Got Plans?

Every Thursday at 1 p.m. ET, washingtonpost.com's Entertainment Guide experts share their best bets for local flavor, great dates and family fun. Got plans? Great. Need plans? Just ask. We have the skinny on the bars and clubs, concerts, kitchens, theaters and special events that keep life interesting. We're going out gurus, and we're at your service.

Of course, we're happy to answer questions about local entertainment, but we need to hear from you, too. Introduce us to the coolest DJ or the fastest bartender you've encountered. Sound off on the week's best concert or the city's best burger. Tell us about the best place to amuse little kids or a big art fan. Together we can plan fun ways to spend weekdays, weekends, dates and holidays. The pleasure is ours, and yours.

Each week a different guru will act as host or hostess, but the entire staff is at your service. If you're looking for more ideas, see the Entertainment Guide.

The transcript follows.

Editor's Note: Washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions.

_____________

The Going Out Gurus: Hello to everyone out there. It still doesn't feel all that wintry (especially inside Constitution Hall), but we do have all of your holiday activities covered. New Year's Eve info is still trickling in, and we'll continue to give you everything we've got. I'm David, here with Anne, Maura, Fritz, Jen, Rhome, Janet and Alexa. And when we're done here, you won't want to go too far. Alexa and Janet are pulling double duty today, and will be hosting their own Holiday Shopping chat, to cover all of your gift-giving needs. Let's go...

_______________________

Burleith, DC: Living in DC proper, I'm not all that familiar with the outlying metro areas. Tomorrow, I am meeting a friend in Bethesda for dinner around 9. She is from Philly and in for a conference. We are clueless about dining options; can you suggest a restaurant? Advance thanks to the GoGs who have been oh-so-helpful in the past.

Alexa: Burleith, I'm going to steer you towards these: Jaleo, Blacks Bar & Kitchen, Mon Ami Gabi. Have a read. See which you thinks suits your tastes better.

_______________________

Arlington, VA : I'm submitting early (silly, silly work) but I could really use your help, all-knowing GoGs! Friday night my boyfriend and I are going to a show at the Kennedy Center. We'd like to go to dinner downtown after the 7:30 pm show, but we are on a very tight budget. Any recommendations in the area around the Kennedy Center or in Georgetown for an affordable dinner? Thanks, and happy holidays.

Alexa: You could get away with an inexpensive meal at Bistro Francais and they stay open late (if you mean that your show begins at 7:30).

_______________________

Bethesda, MD: Good afternoon, o wise gurus-
I have really enjoyed reading the chats since I moved here at the end of the summer. They are a great resource for someone new to the area!; Now, I am in desperate need of your help. I have yet to find a good place to get my hair cut, and have tried the usual avenues of asking for recommendations from coworkers, etc. Is it possible to get a cut in a real salon in this town for less than $75? I'd really like to find someone in this area, and Metro-accessible would be a big plus, but is not absolutely necessary. Thanks so much!;

Janet: Hi, there, Bethesda,
I feel your pain. It's difficult finding someone to cut your hair, let alone finding a decent hair cut at a decent price. That said, take a look at our Best Bets.

_______________________

Washington D.C. - Northern Virginia: Hi,

I am looking for a romantic venue for a date with my wife tonight. We are in the mid thirties and have been married for 5 years. I will not go as far as to say that money is not an issue, but at least it is not the main issue.

Something a little untraditional would be great, if it is a restaurant suggestion, we love many cuisines especially French, good Italian but are game for other experiences.Alexa: I bet you two could have a romatic little evening at Bistrot Lafayette in Old Town. Or, for Italian by the fire, Ristorante Geranio. Both are on King Street that is very pretty at this time of year.

_______________________

Washington, DC: I'm going to the Army's Christmas concert at the DAR on Saturday night. Afterwards we are going to walk around the ellipse and national Christmas tree. But our problem is before the concert. Can you recommend a place for dinner before the concert that is reasonably priced? There isn't much in that area, but we would like to be semi-close by. Do you have any suggestions? Thanks so much!;

Jen: If you want to be semi-close to the venue, you're going to have a rough time. There is nothing -- and I mean NOTHING -- around there. Before the Pixies concert the other night, we had to eat at Potbelly's, which is fine for what it is but not quite what I had in mind for dinner. Taberna del Alabardero is not too far away, but it's also pricier than what you probably want. Honestly, I'd recommend going to a restaurant that's a little farther away (maybe an Old Ebbitt or something on the other side of the Ellipse), then taking a cab over to Constitution Hall.

