re looking for an extravagant yet distorted evening. Tickle your taste buds with a caramel apple martinis or an alcoholic snow cone.
Click here for more info and tickets.

Top Halloween Party in New York City: Halloween Pub Crawl 2009

If you’re having trouble picking a party or two for Halloween weekend, then the Halloween Pub Crawl is perfect for you. Leave the decisions behind and chose to crawl around to over 100 bars. This year’s pub crawl is even bigger than ever. With three days of partying, you can’t go wrong. Break out your best costumes and be sure to leave room for the Pumpkin Ale, Halloween Cocktails, Boo Light and many other drinks provided at these hot spots. Come be part of what the Guinness Book of World Records named the Largest Pub Crawl in the World!
Click here for more info and tickets.

Top Halloween Party in New York City: Halloween Masquerade Ball hosted by Jill Zarin @ Bryant Park Grill

What’s better than a Masquerade Ball in NYC? How about a Masquerade Ball with a celebrity guest? If that’s the kind of party you’re looking for, then pick up your Bryant Park Grill Halloween tickets today. This event isn’t only hosted by STADJ’s hottest DJs Sabrina and Chris Landy, but it features Real Housewives of NYC star Jill Zarin. Come dressed to impress and bring your masks along to this chic event.
Click here for more info and tickets.

Top Halloween Party in New York City: Halloween Party 2009 brought to you by Alize @ BLVD

BLVD’s Halloween extravaganza has a lot to offer. Hosted by Alize, this trendy and fashionable spot has everything you want in a Halloween party, including an hour long open bar that you don’t want to miss. Supa DJ Peter Parker from the Alize Mix Squad will be playing your favorite hits all night long. Come dressed to impress this Halloween at BLVD.
Click here for more info and tickets.

:: : LAS VEGAS : ::

Top Halloween Party in Las Vegas: HalloweenParties.com presents Se7en Sexy Sins @ Luxor Las Vegas

Watch the original seven deadly sins come to life at the Luxor Las Vegas’ Se7en Sexy Sins party. Their unique twist on the seven sins is sure to lower your inhibitions enough to get buck wild for the night. Savor delicious Halloween cocktails from IS Vodka and fresh beer from Samuel Adams while enjoying Go-Go dancers in full seven sins get-up and the sounds of Red Bull DJs Madam Malixa ad DJ Miss Joy. And if you’re on a budget this year, look no further, tickets are only $15. This is one of the sexiest and best-priced Vegas Halloween events.
Click here for more info and tickets.

Top Halloween Party in Las Vegas: Night of the Killer Costumes III @ Playboy Club

What’s a sexy Halloween party without a Playboy bunny or three or five? If Halloween is your favorite holidays solely because of your very competitive when it comes to “clever” costumes, the Palms is where you want to be all night. The Night of Killer Costumes III is hosting the best and biggest Halloween costume contest in Sin City with more than $100,000 in cash and prizes being offered at all four of the Palms’ venues. The Playboy club is hosting its own competition as part of the Palms’ Night of Killer Costumes competition.
Click here for more info and Katwalk Bar & Lounge

Located in the heart of the Fashion District, Katwalk is one of those swanky places that you don’t want to pass up. The venue is filled with large plasma screens and projectors that play all the hottest music videos, fashion shows, and sports. There is an open bar every Monday-Wednesday from 6-8 p.m. That’s right for only $15 your get your choice of beer, wine and premium liquor. Thursday night is ladies night, which makes it feel like happy hour all night long. Happy hour includes drink specials from 3 p.m. till close.

Plan B

How can you go wrong with a venue that serves up at 50% off daily 4-hour cocktail hour? Plan B opened in 2004 and has quickly become a favorite in the East Village. The main lounge area has set a stage for groups who come to mingle and dance while the two private rooms host parties and events. Unlimited tequila shots are on the house from 9-10 p.m. and any day of the week a party of two or more can call ahead and arrange for an open bar.

The Upper Deck

The Upper Deck is located in Midtown. It’s not exactly a nightclub but needed to be on the list because it has great drink specials that everyone should know about. Every day of the week is something different. Mondays and Fridays from 6-9 p.m. you have beers for $3, well-drinks for $4 and martinis for $5. Tuesdays you have 12 hours of free pool and $3 bud lights. Wednesdays is the same as Monday except that the specials last all night. Thursday night, which is college night, offers $20.00 open bar for 2 hours. Saturday offers a three hour open bar for $30 and of course, who can forget Sunday Funday. On Sunday Funday you can enjoy a five hour open bar for only $40. With these kinds of deals, any night is a good night at The Upper Deck.

Bar 4

Actually located in Park Slope, Brooklyn, Bar 4 offers up an any day of the week happy hour special that will keep you coming back for more. $15 unlimited PBR’s and Yeunglings are yours any time of the day. You also have the option of paying $20 dollars which will get you a day-long beerfest. During this time, you also can play unlimited amounts of Pac Man. I know that this isn’t the ideal New York hotspot but it offers up good drinking deals.

New Club Provocateur at The Gansevoort Hotel Now Hiring

10/23/2009 1:25:00 PM

A chic staple of NYC’s Meatpacking district, The Gansevoort Hotel now ventures to launch a new club in the space its old garden lounge once occupied. Provocateur, which is set to open in late November/ early December is comprised of two distinct nightlife settings: Provocateur Café and Provocateur Nightclub, both designed by Lionel Ohayon (Koi, STK, Hyde, W Hotels).

Interested in becoming a part of this new, sure-to-be hip scene? Well now is your chance because Provocateur is looking for waitresses, bartenders and bus staff to work at their Lounge and Cafe!

There will be open calls for interested parties on Thursday October 29th and Friday October 30th from 12:00pm - 6:00pm both days. Interviews will be held at The Gansevoort's corporate office located at 137 Varick Street, Suite 403.
*Note: Interviews will be held at Provocateur's corporate office - NOT at the hotel.

Email jobs@provocateurny.com for more information. No phone calls please.

CMJ '09 Music Marathon & Film Festival

10/22/2009 11:44:00 AM

Drawing crowds of over 120,000 fans, artists and filmmakers from around the globe, the 2009 CMJ Music Marathon & Film Festival invades New York City for five full days this week. From Tuesday October 20th through Saturday October 24th (or Sunday at noon, according to the official schedule) music-lovers of all genres unite at performances, discussions and workshops around the city. In its 29th year, CMJ’s Music Marathon continues its legacy of “rocking with the best,” packing quality musicians and devoted fans into some of New York’s most legendary venues.

CMJ’s 15-year-old Film Festival may seem young in comparison, but don’t be fooled – the event has transformed numerous underground films into Oscar-winners and box-office gems in the mere decade and a half it’s been around. This year’s music highlights include rapper Busta Rhymes (B.B. King’s, 11pm on Thursday), LCD Soundsystem’s James Murphy (Brooklyn Bowl, 8pm on Thursday) and TV on the Radio’s Kyp Malone with his Rain Machine solo project (Bowery Ballroom, 12am on Sunday) among others. To see a complete schedule of concerts and events, check out the CMJ Music Marathon & Film Festival’s official website.

In addition to each day’s concerts and showings, the festival will showcase a handful of special events, shining an intimate and educational light on this week full of eclectic sights and sounds.

CMJ - Paradigm! @ Mercury Lounge
We can always count on CMJ to provide their loyal followers with free music (at least, in this case, after midnight). Come party at Mercury Lounge with Sean Bones, Local Natives, Hockey, Ambulance LTD, Alec Ounsworth (of Clap Your Hands Say Yeah), Patrick Watson & JBM. DJ Dave Godowsky will be there to perform between sets to ensure a night without a single gap in the playlist. For more information, click here.

CMJ ’09 Party w/ Eve To Adam, Blood Street & more @ Santos Party House
Santos Party House: the name says it all. CMJ picked the right place to rage and just the right soundtrack, with music by Eve to Adam, Blood Street, The Bleeding Bombshells, Sleepwalkas & Pui and Krista. Special guests Bras and DJ Johnny Famous will also be crashing the house party. For more information, click here.

CMJ: Music From Ireland Showcase @ Bowery Poetry Club
CMJ’s unbiased attention to all types of music is what makes this festival unlike any other in the world. This year, CMJ has chosen five bands to play in a special “Music from Ireland” showcase – but leave your clogs at home – you won’t be dancing any traditional Irish jigs at this show. Hooray for Humans, a pop/electro/death metal group from Cork, take the stage alongside the Heathers, Giveamanakick, The Blizzards and Fighting with Wire in a full night of appreciation for Irish music. For more information, click here.

CMJ '09 Spotlight: Emmanuel Jal @ The Kimmel Center, NYU
An up-close and personal spotlight on Sudanese hip-hop artist Emmanuel Jal as he shares his first-hand experience of being a child soldier for a rebel army in Sudan. The artist, who has just finished recording his third album, WARchild, speaks about his dedication to achieving social justice globally and his attempt to impart that message personally, through music. This special event will explore today’s injustices in Darfur, as Jal recounts his own heroic navigation and insatiable drive to “rap for freedom.” For more information, click here.

CMJ '09 Spotlight: HAIR @ The Kimmel Center, NYU
“Let the Sun Shine In” and experience HAIR, winner of the 2009 Tony Award for the Best Revival of a Musical, with an enlightening discussion led by Oskar Eustis (Artistic Director of the Public Theater), Galt MacDermot (Composer of HAIR) and Jim Rado (Writer and Co-creator of HAIR. Stick around for a special performance from Gavin Creel, one of the stars of Hair, as he performs scenes from the production. A limited number of tickets to the full show, now playing at the Al Hirschfeld Theatre, will be available at the registrant bag booth at CMJ’s Exhibit Hall (10th floor of NYU’s Kimmel Center, 60 Washington Square South). For more information, click here.

CMJ '09 Spotlight: Taking Back The Acoustic Performance ft. Fred Mascherino @ The Kimmel Center, NYU
Taking Back Sunday’s Fred Mascherino escapes his typical arena scene for this special event, playing a more intimate show and leading an informal discussion on his experience with the modern music industry and beyond. Mascherino shares stories of his success in multiple artistic endeavors and will enlighten the audience to his multifaceted career through both words and music. For more information, click here.

