Get Out: 5 Ways to Celebrate New Year's Eve

1. First Night

What: This annual event sponsored by Highmark and run by the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust is a family-friendly celebration that has something for everyone. From crafts to live music and even a fireworks celebration, First Night is a great way to please the whole family.

Where/when: Downtown Pittsburgh in the Cultural District, New Year's Eve, 6 p.m. until after midnight. Events include a fireworks display, parade and performance by the Dirty Dozen Brass Band.

Admission: Buttons that admit you to all activities and events are $8/person in advance or $10 on the night of the event. Visit First Night's website for more information.

2. New Year's Eve Family Celebration

What: Ring in 2013 with the whole family at Phipps Conservatory and participate in an early countdown at 8:45 p.m., all before youngsters head off to bed. All activities are free with paid Conservatory admission.

When/where: Phipps Conservatory, New Year's Eve, 6-9 p.m.

Admission: Free with price of admission, $12 for adults, $9 for children 2-18, and is free for children under 2. Call 412-622-6914 or visit Phipps Conservatory's website for more information.

3. Countdown to Noon

What: The event features jazz music from saxophonist Lee Robinson and pianist Joe DiFazio from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Guests can participate in the “Get Your Glow On” activity in the multimedia art Studio, and tour the illuminated studios of the Saturday Light Brigade. Visitors will experience an early countdown, with a balloon drop and lighting effects, at noon. Later in the afternoon, visitors can watch “The Glow Show” musical by Frog Prince Theatricals.

When/where: Children's Museum of Pittsburgh, New Year's Eve, beginning at 11 a.m.

Admission: Included with general admission of $13; $12 for ages 2 to 18 and senior citizens. For more information, call 412-322-5058 or visit pittsburghkids.org.

4. Noon Year's Eve Celebration

What: Ring in the New Year with your family at a celebration of Time Square proportions. Count down to a noon ball drop, sign the New Year's ReZOOlution banner, and dance into the new year with live entertainment provided by Radio Disney.

When/where: Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium, New Year's Eve, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Admission: All activities are free and are included with general admission. Call 412-365-2534 or visit http://www.pittsburghzoo.org/ for more information.

5. New Year's Undead Eve

What: Come dressed in your most ghoulish semi-formal attire. Prize will be awarded to the Best Dressed Undead.

When/Where: Crowne Plaza Pittsburgh South, New Year's Eve, 10 p.m. to 2 a.m.

Admission: Tickets are $25 per person or $45 per couple and include snacks, a nacho bar and champagne toast at midnight. For more information, visit www.horrorrealmcon.com.