_______________________

Rockville, MD: Hi GOGs - Happy Thursday! My boyfriend and I are planning on playing hooky one day next week and we want to treat ourselves to a leisurely lunch, preferably in DC. Where would you go if you had an afternoon to spend? Our requirements - somewhere we can take our time, sip some wine, and not be rushed out the door by our waiter trying to turn tables. A romantic setting would be a plus too! Any cuisine will do and price doesn't matter. Thanks and keep up the good job!

Alexa: I'd go straight to the Tabard Inn -- a gorgeous place to play hookie.

_______________________

Adams Morgan, Washington, D.C.: Hi Gurus, I have a shopping/jewelry design question. I recently inherited from my grandmother a diamond ring. In the 1960s she had the diamond reset in the world's setting, with sort of a large gold rose surrounding the diamond. I would like to take the ring somewhere where they can appraise the diamond and then design a new piece or jewelry around it. Do you have any suggestions of good places to go for this?

with thanks (and appreciation for an always interesting chat!)

Janet: Hi, there, A-M,
Interesting question. Lucky you! I have had good luck going to Boone & Sons. But there are also many other choices around town. Have a look at this list.

_______________________

DOWNTOWN DC: submitting early oh great and powerful guru's... I need a spectacular strapless bra. I can't seem to find one. I'm a 36 C so I need some support... any ideas..?? Please help a really cute dress needs to be worn.

Janet: Two ideas: one in Chevy Chase: Sylene's; the other in Bethesda, Underwraps.

_______________________

College Park (Home of the Terrapin): GOG's, can you tell me more about this Club Hop thing sponsored by AbsoluteAddiction.com? Can you really get access to all those night clubs in midtown? I would like to hear others experiences.

Thanks a bunch

Fritz: Ah, the land of the Turrapin. Rhome, David and I know it well. Yes, you can really get access to all those clubs, although there are lines at all of them, and you don't really "skip" anything by getting the wristband (or I haven't seen a way to do it, at least). I was by Panache two weeks ago to check it out, and it seems legit. Anyone else done the Club Hop?

(For the record, you RSVP and get free admission to Panache, Andalu, Vida, Rumors, Ozio, Sesto Senso and MCCXXIII, and can move among the clubs at will, as they're all "near" 18th and M NW.)

_______________________

Alexandria, VA : This Friday my friends and I are hitting up Adam's Morgan for an all night go out blow out. I am from California and havn't seen the sites there yet. Curious if there are any worthwhile acts playing that night that we should plan on seeing. We are a mid-late 20's group, who value all types of music. Thank you.

Fritz: Live blues at Madam's Organ is always a good Friday night bet, and the crowd is packed, fun and a little rowdy. You may also want to visit the newly reopened Cafe Toulouse for jazz -- it's been reliable in the past -- or the tight reggae acts that play in the window of Bukom Cafe.

_______________________

Silver Spring, MD: Any tips on visiting the Festival of Lights at the Mormon Temple in Kensington? I'm anxious to take my two little girls but am wondering about where to park, what kind of crowds form and when, etc. Thanks.

Jen: I went to this a few years ago at a prime time -- It was two days before Christmas and tons of people were there. But from what I recall, there was still plenty of parking and it's organized enough that you can move from place to place fairly easily. To avoid major crowds, I'd suggest going to the Festival earlier in the evening, especially on a weekday if you can. That should definitely be a lighter time crowd-wise.

_______________________

Crutchin'and Bored in D.C.: Hi GOGs,

I recently had foot surgery and am now on crutches. After moping around being an antisocial couch potato for a month, I'm ready to do something productive or fun again (even though weather is crappy). Any suggestions for what I can do in DC that's not too active but fun (eg. hobbies, events, etc.)

Maura: If you can make it downtown, you could always park your crutches at the National Gallery's Jean Luc Goddard film fest. What about a seat at one of these holiday concerts? And don't forget, these picks for local theater. All should have you out of the house and sitting pretty.

_______________________

Arlington, VA: Gotta pick me!
So... Tallulah.. open and let me tell you something... too many people trying to catch this event all at once. I was in there this past weekend, too crowded, bartenders hustling but only 2 hands will get you so far... cool interior, a bit chilly at times... lots of wine by the glass, good beer selection and I see your point on 'fluffy' martini list, but hey, thats what people want I guess. Maybe when the crowds don't come all at once I will be able to straddle up to the bar and actually have a conversation with the bartenders and findout more about the wines. At least the bar staff doesn't look like they all auditioned for a modeling agency and seem to be a bit more down to earth.