Mexican Summer/Kemado CMJ Showcase @ Music Hall of Williamsburg
CMJ knows what all hipsters want: cheap beer, below-the-radar bands and all of this at a venue in Brooklyn. Hop on that L train and check out some bands you may have never heard of like the Young Prisms (who don’t even have a MySpace), The Amazing (with members of Dungen), Real Estate, Farmer Dave Scher and Smith Westerns. If you subscribe to CMJ and get the low-down on great indie bands from their monthly CD inserts, you may want to see what this show is all about. For more information, click here.

Rain Machine (Kyp Malone of TV On The Radio) Sharon Van Etten, Violens & Imaad Wasif @ Bowery Ballroom
Guitarist-singer Kyp Malone of TV On The Radio embarks on a new solo project: Rain Machine. For some reason the name conjures up an image of a didgeridoo player somewhere on Venice Beach, but with TV On The Radio’s complex, genre-breaking sound, that possibility seems very unlikely. Press releases say Rain Machine’s sound incorporates elements of modern jazz and bluegrass, but after listening to the song “Give Blood,” infused with Malone’s standard high-pitched trills, Rain Machine, like TVOTR, seems to be in a category of its own. The show will also include performances by Sharon Van Etten, Violen

Witness History in the Making at Sapphire

10/22/2009 10:45:00 AM

This weekend Sapphire New York is giving you a chance to get as close to the ring as possible. They will be showing the Ultimate Fighting Championship: UFC 104 on the big screen. Come out and see the World Light Heavyweight Championship.

The event features Machida vs. Shogun plus a heavyweight showdown between Velazquez vs. Rothwell. Instead of being copped up in your house watching the fight on your tiny TV, head out to Sapphire. Don’t forget to enjoy a beer or two during the game.

24-Hour Seduction: The Hill NYC

10/20/2009 1:54:00 PM

The Hill, located on Third Ave, is a cross between a sports bar and a lounge. It’s the perfect place to watch your favorite team or lounge around in a candlelit setting while sipping on mojitos and martinis.

By day, The Hill serves up breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner. You can choose from typical bar food like sliders and wings to classier dishes like salads and fondue. They also have a delicious dessert menu, including pressed s’mores made to satisfy your sweet tooth.

By night, the bar is packed out with city locals looking to have a good time. When the game ends, the party starts. Music is played throughout the venue so that you can dance the night away. Bottle service is offered and you can even book a private party on the second floor balcony fully equip with a private bar.

The Hill also features specialty drinks such as the Key Lime Kid Martini, which is filled with Vanilla vodka, fresh key lime and pineapple juice, served with a graham cracker rim and a lime wedge and the Turkey Smash, which includes wild turkey honey whiskey, muddled lemon, simple syrup, mint leaves and a splash of soda. Pitchers of mojitos and sangria are also available.

The venue itself has a seductive feel with its dark colors and lighting. It comes off as the perfect date spot where you can settle on a romantic meal and the game highlights. The paneling on the walls gives you a modern yet cozy feel. It is one of the classiest sports bars around.

The Hill has something for everyone whether you’re looking for yummy snacks, homemade drinks or up to date sports scores. This is definitely one place worth stopping by for.

Beer for a Buck or Less

10/19/2009 8:53:00 AM

Manhattan is known for its expensive taste. Going out for dinner or attending weekly happy hours could get pricey. It’s a good thing that there are a few places that offer cheap drink deals. Although most of these deals only last for a few hours a day, it’s still good to know that they actually exist.

Pat O’Briens is a famous Irish bar that is located all over. On Fridays, the bar offers up an hour long special that you can’t refuse. From 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., 25 cent beers are available. That’s right, a beer will only cost a quarter. This is one deal that should not be passed up.

Another great place if you’re looking for a dollar menu special is Singas Famous Pizza. Not only is the pizza appealing but so is the beer. The pizza served here is not the traditional triangles. Singas features round 10 inch pies. With their famous pizza comes a beer special. From 11 a.m.-5 p.m., beers are only a buck. What’s better than having your own pizza with a side of dollar beers? And for those big spenders out there, pitchers are only $5.

Be sure to check out these great deals.

Gossip Gangster Hosts Club Purgatorio’s Opening

10/16/2009 2:00:00 PM

Halloween in New York City is officially kicking off tomorrow night. The hottest ticket in town is going to be Club Purgatorio. Why? Well, Hollywood’s most hated blogger, Perez Hilton, will be hosting the sexy soiree. Hilton took to Twitter this morning to announce the news to his NYC fans: “Hey, NYC! I'm gonna be in town tomorrow night to host the opening of Purgatorio…Hope to see y'all there! Xoxo”

Unless they’ve been living under a rock, New Yorkers know Club Purgatorio is a top Halloween destination in 2009. This vaudeville-meets-fetish-and-fantasy event will feature the hottest DJs along with a variety of interactive acts, as well as a self-described “museum of Halloween oddities.” Combine all this with the fierceness that is Perez Hilton, and Saturday night at Club Purgatorio will be HO-rrifically hot.

For Club Purgatorio tickets and information, and a ton of other Halloween events, visit HalloweenParties.com, and make sure you kick off the Halloween season the right way!

STADJ Goes Bond at Tenjune

10/16/2009 10:02:00 AM

Last Saturday, Tenjune, located in the Meatpacking District, was invaded by five of America’s most eligible bachelors, along with some of the hottest DJs from STADJ Music. STADJ is known for their unique program and agency services. They have booked DJs for hundreds of nightlife events. Odds are that you have seen them around.

The full name of the event was STADJ Goes Bond for Attica's 007 Black Tie Event. The James Bond-themed party housed DJs such as DJ Sabrina and founder DJ EM who are both known for their crazy mixes. The highlight of the event, however, was the bachelors that were featured in Gotham Magazine. The bachelors, Matthew Slosek, David Sparks, Michael Weinstock, Gary Whitehill, and Tom Guy, were all seen having a great time.

Made Event presents Halloween Bash with Above & Beyond

10/15/2009 3:09:00 PM

Halloweenparties.com is bringing you one of the hottest and most anticipated Halloween parties this year. On Saturday, October 31st, make sure you’re at the Made Event Halloween Bash. Made Event, the team behind Electric Zoo, bring you the ultimate Halloween Bash. For those unfortunate few who do not know what Electric Zoo is, it’s the biggest Electronic Music Festival that has ever been held in New York City, featuring the world’s top DJs. Made Event is now bringing their own Halloween event to the city, which is also the Above & Beyond Anjunabeats Volume 7 release party and Fedde Le Grand Output Album release party. The event will be held at Roseland Ballroom, located at 239 West 52nd Street. Just like Electric Zoo, this Halloween Bash will present some of the best DJs in the world.

So if you want to spend your Halloween this year listening to the worlds best DJs and dancing the night away, make sure you go to HalloweenParties.com and purchase your tickets to the Made Event Halloween Bash. Don’t forget to come dressed in your favorite Halloween costume!

The 36th Annual Halloween Parade Comes to NYC

10/15/2009 1:33:00 PM

This year marks the 36th annual Halloween Parade located in New York’s Greenwich Village. Starting at 7 p.m. 6th Ave will be taken over by puppets, musicians, dancers, artists and thousands of New Yorker’s dressed in costume. Fantastic and frightening creatures will walk the night. The parade extends from Spring Street to 21st Street and will last until 10 p.m.

The Greenwich Village parade is the largest public Halloween event in the United States. It all started in the 1970’s when Halloween was a very important event in the village. It was a time when the gay community was prohibited against wearing clothing of the opposite sex. Halloween was the one day of the year that they could dress how they wanted. It is based on this tradition that the parade has been built.

One of the most popular featured events of the parade is the puppet show. In 1973, mask maker and puppeteer Ralph Lee staged a wandering neighborhood puppet show to entertain the children in the village. After the second year of the show, an organization called Theater for the New City made the show into a formal march, which soon became the parade that we now know and love.

Greenwich Village, in particular, is home to its own brand of bohemian, exotic and erotic costumes. The costumes that are worn in the parade are limitless. They differ from the typical witches, goblins and ghosts that you usually see on Halloween. Shown in all colors, shapes and sizes, the costumes are what make the parade unique.

Not only is this event listed in the book “100 Things to do Before You Die”, it was named “The Greatest Event on Earth” by Festivals International for October 31.

So when you find yourself bored on Halloween night before you head to the bar, head down to the village because this is one event that you don’t want to miss.

The Nightlife Checklist: What to Check Off When You Go Out

10/15/2009 11:46:00 AM

As denizens of the Nightlife Universe, we all know that there are many different circumstances that will continually change when we set out into the night in search of the perfect venue and crowd to give us our much needed evening fix. Although we cant control everything that’s going to happen, the old adage of “Plan for the worst but hope for the best,” comes to mind. Positive intention, planning, and a little bit of consideration before the great journey begins will surely enhance the night, and leave little chance of that dreaded failure of an evening. So what do we do to make sure things go as smoothly as possible? Make a plan! These pre-game rituals are as necessary as the cheap booze you will be guzzling down so that you don’t have to pay $7 for a Jack and Coke at the bar, and twice as useful when things go a bit awry and unpredictable! I submit for your approval, The Ultimate Nightlife Pre-Game Checklist!

1. Eat your favorite food – In order to create the perfect mood for the night ahead, we must indulge in the perfect fuel for the night. Pick up something that will fill your stomach with the necessary sponge to soak up that alcohol later so that your night won’t end with you face first praying to the porcelain God. Eat something that will make you smile. A good mood is what we are promoting here, and it all begins with your stomach.

2. Take a 45 minute relaxation period – Give yourself a few minutes to just settle down, collect your thoughts, and relax! Take a quick powernap or catch up with some music. Do whatever it is you do to get yourself in the zone, positive intention will carry over into the night and having no hurried or creeping thoughts will surely make for an amazing transition into the night!

3. Take the best shower you’ve ever had – Part of setting the mood for yourself and those you want to impress is by making yourself as visually stimulating as possible! Give yourself the royal treatment, and spare any expense in the cleansing process. Also don’t forget the cologne. Not surprisingly the better you smell the more you will be attractive and remembered. Don’t go too heavy however, you don’t want to be mistaken for a French whore.

4. Dress to the 9’s – Dress accordingly for wherever you’re going, but make sure to put a few style points into your wardrobe. Whether you ride the vintage train, or are up on the latest and greatest, make sure what you’re throwing on is clean, pressed and stylish. Be yourself! Just the best version.

5. Perfectly tailored play-list – Like a good suit, the perfect soundtrack will only enhance your night out, and your mood. Don’t leave it to chance that the radio might have a great procession of songs to push the night to the next level. Create an atmosphere that will invigorate your senses and put you in the best possible mood. This will always carry over to the venue.

6. Charge your cell phone – Keep connected. The worst thing that can happen is a dead battery at the wrong time. Don’t leave it to possibility, especially if you’ve been texting all day trying to get the plans secured to begin with.

7. Always have cash on hand – It’s always better to know what you’re getting yourself into and setting at least a semi reasonable budget before you hit the club. Nothing sobers you up like an unexpected $300 tab at the end of the night, especially if you’ve only got $200 left on the card. Avoid the embarrassment and hit the ATM before you get there. PS. It never hurts to hide a $20 dollar bill somewhere on you, incase the worst happens and you need a reserve to go to. Need a night cap? Condoms? Emergency Mickey D’s fund? Hide some cash in your sock.

8. Have a Plan B. – There is never a worse circumstance than to be all dressed up with no where to go. If you were absolutely positive that Johnny Wong’s party was going on and the bouncer tells you that he doesn’t really care who you are or who you think you know, you’re not getting in, all will seem lost. Always have an ace up your sleeve and a second, just as exciting, destination incase you can’t talk your way into that party (or even more likely the party sucks to begin with).

9. Have a designated driver – What’s the worst way to end your night out on the town after everything has gone off without a hitch? Seeing the flashing blue lights blurred so confusingly in your rearview as an officer knocks on your window and asks the dreaded question, “Have you been drinking tonight?” as your life, career, tuition, and personal humiliation flash before your eyes, you’d wish you weren’t behind the wheel. Worse yet, your drunk ass could hurt someone else while you’re reaching for that iPod that fell on the floorboard and all you hear is the scream of the old lady walking across the street one second before you feel the thud of her walker under your tires. Do the right thing. Take a friend out to dinner and beg them to lay off the sauce. You’ll return the favor soon enough.

Pub Crawl for the Record Books

10/15/2009 10:34:00 AM

Everyone loves a good Pub Crawl. You can’t go wrong when you’re wandering the streets, hopping from bar to bar. It’s the ultimate party. After being named in the Guinness Book of World Records for the largest Pub Crawl in the world, you know that this is one event worth waking up for.

The best part of all this is that you have three days of crawling. That’s right, you can choose to be part of the pub crawling fun on Friday, Saturday or Sunday. You can even crawl around all three days if you wanted too. There will six different spots to start from then the rest is up to you.

So come and enjoy three days, five miles, and over 100 bars of Halloween Pub Crawling fun. Don’t forget your costumes.

Top Brooklyn Hangouts

10/14/2009 2:21:00 PM

When tourists come to New York, they usually settle in a snazzy venue while looking for places to sightsee. When they picture their dream vacation to NYC, they seem to forget about all the other boroughs.

New Yorkers work in similar way. They don’t necessarily forget about the other boroughs, but when they are looking for a night on the town, the city is the first thing that comes to mind.

What everyone needs to realize is that there are fun venues and events to attend in the other boroughs Brooklyn for example is moving up in the nightlife world. Brooklyn has distinct culture and unique heritage. It houses some great spots for a night out.

As a fellow Brooklynite, definitely take my word and check out these venues.

Brooklyn Brewery

It you’re looking for fresh brewed beer in the New York area, then this is the place to be. Pretty self explanatory I know, but there aren’t a lot of places around quite like the Brooklyn Brewery. This brewery offers top of the line beer, and provides tours of the venue. With 8 different types of beer it gets hard to choose, but then again why not try them all. Happy hour is every Friday from 6-10pm and beers are only $4 each.

Brooklyn Bowl

Located in Williamsburg, Brooklyn Bowl is more than just a bowling alley. It’s a nightlife institution. With live music, famous DJs and good food, you can’t go wrong. It’s the type of place where you can bowl a couple games then head to the bar and dance the night away. They are open till 2am during the week and 4am on the weekends; however, those of you under 21 can only visit the venue from Noon-6pm on Saturdays.

Sea

Sea is a spacious Thai restaurant, also located in Williamsburg. The atmosphere itself is filled with dark colors, water fountains, disco lights and even bubble swings. The bar is located right in the center of the huge restaurant. Sea is a great place to have dinner or even just go for the bar. Some see it as an overcrowded tourist trap, but the truth is with good food and good drink, why not check it out.

Salty Dog

Located in Bay Ridge, Salty Dog is a bar/restaurant in a firehouse setting. They serve up more than bar food featuring prime rib and daily fish specials. At night, the bar is hopping with a young crowd looking to have a good time. They are also the only place in Brooklyn to house the The Kilkenny Irish Beer Chilling System, which is a state of the art system that delivers Ice Cold tap beer to all of their 18 domestic and imported lines.

Take a Walk on the Wild Side at Club Purgatorio

10/14/2009 10:05:00 AM

Tomorrow night marks the start of the first night of Nightmare Meets Nightlife at Club Purgatorio. For the next 16 days, Purgatorio will be bringing you an interactive Halloween experience that you can’t find anywhere else.

The 21 and over variety show is sure to make all your fantasies come true. Club Purgatorio is a mix between nightlife and erotic nightmares. Each level of the venue will have different themes set to fulfill all your needs.

The event will feature typical nightlife aspects like drinking and dancing, but with a twist. Tickets range from $39.99-$59.99 and VIP tickets are available.

So dig up your devil’s horns and buy your tickets today because this is one event that you don’t want to miss.

To get your tickets, click here.

It Takes Two: BLVD and Crash Mansion NYC

10/13/2009 2:09:00 PM

Downtown Manhattan is huge when it comes to nightlife. The streets are swarmed with tourists and New Yorkers fighting for a spot on the line of their favorite clubs. One place in particular that always seems to have a line out the door is BLVD.

Located on Bowery Street, BLVD features a world-class restaurant, classy nightclub, and even a stage for live music. Open from 6 p.m.-4 a.m., BLVD is a great place for dinner, or to dance the night away.

The main area provides a spacious lounge and premium bar. The red and brown designs leave for home-like feel and the dull lights make for an intimate setting.

Directly across from the bar are strategically placed couches around the dance floor. Behind the stage, there is a large party room for VIPs and private parties. This is where you will find bottle and table service.

If you’re not up for a classy setting, head over to Crash Mansion, which is the venue located underneath BLVD. It is the perfect place to chill out with live music and if you’re lucky, you might walk into a record release party.

Crash Mansion at BLVD presents local and seasoned musicians. Aside for the loud music, Crash also gives off an intimate setting with its lounge-like area surrounding the dance floor.

‘Crash’ is also the spot where Fearless Music is taped. Fearless Music is a TV show that is on Saturday night’s on FOX. All of the acts are taped at the local New York spot.

Being on a guest list is usually essential for these places. Cover can be pretty pricey if you’re not. But when it comes down to it, a good time is guaranteed at both places. Who knows some of the bands that you see might be on the road to fame, and you can say you saw them way back when.

Although similar, the two bars generally have different crowds. Crash Mansion, because of the music choice, usually have more a punk crowd where as BLVD has more of those fancy party goers looking for a good time.

Whether you’re looking for a sit down dinner or a crazy night on the town, BLVD and Crash Mansion are NYC hot spots that you want to be seen at.

Last Halloween at Tavern on the Green

10/13/2009 1:46:00 PM

"Halloween on the Green" is one of the hottest parties to attend this Halloween season. Tavern on the Green is going all out this year being that it will be their last Halloween party.

Free food and drinks will be provided all night at the outdoor tents and yes, the tents will be heated. Inside, you have a choice of hopping around 6 rooms looking for the best crowd. There will be a costume contest with cash prizes and some extra giveaways.

Tavern on the Green is known for their great parties, so this is one event that you don’t want to miss. Be sure to show up on time being that this event will be sold out and don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled for the celebrity host.

To get your tickets, click here.

The Beer Garden Invasion Comes to Nightlife

10/12/2009 1:14:00 PM

Beer garden has become a generic term for open-air areas where beer is served. Many places, especially New York have jumped on the beer garden trend.

One of the most famous beer gardens in New York is located in Astoria, Queens. Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden was made for summer days but is still inviting during the fall and winter. The bar is very welcoming and it’s definitely a good time. It’s the perfect place to kick back and relax with a couple of beers.

Beer gardens in Manhattan are similar. The Standard Beer Garden located at The Standard Hotel. It is an expansion of the Standard Grill. Ping Pong tables are located in the back for a taste of how beer pong is really played.

Beer gardens are growing in the nightlife industry and are sure to be a huge success.

Clubplanet’s How To: Throw a Proper Halloween Party

10/9/2009 5:08:00 PM

Halloween is just around the corner people, meaning you need to start decided A) what to wear, and B) what the hell you’re going to do! If you’re nightlife fanatics like us, you’ve probably already starting looking for the best parties at a nightclub, bar or lounge near you. But, there are also many of us who opt to stay inside. That’s why we’re here to help you. Don’t spend your Halloween indoors where kids will stop at nothing, pounding on your door, to get your candy. Instead, try throwing a kick ass Halloween bash! But there are certain things you need to be aware of prior to announcing your party, and we’re here to provide you with the ultimate Halloween Party Checklist. Get a pencil and paper out and prepare to take notes.

Decide On Your Costume Early On

One of the most important things you have to do when it comes to Halloween is decide what you’re going to dress up as. A Halloween costume is super important and will probably be one of the toughest decisions when it comes to your Halloween party checklist. After all, you do have to dress up if you’re going to throw a Halloween party. The last thing your guests want to see if their host wearing his usual jeans and t-shirt getup. For a Halloween party you really have to be unique. Why? Because you’re the host and you need to stick out to everyone! Try shying away from traditional costumes like vampires, werewolves, devils, angels, things that are common. Try to be unique and either A) create your own costume, or B) stick with something that may cost you a lot of money, chances are no one will have this costume and you’ll be the only one in the party wearing it. Remember, you want people saying, “Oh you’re looking for the host? It’s the only guy dressed as ________.”

Decorate Your House to The Fullest

Of course, when it comes to throwing a proper Halloween party, the most important aspect is decoration. Don’t just decide to throw a ‘Halloween Party,’ and have a bunch of drunken dressed up fools show up at your doorstep and walk in, only having them find your normal digs. Turn your pad into a dungeon, a layer, a ghost house. This is your chance to be creative and impress. Remember, the better the decoration, the bigger of an impression you leave on your guests, meaning they’ll definitely show up for future parties.

Inside Decoration

When it comes to decorating your house for a Halloween Party the inside is obviously more important than the outside. Remember to stick with dark and spooky colors. The last thing you want is to make the place looks like an 80s prom. Fake cobwebs, black streamers, and plenty of black balloons. Right now it may seem like the black balloons seems a little corny, but if you fill around one to 200 of them with helium, next thing you know you have a black ceiling, and that’s something that’s very eye-catching. Halloween parties are all about setting a mood, and the mood you want to set should ALWAYS be a dark one. Also, remember to take down any posters, portraits and framed pictures of you and your granny. You really want to have people believing that they’re somewhere else, not at Joe Shmoes house.

Outside Decoration

Although you already know that decorating the inside of your house for your Halloween party is more important than decorating the outside of it, the outside is also crucial. Remember, you want to draw people in to the party. If they pull up in their cars to what looks like your normal pad, they’ll already start doubting the party. Put up signs, fake skeletons, skulls, cobwebs and most importantly fake blood on the steps leading up to the house. That will already have the guests to your Halloween party thinking, “Ok, now we’re in for something.” But remember, what’s going on inside HAS to be better than what’s going on outside. You don’t want people hanging out outside, you want them inside, where the real Halloween party is.

Smoke Machine

One very important piece of advice that we’ll give you is, if you can get your hands on a smoke machine, rented or not, get it! Smoke machines will really turn up the aesthetics of the Halloween party, giving it that spooky misty feel of a dream. You can either go with two forms of liquid for the smoke machine. The normal foggy smoke will fill up the air and at times can really make it hard to see what’s in front of you, adding more to the scary feel of the Halloween party. But then there’s the fog that sits low on the ground. Now this will set you back a little bit more, but it will give the Halloween party guests the feeling that they’re in a cemetery.

Halloween Cocktails Are Essential

If you’re going to a Halloween party, of course you’re going to expect there to be some drinks. But instead of opting for the traditional keg, why not make something that will interest the ladies as well. That’s why you need to concoct your own special Halloween cocktail. Try making a fruity red punch that’s super spiked, but has the look of blood. Make a giant bowl of it and throw in a few fake eyeballs, some plastic spiders, things that will really give your Halloween party that extra edge. The guys won’t think much of it, but the girls will love the cutesy thought, and enjoy the punch even more. Don’t get us wrong though, you should definitely still get the keg and numerous bottles of liquor. You never know when you’ll need more ammo.

Create a Soundtrack for the Party

When everyone thinks of a party, then automatically think of dancing and drinking. But when you think of a Halloween party, the music needs to take on a whole new persona. Try creating a special mix or soundtrack for the party. You know what we mean, throw in classics like Thriller, Monster Mash, Ghost Busters, and Paint It Black by the Rolling Stones. The entire soundtrack doesn’t have to be strictly Halloween tracks, but you should definitely get these on there to liven up the mood and theme of your Halloween party.

The Extremely Important Halloween Invitation

Ok, so now you have everything in mind for your kick ass Halloween party, your costume, decorating your house, the Halloween beverages and Halloween songs to go with it. Last but not least comes the invitation. You want this to be a Halloween themed invite. If you want to be cheesy but funny, stick with the kiddie invites you can buy at your local Target. But if you want to be unique, try printing out your own invites but putting your own twist on it. Try using a special type of printing paper (rice paper) and thick red ink or finger paint. If you use red finger paint it’ll give the impression that it’s been drawn in by a man’s fingers covered in blood. That’s pretty unique and will add even more to the overall Halloween party points.

Be Specific

When it comes to your invite remember to be specific. Let them know that this is a “Costume Party,” and whether or not they need to pay a fee for the booze ($5 is pretty typical, and if you really want the girls to show don’t charge them at all). The more specific the invitation the better it is. BUT, don’t make it too long, your guests may get a bit annoyed if it gets to that point.

NYC's Hardest Places to Get Into

10/9/2009 2:13:00 PM

Clubplanet has made a list of some of the hardest places to get into in New York City. They are the most exclusive and elite bars around. Getting past the bouncer is all about who you know in these places. If you are up for a challenge, and don’t mind waiting outside all night with only the slight possibility of actually stepping foot inside the door, then check out this list and try your luck. But unless you’re a celebrity or know the owner, chances are you won’t be seeing the inside of the door.

HUDSON TERRACE

With long lines every night, The Hudson Terrace is one of the hardest places to get into in New York City. If you happen to be important enough to gain entrance to this hotspot, it would be recommended to go to the roof deck. The roof deck of the Hudson Terrace is spectacular, with its leather couches and amazing views. Only problem: you need a wrist band to get up there. Wristbands are given out randomly to whomever the bouncer thinks is important. These wristbands are the golden ticket to going upstairs to the roof deck. If you aren’t given one when you enter, you are out of luck. The good news, for girls anyway, is that throughout the night the bouncer will walk down the line and pick out only attractive girls to come in. Sorry guys.

THE ROSE BAR

Located in the Gramercy Park Hotel, The Rose Bar is yet another one of the hardest places to get into on this list. The Rose Bar prides itself on being very exclusive and they are intending to stay that way. So unless you are a model or actor, don’t even try to get in.

AVENUE

Owner Noah Tepperberg is on a mission to try to make this club different then all the rest. With a strict door policy, Avenue will only let the most rich and elite people through its doors. The more you are willing to spend, the more you are likely to be let in. So if you are a ‘nobody’ who isn’t looking to spend a fortune on a night out, expect to be turned away at the door, and turned away rudely. The doorman gets annoyed if you try to waste his time, and he will have no problem letting you know this.

1 OAK

The owners of this club, Richie Akiva and Scott Sartiano, have said to be tired of the same old club scene in New York City. With that said, they only let the most selected people inside the doors. The max capacity for 1 OAK is only 250 people so if you don’t know the owners, it is next to impossible to gain entrance. Unless you are ordering bottle service or reserved a $2,000 table, chances are slim to none that you will get in. You can try paying the doorman off, but depending on how much you give him and his mood, it’s a tossup with if he lets you enter.

SIMYONE

Located directly below Abe & Arthurs restaurant, where Lotus use to be, this new lounge is one of the easier to get into venues on this list. This being said, one still might be waiting outside in line for hours. We would recommend arriving early so you have a better chance of entering. Fortunately, you can grab dinner while you wait at Abe & Arthurs restaurant, which is attached.

QT

Formerly known as The Boom Boom Room, this venue is known for how difficult it is to enter. It has been said that the QT, located in the Standard Hotel, has even turned celebrities and models away at the door. Unless you know Andres Balazs, the owner, don’t even waste your time trying to get into this place.

THE JANE BALLROOM

Located in the Jane Hotel, The Jane Ballroom’s popularity went through the roof when it first opened. More and more people were flocking to this place, and for the most part, they would not have to wait a while before getting through the door. That was until Jane Ballroom was raided by agencies, saying they were way past their capacity. They were allowed to remain open but was told to keep capacity to a minimum. So now, The Jane Ballroom is limiting the number of people they let through the doors, making it pretty hard to get into.

Spend Halloween in Bed at Duvet

10/9/2009 1:53:00 PM

With so many options for Halloween this year, it is going to be hard to choose where to spend it. New York City is full of parties full of dancing, drinking and costume contests. If you’re looking for an event that’s a little different than the rest, then you should spend your Halloween night in bed at Duvet.

Duvet is a sexy, upscale nightclub with a twist. It is where romantic dinning meets comfortable bedding. The crowd is usually 25+ and it is the perfect spot to mingle with your friends or even Mr. Right. Spending Halloween at Duvet is the classy way to be out and about on one of the biggest party nights of the year.

To get your tickets, click here.

Check into The Chelsea Hotel for Halloween

10/9/2009 10:01:00 AM

Atlantic City is known for its wild and crazy parties. On the weekends, people flock to the casinos and bar hop up and down the strip. This year, since Halloween is on a Saturday, the parties are going to be extra crazy. One place that is definitely worth the trip is The Chelsea Hotel. They are hosting not one but two Halloween bashes that you don’t want to miss.

The Fifth is a nightlife destination at The Chelsea Hotel. The entire hotel floor is dedicated to entertainment. It features the Living Room where you can sip champagne, the Cabana Club where you can lounge around, C5 where you can dance the night away and the Chelsea Prime where you can have dinner before you party. With the whole floor decked out for Halloween, this party is sure to be a success.

While the fifth floor is occupied, another party will be going on in The Ballroom. Also known as The Crystal Room, this venue is in indoor banquet space with an accompanying outdoor terrace overlooking Sea Spa’s saltwater pool. With the room seating up to 270 people, this Halloween bash will be fun and a little more classy that the fifth.

NYC's Top Specialty Cocktail Bars

10/7/2009 1:51:00 PM

New York nightlife is all about one thing…cocktails. Let’s face it when you’re planning a night on the town the first thing that pops into your head is ‘what am I going to drink tonight?’ It’s a good thing that a lot of New York venues offer specialty drinks that you can’t find anywhere else.

The Hill

The Hill is a cross between a sports bar and a lounge. It’s the type of place where you can watch your favorite sports team while being seating comfortably in an intimate location. While the kitchen is full of yummy treats for breakfast, lunch and dinner, the bar also works hard in serving up specialty drinks. One drink that all you chocolate lovers will not be able to resist is the Tor’s S’mors. The Tor’s is a mix of Vanilla Vodka, Godiva Chocolate Liquor, toasted marshmallow syrup and cream served with floating mini marshmallows, chocolate syrup, and an exploding toasted marshmallow rim. If that doesn’t send you running to the door then I don’t know what will.

Porky’s NYC

It’s the kind of place that makes you feel like you’re on vacation. Much like a bar that you would find in Cancun, Porky’s is full of people looking to have a good time. A crazy dance party usually breaks out in the middle of the room and it’s a little hard to move, however, their famous fishbowls are worth the squeeze. Porky’s fishbowls come in 6 different colors and flavors that are irresistible. Choose from Alligator Piss Green, Blue Lagoon, Fubar Red, Purple Haze, The Bachelorette Pink or the Tie Me Up To The Bed Post Orange. Some of these specialty drinks might not sound inviting but once you try on there is a chance you’ll forget the name anyway.

Death & Company

Although the name isn’t very welcoming, Death & Company is definitely worth a trip. They are open from 6 p.m.-12 a.m. 7 days a week and are said to feature some of the most creative cocktails in the city. You can enjoy a classy cocktail or a “lovely bowl of punch” that serves 4-6 people. One of their top sellers is the Drunken Punch. It is a mix of Apple-infused Blended Scotch, All spice Dram, Fresh Fuji Apple and Lemon Juice, Demerara, and Peychaud’s Bitters.
If you’re looking for a classy glass of champagne, then you should try the Dragon Lily which Champagne, Siembra Azul Blanco, Tequila, Tarragon-agave Gastrique, and Peychaud’s Bitters. Death and Company is all about taking a simple drink and making it their own.

Vlada Lounge

Vlada Lounge is located in the heart of the Broadway theater district. Celebrities like Cyndi Lauper and Alan Cumming usually stop by for one of their famous signature house drinks: infused vodka. There are 16 different kinds of infused vodka drinks, ranging from cranberry and apple/cinnamon to dill and horseradish. Each drink is made with all-natural ingredients, real fruits and some secret ingredients. If you’re looking for entertainment with your cocktails then Vlada Lounge is for you.

New York’s Halloween Extravaganza at BLVD

10/7/2009 8:34:00 AM

Halloween is a time of dressing up and pigging out on candy. It is a day when you can be anyone you want to be. Most recently, Halloween has been seen in another light. It has become one of the biggest party nights of the year. Bars and clubs are collaborating to create unforgettable Halloween events.

Alizé is bringing us one of the hottest parties out there. They are hosting Halloween Extravaganza 2009 at BLVD. BLVD features world-class catering, private rooms, live music and recording studio.

DJ Peter Parker from the Alizé Mix Squad will be working all night to bring tunes that will keep you on your feet. Complimentary open bar will be from 10-11pm and wearing a costume is definitely suggested. This is one event that you don’t want to miss.

To get your tickets, click here.

Fashion Meets Indie Music: Provocateur NYC

10/6/2009 1:34:00 PM

If you live in New York, you know that every club that opens tries to be more trendy than the last. It’s all about the expensive cocktails and showing off your designer clothing. New York is full of high demand places with lines that extend around corners. However, some things are about to change.

New York’s infamous nightlife scene is getting little more laid back with the opening of Provocateur. Located in the Meatpacking District, Provocateur is billing itself at “The Heart of Progressing, Vocal and Indie Music.” Provacateur is sure to be a success. Not only will it be a one of a kind place but it stands out because of its infamous location.

The new club will take over the site that recently housed the Garden of Ono which was located on the ground floor of Hotel Gansevoort with access to indoor and outdoor space. If you’re not familiar with the hotel, it is known for its 45-foot outdoor rooftop pool and the rooftop bar. It is a very classy place that is about to take on an indie vibe. For all you tourists, Provocateur will give off a European-style thrills with a New York twist. What’s better than getting a little taste of home while serving up a massive vacation.

For all you New Yorkers, Provocateur is the new nightlife spot from Michael Satsky and Brian Gefter, who previously owned Stereo on West 28th Street. Page 6 reported last year that the two will be cooking up something new and here it is. Stereo was a hit until their lease was up and the duo decided to stir things up at a new location.

Don’t be fooled by the progressive music. Although, Provocateur will not have that ritzy New York vibe, it is said to be even more outrageous than Stereo once was.

This October, feel free to pay a visit to Provocateur and get ready to witness New York like you’ve never seen it before.

Celebrate Halloween at Bryant Park

10/6/2009 10:57:00 AM

With Halloween just around the corner, it’s time to start gearing up for the many parties that are going to be taking place. New York is full of surprises. There is going to be a lot going on here on Halloween Night.

One party, in particular that is definitely worth waiting on line for is the Halloween Masquerade Ball at Bryant Park Grill. The Grill is a cozy place set towards the back of Bryant Park, where New York Fashion Week is always held. The venue can be seen as elegant, but this Halloween, it’s all about the costumes. So get your masks and tutus ready for a night of dancing and fun.

Get your tickets fast because this is one event that you don’t want to miss. You can purchase tickets for Bryant Park Grill's Halloween Masquerade Ball by clicking here.

Boom Boom Room No More

10/5/2009 6:05:00 PM

We recently wrote an article about the Boom Boom Room, New York’s newest hotspot. Andre Balasz opened up the bar this year during fashion week. It rested on the 18th floor of his hotel, The Standard Hotel. The opening night drew all sorts of celebrities, from Lindsay Lohan, to Madonna, to Jon Bon Jovi. Everything seemed to be going great for the bar. Unfortunately, The Boom Boom Room does not exist anymore. BlackBook Magazine's Steve Lewis got the inside scoop on the disappearance of The Boom Boom Room and what is now in its place.

The Boom Boom Room venue has recently changed its name after receiving a cease-and-desist letter from a San Francisco music venue with the same name. The creators of the Boom Boom Room told Steve Lewis that they “were sort of trying out the name but decided we need a new one ... we didn't realize how many other ‘Boom Boom Rooms’ were out there, one of the names Andre Balazs is considering is QT, as in on the QT."

As a result, the new name for The Boom Boom Room is QT, meaning “on the quiet.” It is in the exact same place as the Boom Boom Room, located in the Standard Hotel on 848 Washington Street. It is still decked with floor to ceiling windows, still gives a magnificent 360-degree view of Manhattan and the Hudson River and still is attracting people from all over.

Village Lantern Halloween

10/5/2009 4:29:00 PM

The Village Lantern, known for their live music and live comedians, is throwing their own Halloween After Party this year. On October 31st, from 10:00pm to 4:00 am, make sure you grab your friends and enjoy this 21 and older Halloween celebration. The event is located on 167 Bleecker Street and General Admission is only $10 per ticket.

Purchase Village Lantern Halloween tickets here.

Opal Halloween

10/5/2009 4:12:00 PM

Opal (251 East 52nd Street) is throwing a Halloween Party this year. From 10:00pm to 4:00am on Saturday, October 31st, make sure you come enjoy the main bar or rent out a private room for your Halloween night. With drink specials all night and general admission tickets priced at only $20 per person, this party is not called “The Best Halloween Party on the East Side” for nothing.

Purchase Opal Halloween tickets here.

Sequoia Halloween

10/5/2009 2:59:00 PM

Located on 89th Street at Pier 17, Sequoia is predicted to be one of the most popular Halloween parties this year. Starting from 9:00 p.m. on October 31st and lasting until 4:00 a.m., this is the place for you. With two floors and three rooms decorated just for Halloween, this Haunted House on The Pier will surpass your expectations. The three rooms you could chose from are the Grave Yard room, the Devil’s Nest Room, or the Dead Man’s Chest room. The outdoor patio will also be open, giving you harbor and city skyline views.

The party is sponsored by Hennessy Cognac, so Sequoia will have bottle and drink specials all night. You must be 21 years or older to enter. The Haunted House on The Pier Halloween Party wouldn’t be right without music from international club king DJ Camilo, playing latin, mainstream, house, and old school music all night.

There is a 1,500 people capacity and tickets will sell out fast so make sure you purchase yours as soon as possible. General admission for this party is $20 per ticket. Costumes are mandatory so you won’t be let in the door without one.

Click here to purchase Sequoia Halloween tickets.

Nightlife Romance: How to Read the Signals

10/1/2009 1:22:00 PM

The intricacies of human body language have been one of the most widely studied concepts during the last 100 years. Like it or not, people say more with a glance and a smile than they could ever get across with even the most absurd Tucker Max* pickup lines. A simple nod with a smile and a three second visual connection with the girl across the dance floor could mean anything ranging from “Come talk to me,” to “Let’s skip the conversation and grab a bottle of wine on the way back to my flat!” A simple sultry and suggestive glance in return, while she draws attention to her lips with the straw placed oh so conveniently in her vodka and cranberry, and the next step in the brilliant dance continues. Now it’s time to make out the most direct route to her through the sea of passers by and fellow romance seekers all while attempting to seem nonchalant and direct at the same time! Gives you a headache just thinking about it doesn’t it?

Don’t fret love (or lust) seekers! It’s not that hard to understand! We’ve been programmed since kindergarten (thank you social streamlining!) to respond correctly to these cues; it’s just a matter of being aware of (and mastering) your own body language and using a little common sense and creativity to reign, react and respond to the signs and signals from across the nightclub dance floor. Here are a few suggestions and obvious signs that Clubplanet has compiled to translate the language of silent seduction! Enjoy!

1. One glance means nothing. Two glances could lead to something. Three glances and it’s on! The rule of threes. Why three? She has to make damned sure that the light didn’t hit you just right to make you look like David Beckham, and you are actually available and into it. The first glance is for scouting. As she scans the horizon of half lit dance floor possibilities finding her way to you, momentary eye contact means… well absolutely nothing. She might have really been into the art on the wall, or even worse, the guy standing right behind you, but if she notices you long enough to think about it, you might have a chance. The second glance (usually accompanied by a smile and slightly prolonged eye contact) is almost more important than the third due to the fact that this is the exploratory and decision making glance. She wants to know what she’s getting herself into, how good you actually look, and the obviousness of your availability all while making you notice her at the same time. The third time is the closer. Generally accompanied by a glance that screams “Come and buy me a drink now, you have five seconds to react or loose me forever.”

2. If you gesture “hello” and she doesn’t respond, move on to the next girl. The truth hurts, and sometimes being completely ignored is even worse. But it is the easiest and most obvious sign to interpret and respond to in the language of movement. Have you ever waved, smiled, stood next to, or tried to talk to a girl who reacted colder than the AC that engulfed the nightclub before anyone arrived? That’s a bad sign. What she is trying to say without being rude is, “Listen I don’t see you right now because you do not currently and most likely will never exist in my world. Don’t bother, I don’t care that you claim to be a brain surgeon with a private Lear jet, a villa on Star Island and an invitation to Diddy’s New Year’s Party.” Time to move on to the next possibility.

3. If you’re surrounded by your friends and she is looking your way, make sure it’s you she wants and not your boy. Communication is key on this one. So is being honest with yourself. If you’re in a wolf pack and she’s looking over in the general direction of EVERYONE you’re surrounded with, do not automatically assume she’s into you. There is an easy way to get around this, however, and discover the truth. Take a lap! Get a new perspective on your prospect away from your boys and start the dance on the solo. If she is obviously looking your way for the second glance (while the boys are off scouting for themselves) then there is not a question as to who she’s staring at. It was you the whole time anyway!

4. If you notice the dancing gap closing, Make a move. Moving with the music and closing in on each other are completely different things. If she is moving with the rhythm, bringing herself closer to you with each turn to the point where you can smell the Vodka and Redbull on her breath and the vanilla perfume she spritzed herself with, then there is an obvious and literal attraction bringing you closer with each bass drop. Don’t fight it, she sees how you move and wants to, at very least, share a dance.

5. Don’t think that just because she is with a guy, it’s her guy. This one can be a bit tricky to navigate. Girls want to have a wingman as well, and in the words of my sister “some sort of boy-be-gone” repellant to chase away the less than desirables and make it easier for her to scope out the playing field. Common sense would say that maybe if she is there with the guy, holding his hand, dancing exclusively (and in very close proximity) with him, making out etc., this is most likely her man. However, girls like to feel safe and generally there is no way that she and he will be going for the same prospect. It makes it easier for her, but doesn’t mean that she is unavailable! During your lap, scope it out, notice how they are interacting and go from there.

Major Lazer and Crookers in Montreal

10/1/2009 11:16:00 AM

Montreal nightlife has enough nightclubs, DJs and dancefloors to keep you dancing well into 2010. But on October 9th, Metropolis is the only dancetination your calendar needs to be aware of as Major Lazer and Crookers come to town…

Though they come from different areas of the dance floor, both Major Lazer and Crookers represent some of the most interesting things happening in high-profile dance music these days. And the Montreal contingent is nothing to sneeze at either: the event is being presented by the good folks over at NEON, HIGH FOOD and those notorious party hounds, Peer Pressure, who will have not only some of their heavy-hitting DJs like HATCHMATIK and A-ROCK openings things up, but the lovely SHAYDAKISS hosting the night.

But who are these international deck-wrecking dance floor destructors?

MAJOR LAZER, according to the press release, is a “Jamaican commando who lost his arms in the secret zombie war of 1984 and had them replaced by lazers”. Uh ok, but what he really is is an alter ego of two huge producers, Switch and Diplo. Switch is a UK-based producer and DJ who has worked with M.I.A. and Santogold, while Diplo (who has also worked with M.I.A. and dated her in the past) is a Philadelphia-based producer and DJ whose world-travelling exploits (documented somewhat hilariously on his Twitter Feed) have helped bring lesser known strains of dance music, like Brazilian “baile funk,” to a wider audience. As Major Lazer, they recently released the album, Guns Don't Kill People, Lazers Do, which mashes up reggae, dancehall and funky robot sounds into a non-stop party that my stereo is still obsessed with.

CROOKERS are bit more straightforward a story. This Italian duo of DJs Bot and Phra blasted into larger prominence based largely on the strength of their remix work: though they’ve re-interpreted music from everyone from AC/DC to Britney Spears, their most well-known remix is for Kid Cudi’s Day’n’Night, which has been watched almost 14 million times on Youtube. Their debut full-length album is due out in January, 2010.

If I haven’t convinced you yet, I probably never will. But if I have, then check NEON'S WEBSITE for tickets and see you on the dance floor here in Montreal.

Brendan Murphy is a Montreal-based music columnist and blogger. Check out his Montreal Nightlife blog for more on Montreal after dark.

NYC's Best Nightlife Views

9/30/2009 1:58:00 PM

Manhattan is full of amazing sites and views. Some of the best views can be seen when the city is lit up at night. Most of these views can be seen from rooftops and porches. Lucky for us, some of our favorite nightlife spots have outdoor seating and bar service. These bars provide an open escape from the darkness of the typical NYC bar.

Empire Hotel

The Empire Hotel, located right outside Columbus Circle, is famous for their rooftop bar. Fully equipped with candles and fire places, the rooftop at the Empire Hotel is the perfect place to cozy up with a cocktail. The roof has an amazing view of the city. Not only can you see Lincoln Center, but you can also take a peek at the Broadway & Columbus Ave gateway to the Upper West Side. Personally, I think it’s one of the best views in the city. Plop down on one of the many couches and enjoy a drink under the starry sky and brisk air.

Sutton Place

Sutton Place, located in Midtown, has a great view of the corporate world. Buildings and buildings in all shapes and sizes. You can even see the infamous lipstick building located on 3rd Ave. The terrace has patio seating and a 46-foot bar. Overhead heating units are provided for those chilly nights. If you don’t want to sit under the stars, there are 3 other areas inside that you can choose from, but the terrace is definitely the most spacious and practical.

230 Fifth

It doesn’t take a genius to figure out that if a bar was named 2009’s Best Rooftop Bar in NYC, then the place is bound to have an amazing view. 230 Fifth features their rooftop garden. Full of flowers and trees, the roof holds up to 350 guests who can enjoy the night with the perfect view of NYC around them. With their Botanical Gardens-like feel, 230 Fifth is a major nightlife spot that is open from 4pm-4am year round.

Bookmarks Lounge

Like the Empire Rooftop, Bookmarks is located on top of the Liberty Hotel in Midtown. The rooftop is full of wicker furniture and closed in by brick and stone railings. The view is a typical cityscape, with office buildings all around. It is the perfect place for a Friday after work drink and to watch an awesome sunset.

Cabanas at the Maritime Hotel

Cabanas is famous for their rooftop parties. During the summer, Cabanas is the place to be. It is a more laid-back place than any of the other places mentioned. Cabanas makes you feel like you’re visiting a typical L.A. nightclub, with celebrities around every corner. Although the roof is closed in the winter, Cabanas definitely deserves a top 5 spot on the Best Nightlife Views list. Between the city view and sunroof, you can’t go wrong.

A Blast from the Past: The Back Room NYC

9/29/2009 2:54:00 PM

The Prohibition was a period of time, from 1919 to 1933, where alcohol was banned from being sold, manufactured, and transported in The United States. Establishments called speakeasies started to pop up all over, illegally selling alcohol to those against The Prohibition. These secret establishments were the key concept behind the making of The Back Room. This bar is hidden on Norfolk Street, with an unmarked entrance behind a sign that reads “Lower East Side Toy Company.”

Once you find the entrance of the bar, you will receive a slight historical lesson about The Prohibition from the bouncer before being pointed to a mysterious hallway. Once in the bar, you will see that it is decorated completely in décor from the 1920s. There is a giant fireplace, mirrored bar, and large comfy leather couches where one could sit and chat. Also located in this speakeasy bar is mysterious bookshelf with another bouncer standing next to it. This bookshelf is the doorway for a hidden back room, where only guests of the owners are allowed in.

The best part of The Back Room is how the drinks are served. Since the bar is supposed to take place in the Prohibition era, the drinks are not served in regular glasses. The cocktails are served in tea cups and the bottles of beer are served with brown paper bags. So if you are looking for something different to do in New York City, come to The Back Room and get ready to travel through time.

'Gossip Girl' Takes Manhattan

9/29/2009 8:00:00 AM

Are you obsessed with Gossip Girl? Do you wish that you lived at the Palace Hotel? If so, then get ready to live like royalty.

On Location Tours just launched their newest New York City tour. Based on the hit TV series, "Gossip Girl," a tour has been designed to take you too more than 40 NYC locations used in filming the show. Among them is the hotel that is home to the Bass and Van der Woodsen families as well as the Fifth Ave. building that Blair calls home.

Like the "Sex and the City" hotspots tour, this is a three hour bus tour that starts in Midtown Manhattan. The tours are given on Fridays and Sundays and advance ticket purchase is required.

Halloween in Sydney

9/25/2009 3:20:00 PM

Go down under for Halloween at Sydney’s hottest nightclubs, events, and Halloween parties. This hot city in Australia offers the scariest of parties and the best of events so that everyone will find what they are looking for.

Sydney’s Nightlife offers tons of frighteningly good parties that every screamer will enjoy. The Sydney nightclub Zanzibar Newton has a Halloween party that will scare you even if the rooftop views don’t. For the sexiest Halloween Party in Sydney visit Twin Peaks. It’s a lingerie restaurant, so be as risqué and scandalous with your costume as you want. Sydney’s nightclub, Tank, will be spinning a chilling Halloween mix from the worlds best international DJ’s.

The Australian Museum will be hosting its annual Fright at the Museum event on Halloween as well. This Sydney Halloween event is perfect for even the youngest of children with crafts, ghost stories, face painting, and even trick-or-treating. You can also take a haunted Tour through the city’s cobbled streets with The Rock’s Ghost Tour.

Halloween in Paris

9/25/2009 1:51:00 PM

Paris may be the most romantic city in the world, but for Halloween it can also be the scariest. Paris’s historic architecture makes for an eerie trip through the city whether you are visiting its famous nightclubs, or trick-or-treating with your kids.

Halloween in Paris is becoming more popular through the rise of American Pop Culture, so you can be sure to benefit from these advances. The Gally Farm in France is the perfect place for pumpkin picking. Disneyland will also be hosting its annual Halloween event where the entire park is decorated in celebration of this holiday. You can even bring your children to trick-or-treat with their favorite Disney characters.

Paris’s Halloween isn’t all for the children though. Paris’s Nightclub “The American Dream” is the perfect place to experience an American style Halloween in Paris where they have been famously celebrating Halloween since 1982. You can also Dance till Dawn at the famous Witch Festival in Chalindrey, where you celebrate witch craft and black magic among the locals.

West Village Restaurant Becomes Celeb Hot Spot

9/25/2009 8:20:00 AM

Greenwich Village has always been known as the laid back part of the city. It’s good for its vintage clothing, college bars and now celebrity sightings. Café Cluny, located on West 12th, has become the ideal hot spot for celebs looking for a quick bite to eat. It is just right for Sunday brunch or even some dessert.

Over the last week, Café Cluny has served some of Hollywood’s finest such as Sienna Miller, Kirsten Dunst, Julianne Moore and Kate Winslet. Even SNL star Amy Poehler was able to sneak away from the set long enough to get a taste of Café Cluny.

If you’re looking for good food and maybe even dining with the rich and famous, then this is the place for you.

Halloween in Melbourne

9/24/2009 3:48:00 PM

Halloween can mean many things to many different people. Whether you revel in dressing up for the night, or can’t wait to count the number of Milky Ways you’ve received, this holiday is unique to every one who celebrates it. The city of Melbourne embraces this notion, and has tons of events to offer up every Halloween season.

There is no shortage of parties going on during Halloween in Melbourne. Clubs such as Revolver, Feddish Bar and Restaurant, and Alley Bar, to name a few, are offering up exclusive Halloween parties. Come dressed in your sexiest and scariest costumes, and make sure that if you wear a mask, there is a slit to sip your cocktail.

For those Halloween enthusiasts craving a good laugh instead of a good scream, then check out Impro Melbourne’s Halloween Classic. This annual three-day weekend is filled with improvisation served up by local favorites and international comedians. The acts are sure to create a fine balance of “ha-ha’s” and “AAAHHHH’s!”

If you are a Halloween purist looking strictly for the biggest scare, then be sure to join Haunted Australia TV presenter, Drew Sinton, on his Haunted Melbourne Ghost Tour. The two-hour tour starts out at Sinton’s Haunted Bookshop, and leads you through all of the scariest areas of Melbourne. Travel down dark alleyways, and spend time in some of Melbourne’s paranormal hotspots, such as Queen Victoria Market, where more than 9,000 bodies are buried underneath the streets.

If you want your screams to come from a roller coaster instead of a ghostly encounter, then Melbourne’s Luna Dark in Luna Park is the event for you. Step inside the spookiest carnival in all of Australia. Wear your costumes as you ride park favorites such as the Ghost Train and the Enterprise Ferris Wheel.

With all these options and more, Halloween in Melbourne is sure to satiate any Halloween enthusiasts’ appetite.

Halloween in Manchester

9/24/2009 3:35:00 PM

London isn’t the only happening spot in the UK when it comes to Halloween celebrations. Manchester is on the rise as an international hotspot for ghoulish and ghastly gallivants.

The first stop on a Manchester-Halloween crawl should be The Hellfire Club Restaurant. This horror-themed restaurant looks and acts like a Halloween party year round. Their annual Halloween soiree, known simply as Hellfire Halloween, takes the festivities to the next level, enhancing the décor and atmosphere even more to bring the ultimate frights on the ultimate haunted night.

Next on your list should be Hey! Manchester’s Hey! Halloween special. The party offers live music, world-class DJs, a short horror-film festival, and a costume contest where the winner is chosen by the headlining band. This annual event brings out Manchester’s best and is a must-hit for Halloween night.

Another raging party Manchester has to offer this All Hallow’s Eve is the Caged Asylum Halloween Ball at nightlife hot spot, the Ruby Lounge. The party features one of UK’s sexiest and most seductive acts – the Fuel Girls, a fire-breathing, rock and roll, dance and stunt show.

When you don’t have your party shoes on, then make sure you are rocking your ghost-hunting gear; there’s no better way to spend Halloween in Manchester then with the city’s own Ghostbusters’s league. Manchester Paranormal is a ghost hunting and investigating organization, that also allows the public to book private hunting parties. Get in touch with the other side, and experience some real life hauntings this Halloween in Manchester.

Halloween in Dublin

9/24/2009 1:49:00 PM

Dublin, considered the party capital of Ireland, is home to the Guinness factory, the best St. Patrick Day’s celebration in the world, and many more pub-related events. However, Dublin is also famous for being the hometown of Dracula creator, Bram Stoker. It is no surprise, then, that Dublin knows how to throw a proper Halloween party, filled with beer and fear.

Lillies Bordello, one of the most prestigious nightclubs in Dublin, throws a yearly Halloween soiree. Their Halloween party has a theme that patrons can choose to dress to, or they can come equipped in their best interpretation of horror or humor. The night at Lillies is capped with a costume contest going to the craziest costume.

If you are looking to pair your Halloween prowl with a pub, then make sure you go to Dublin’s Temple bar district. All Hallow’s Eve frights pair off perfectly with Temple’s medieval-esque streets. Come dressed your best as you participate in your own Temple pub crawl, stopping at one of the many traditional establishments such as The Porterhouse, The Turk’s Head, and the Temple Bar, to name a few.

Pair your pub crawl with an earlier in the evening parade, namely the annual Samhain Halloween Parade. Thousands of Dublin’s finest come out for this festival, where young and old come out in their Halloween-finest. The parade route starts at Parnell Square, and ends up in the Temple bar district (where your crawl can commence!) Need a costume idea? May we suggest a traditional vampire costume – a scary and sexy choice that commemorates one of Dublin’s greatest gifts to the horror world – Count Dracula.

Halloween in Berlin

9/24/2009 1:47:00 PM

Berlin citizens are known for their unique and adventurous style. With many people walking the streets of Berlin donning Goth and punk attire, it is no wonder that on Halloween, the costumes are taken to the next level. And of course, we can’t forget to mention their world-class parties that celebrate the scariest night of the year.

Your first stop should be at one of Berlin’s finest clubs, the Adagio. The avant-garde Masquerade Ball is set to the music of some of the best DJ’s in all of Germany, where they spin the beats in the “Castle Garden of the Undead.” Each year’s party has a different theme that partygoers can dress to, or they can choose to style themselves to another crazy theme. If you really want to up the frights on your Halloween night, then Adagio also offers up an area of the club, known as the “Horror Classics Lounge,” that shows Halloween movies all night.

Throughout the Berlin of Berlin, Halloween movies and shows are constantly being broadcast throughout the holiday. From classics such as “Psycho,” “Scream,” and “Rocky Horror Picture Show,” the people of Berlin celebrate the season with cinema.

Known as the “Dark Restaurant,” Nocti Vagus utilizes its shadowy décor to throw a thrilling and chilling Halloween soiree. The venue pairs a three-course meal with ghoulish touches, while patrons eat in the darkness and are served by members of the blind staff. Nocti Vagus serves up a unique and delicious Halloween experience in Berlin.

If you are looking for a more low-key and fun Halloween event, then check out Berlin’s LegoLand. The store transforms itself from a timid toyshop to a ghoulish horror show in the weeks leading up to Halloween. Berlin’s LegoLand provides Halloween enthusiasts a platform to celebrate the holiday weeks before, so when the holiday does come around, the people of Berlin are in full gear to celebrate Halloween.

Halloween in Belfast

9/24/2009 1:32:00 PM

Northern Ireland’s capital city – Belfast – is home to a ton of Celtic pride and tradition. In the last few years, the people of Belfast have chosen to adopt Halloween as one of their newest citywide celebrations. From the City Council to nightclubs, historic landmarks to modern complexes, Belfast comes alive with the Halloween spirit.

The Belfast City Council commemorates All Hallow’s Eve every year with its Halloween Metro Monster Mash. This annual festival features tons of street performers, a crazy carnival, musical performances, and so much more. Belfast’s Translink Metro will be offering free “ghost bus” shuttle service all night. Cap the night off with a spine-tingling fireworks show. The Metro Monster Mash is sure to offer up a healthy dose of thrills and chills to all who come.

If you want to pair your costume with a cocktail, then be sure to check out one of Belfast’s world-class clubs or bars on Halloween. Bamboo Beach Club is always a sure-fire hit on Halloween, especially among the college-aged crowd. Mono and MClub also celebrate the holiday in style, encouraging their patrons to dress to impress.

For an authentic Belfast experience, be sure to check out Glamis Castle’s Halloween event. The 16th-century establishment offers visitors a haunted historic experience, filled with ghost stories and a tour of the castle’s crypt and tower. End the night bobbing for apples or participating in Glamis’ costume contest.

To see a wide variety of Belfast’s haunted hotspots, hop aboard the Halloween GhostBus Tour. Visitors get to encounter some of Belfast’s paranormal parts, such as the Friar’s Bush Cemetery, Tomb Street, and Cornmarket. Participants get to end the two-hour tour with a nightcap at one of Belfast’s haunted pubs. All these events and more offer up a Belfast Halloween chock full of fun and fear.

Halloween in Amsterdam

9/24/2009 1:18:00 PM

Leave your clogs and milkmaid hats at home; the only garb you’ll need this Halloween in Amsterdam is your creepiest and most creative costume. Although the Dutch do not officially commemorate Halloween, it is slowly becoming a worthwhile celebration along the crowded canals of the city.

The biggest Halloween party in all of Deutschland is held at Boom Chicago. This American-style comedy club requires that its patrons wear costumes on this night, with the best-costumed male, female, couple, and group taking home big prizes. Located on the Leidseplein, Boom Chicago brings together the eclectic Amsterdam scene on Halloween – a mixture of locals, expats, and tourists. Each year’s celebration has a different theme that guests of the Halloween fright-fest can either dress to match, or come up with their own creative creations.

The All Hallow’s Eve party continues at Amsterdam’s Hard Rock Café, where visitors dressed in costumes receive a complimentary “Witches Brew” cocktail. Stick around ‘til midnight if you think you’ve got the fiercest costume; the Hard Rock throws one of Amsterdam’s biggest costume contests.

Mulligan’s Irish Pub is another Amsterdam establishment that throws down for Halloween. With hollowed skulls dotting the bar, the traditional Irish décor is transformed on Halloween to bring the screams. Located right on the Amstel River, patrons are encouraged to dress their scariest while they enjoy a few pints of Amsterdam’s best Guinness.

If you are looking to rock the night away on Halloween, then make sure to visit Paradiso. The old-church-turned-concert-hall puts on a Halloween party filled with live music, freaky sideshows, costume contests, and more. This is one of Amsterdam’s most famed music venues, so great music will definitely be a theme of the night.

Although all these Amsterdam haunts have a lot of hard-partying fun to offer up on Halloween, the city is also home to some real haunts. Check out the Amsterdam Dungeon for some serious spooks on Halloween. The guided tour through this underground world of torture recounts medieval tales of torment from the Spanish Inquisition, as well as a trip through a maze of mirrors and other ghastly displays. With all these options, it is clear that Halloween in Amsterdam is on the rise!

Halloween in Cardiff

9/24/2009 1:06:00 PM

Halloween has many nicknames around the world – Halloween to some, All Hallow’s Eve to many. In Cardiff, the spookiest night of the year is known as Nos Galan Gaeaf, the beginning of the new year, the night when spirits walk abroad. To celebrate Nos Galan Gaeaf, Cardiff embraces the scary and scintillating and throws a host of haunted events.

For those looking to pair the Halloween boo’s with some booze, check out Cardiff’s annual Halloween at the Hard Rock. Visitors who dress in costume receive a complimentary Zombie cocktail. Lots of surprises and treats are abound at the event, making Halloween extra rocking in Cardiff.

If you want to fly off the seat of your pants (or broom) this Halloween, hop around to one of the many bars and clubs Cardiff has to offer, and do something spontaneous. Some of the best nightlife spots include Evolution, Clwb Lfor Bach, and The Wharf. Take to the Cardiff streets on Halloween for your very own impromptu bar and costume crawl.

Looking for some organized frights? Then check out the Creepy Cardiff Ghost Tour. Beginning outside the National Museum of Wales, this one-hour tour treats visitors with stories of dragons, reincarnations and haunting, as well as a stop at the burial place of Queen Boadicea. The Creepy Cardiff Ghost Tour pairs Cardiff lore with Halloween gore, providing a history-filled haunting.

Another infamous ghost tour that takes place in Cardiff is the Ghost Tours at St. Fagans. Celebrate those Halloween nights with tales of terror, and illusions to excite the eyes and mind. Explore the museum’s expanse in the dark for a truly unique Cardiff experience. It’ll surely be a Halloween…or rather Nos Galan Gaeaf… you’ll never forget or regret.

Halloween in Bristol

9/24/2009 1:00:00 PM

Bristol, located in the United Kingdom for those of you who didn’t know, is not only big on soccer but they are also big on nightlife.

O2 Academy formerly known as Carling Academy is one of the most well-known and top rated bars in Bristol. O2 hosts events almost every night, ranging from big bands to world class DJ’s. The venue used to be movie theater or cinema so you could imagine how big it is in size.

Another top rated bar is The Syndicate, Bristol’s proper dance club. In competition with O2, Syndicate also hosts major events with the hottest DJ’s. What makes this place stand out is that the 2nd floor rings around the club allowing you to look down at everyone dancing and having a good time. The Syndicate was named venue of the year and is known to be one of the best in Bristol.

Bristol is known for celebrating their “half-term holidays.” Half-term meaning short vacation halfway through the school term. The next “half-term” holiday is Halloween.

If you’re looking to have a classy Halloween, then head to the Cadbury House Hotel Halloween Ball. Dine like a princess and dress to impress. The event is catered with a 2-course buffet and includes Chris Alexander’s Freaky Friday Disco Show.

Heading to Bristol this October? If so, then take the Haunted and Hidden Bristol walking tour. See Bristol’s famous Haunted Cinema, visit a 16th century Haunted House and actual TV and film locations used in horror movies.

While in the UK spend your euros wisely and head to Bristol for a crazy night. It is a decision that you won’t regret.

Halloween Pub Crawl 2009

9/23/2009 4:05:00 PM

It’s that time of the year again when all the ghosts and goblins and witches come to wander around New York City from bar to bar all across Manhattan. Its back again brought to you by the record holders of the Guinness Book of World Records for the largest Pub crawl in the world.

This year Pubcrawls.com has gone above and beyond all expectations turning Halloween into a “Halloweekend” allowing all of New York City to celebrate Halloween for not just one night but for three! The Halloween pub crawl will begin on October 30th for its “Happy Hour Pub-crawl” then followed by the “Halloween Night Pub Crawl” on October 31st and lastly the “Halloween Hangover Crawl” on Sunday November 1st.

I haven’t even gotten to the best part yet. Three days of Halloween pub crawling in New York City sounds amazing but now imagine this….three days of Halloween pub crawling in New York City featuring 130 bars. Sounds like a dream but pubcrawls.com has turned this dream into a reality.

There will be no cover at all 130 bars with drink specials all day for three days at all 130 bars. So put on your costume and come party and drink $2 Bud Lights, 2 for 1 pumpkin ales, and 2 for 1 Halloween cocktails. There will be nothing else like it.

This New York City Halloween pub crawl at 130 bars will include bars like the Village Pourhouse, TG Whitney’s, SideBAR, Aces and Eights, Stir and Porkys.

The Village Pourhouse has two locations, one uptown on Amsterdam and one downtown on 3rd avenue. Village Pourhouse is NYC #1 sports bar and hangout spot that combines the atmosphere of a neighborhood sports bar with multiple rooms and 100 different beers. The Village Pourhouse is one of the seven registration locations for the NYC Halloween pub crawl.

SideBAR in union square is another one of the registration locations for the NYC Halloween pub crawl. This chic sports bar with urban attitude features four rooms, a Front Bar, Mezzanine, Lounge, and The Tasting Room. SideBAR will definitely be a fun stop during the parade of ghosts and goblins pub crawling their way through New York City.

Porkys on W 21st street is another one of the seven registration locations for the NYC Halloween pub crawl. Porkys of NYC invites all to come “chug a beer, dance like an idiot, and party like a rockstar”.

All 130 bars will feature a different experience of fun and partying that will be like none else. This year’s pub crawl has turned into an event that cannot be missed. 3 days, 5 miles, and 130 bars. What could be a better way to spend your Halloween weekend then this years New York City pub crawl. Go to pubcrawls.com to purchase your tickets now.

Top Happy Hour Spots in New York City

9/23/2009 2:33:00 PM

New York City is all about one thing: trends. The new and upcoming trends are what keep the city moving. One trend that never goes out of style is happy hour. Usually between the hours of five and seven, happy hour deals take over. You might even get lucky to see happy hour specials running all day long. After a long day at the office, happy hour is the way to go. Here is a list of some of my favorite happy hour spots.

Dempsey’s

Located in the East Village, Dempsey’s is the perfect happy hour spot. You can enjoy pool, darts and beer pong, along with their signature beer. Happy hour is every weekday from 4pm-7:45pm. Drinks are buy one get one. Also if you happen to wander in on a Thursday or a Friday, you can indulge yourself in a free bowl of fries with your second round. If buy one get one isn’t good enough for you then feel free to enjoy the Bucket-o-Beer specials. You can get 5 beers for 15 bucks or a bucket and hot wings for 20 bucks. No matter what deal you choose, Dempsey’s is sure to be a good time.

1849

If you find yourself walking aimlessly down Bleecker Street trying to find somewhere to quench your happy hour needs, then you should definitely head into 1849. You can choose to settle down with half priced beer and well drinks until 8pm or you can try one of their daily specials. On Sunday and Monday, happy hour is extended till 1am along with 20 cent Buffalo wings. “Loco Tuesday” offers $2 coronas and cuervo shots from 8pm-1am. Wednesday’s offer $7 pitchers and 20 cent wings. And as for Thursdays, well Thursdays are all about the ladies. On ladies night, you can feast on half price beers and well drinks. Overall, 1849 is a cant miss everyday of the week.

Blind Tiger Ale House

Also located on Bleecker, Blind Tiger features an 8 hour happy hour five days a week. Although you only get a $1 off your happy hour choice, the drinks are still decently priced. They have a large beer selection and a big cozy fireplace. You can’t go wrong. If you’re bar hoping down Bleecker, then definitely stop at Blind Tiger Ale House.

Crocodile Lounge

Featured as a Critic’s pick in New York Magazine, Crocodile Lounge offers one thing that most New Yorkers can’t turn down: pizza. Did I mention the pizza was free? That’s right with every drink you order, you get a free six-slice personal pie. If that’s not inviting then I don’t know what is. Aside from the pizza, the Crocodile Lounge chose their main form of entertainment to be their Skee Ball machine in the rear of the bar. It’s a good choice for some laid back, after work fun.

Whiskey Trader

Whisky Trader has everything a New Yorker is looking for: an area to watch the game, a lounge to relax and $3 cosmos. Not only do you get $3 cosmos, but you can also get Bud light pints, and appletini and a watermellontini for the same price. If those sweet drinks aren’t your thing, then you can get patron and jager shots for only $2 more. Happy hour is seven days a week from 4-7pm. Perfect for an weekend evening out or an after work pit stop.

Lindsay Lohan Breaks Down at The Bowery Hotel

9/23/2009 8:00:00 AM

This past weekend, Lindsay Lohan was kicked out of the Bowery Hotel in Manhattan. Lohan was escorted off the premises after a fight broke out between her on/off girlfriend Samantha Ronson. Police were said to be called to the scene after Lohan allegedly threw a room service tray at what she thought was Ronson’s door. The door actually turned out to be of an unsuspecting hotel guest.

This is not the first time that the couple is in the public eye because of a fight. Earlier this year the police were called to Ronson’s home after a window was smashed. Lohan’s family is now trying to get the actress back into rehab and perhaps some anger management classes.

The Newest Sin City Addition: CityCenter Las Vegas

9/22/2009 4:32:00 PM

The up and coming CityCenter Las Vegas, currently being built by MGM MIRAGE is a collection of hotels and casinos. With an anticipated end of 2009 opening, this replication of an urban city even has its own fire station. Still in the construction stages, MGM MIRAGE is also hoping to achieve LEED Certification (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) by the US Green Council for CityCenter.

CityCenter Las Vegas is estimated to cost over 11 billion dollars to create, making it the most expensive privately funded construction project in United States History. Executives of MGM MIRAGE traveled all over the world to find the best architects to work together in the construction of CityCenter. Eight award winning architectural companies were hired for the job: Helmut Jahn, RV Architecture, LLC, Foster + Partners, Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates, Pelli Clarke Pelli Architects, Studio Daniel Libeskind, Rockwell Group, and Gensler.

Spread across 68 acres, this new collection of hotels and casinos is located on the Las Vegas Strip between the Bellagio and Monte Carlo. It will consist of six well known hotels: Aria Resorts & Casino Las Vegas, Vdara Hotel & Spa, Crystals Resort and Entertainment, Mandarin Oriental Hotel Las Vegas, Veer Towers, and The Harmon Hotel. Also present in CityCenter is Crystals, containing 500,000 feet of shopping and dining. Along with luxurious hotels, casinos, restaurants and shopping, CityCenter is also going to host a new Cirque du Soleil show, called Elvis. Not only is CityCenter Las Vegas going to be attracting more visitors to Las Vegas, it is also going to open up over 12,000 jobs which is crucial for today’s economy.

Celebrities Flock to 'Invention of Lying' Screening

9/22/2009 8:00:00 AM

This past Thursday, the Cinema Screening hosted the red carpet screening of Invention of Lying at Tribeca Grand. The comedy’s all-star cast includes Jason Bateman, Jennifer Garner, Jonah Hill, Tina Fey and many more. The New York premiere was sponsored by Three-O Vodka and had plenty of celebrity attendees including Hilary Duff, Tiffani Thiessen, and Mark- Paul Gosselar.

Like any other red carpet event, the screening was followed by an after party at Soho Grand. Since Three-O was the sponsor, guests got to enjoy Three-O Cherry and Grape specialty cocktails.

Invention of Lying premieres October 2nd, and it is sure to be a success.