Fritz: Thanks for your take on Tallula. I think we're heading out for a group field trip next week.

_______________________

Reykjavik, Iceland: Just started graduate school at Georgetown and already homesick. Can you fellows point me in the direction of a pub that serves up a good Brennivin or Akvavit. These were a must in picturesque Reykjavik!;

That should wash away my sorrows (for a couple hours at least!;)

Regards

Fritz: The only places I think (or know) I've seen Akvavit in D.C. are restaurant and hotel bars -- Palena, Topaz, those sort of $10 martini joints. Anybody else seen this bracing liqueur at a bar?

_______________________

Washington, DC: I'd like to get a couple of tickets for the Dec. 23 Messiah Singalong at the Kennedy Center. I know they are giving tickets out this Sat. and there is a note that the line forms early ... but do you know how early? When should I get there and how long can I expect to be in line? Thanks, Gurus!;

Anne: The Kennedy Center will distribute tickets for its Messiah singalong at 10 a.m. on Saturday, and yep, this is a very popular event. Singalong veterans, any suggestions for prime arrival time?

_______________________

Washington, D.C.: Hi GOGs,

Friends want to try out Fur this weekend. What's your recommendation for getting there? I've heard it's not in the best of neighborhoods. Thanks!

Fritz: There's a shuttle from the Metro (look for the Hummer every 15 min or so), or you can get a cab. When I was writing my story about Fur, I took a cab there (though my cabbie tried to charge me for an extra zone). The bouncers/people at the front door are good about calling cabs for patrons who are leaving; I think they know they're not in the best neighborhood.

_______________________

Alexandria, Virginia: Before jetting to the West Coast to spend the holidays with our often hostile families, I'd like to take my wife out to dinner and a play. It looks like Tuesday, 12/14, is the only night we can make it work. But what can we do on a Tuesday???

Jen: Here's a list of theater and dance events in the area for that date. One of them will hopefully appeal to you and your wife. If you have to put up with holiday hostility, you should see something fun, maybe "Movin' Out" if you can get tickets. Also, don't forget to check the TICKETplace listings. You might be able to find discounted tickets for a Tuesday performance, which would make it even more worthwhile.

_______________________

Arlington, VA: Has anyone been to the new bar Molly Malone's in Clarendon? One presumes it's an Irish pub, but for a new bar in Clarendon, it has an uncharacteristic lack of publicity.

Fritz: That's because it's not ready for prime time, and it doesn't seem like anything more than a cookie-cutter Irish bar with some nice touches, like a long drink shelf and stone floor.

_______________________

Logan Circle, Washington D.C.: Hi gurus!;

I was wondering if you can recommend a good wine class. Nothing too stodgy - something fun and educational with people in their late 20's-early 40s. Not exclusively for singles (I hate singles things), though meeting/minglnig w/ others would be fun. A one-time class is good, or even a group that meets periodically.

Know of anything that fits the bill? DC (as opposed to MD-VA) strongly preferred.

Thanks!;

Maura: Logan, some area wine shops offer tastings. Check your neighborhood shop, but for a true class try the Washington Wine Academy for starters. There are plenty of singles, but classes are definitely geared towards people who want to learn. Any readers with more recommendations?

_______________________

sadville, dc: Just a heads-up that, since this is the last weekend that Chez Antoine will be open (sob), tomorrow night beginning at 8:00pm they will be having an "empty-the-cooler" party, which will be $25 all you can drink, no restrictions. That's a pretty great deal considering most of the beers run you around $7.50. So come out and say goodbye to the best Belgian beer selection in Adams Morgan!;

Alexa: Yes, no more crepes by Antoine.

_______________________

Alexandria, VA: I'm still too hot!; What is up with Constitution Hall? I was there the other night to see the Pixies (great show) and i must have lost 5 pounds from sweating too much. It felt like 90 degrees in there. It was my first show ever there. Is it always that hot in there or should I give it another chance?

David: It sure was sweltering in Constitution Hall at The Pixies show on Tuesday evening. It was an especially humid night, which probably had a bit to do with it, and it's never been that bad for shows I've been to in the past. Still, it's just another reason this town needs a good mid-sized venue, something in between the 9:30 Club and the Patriot Center. The sound wasn't too bad this time, but it's snever all that clear, and the vocals especially seem to bounce around all over the place.

Jen: I too was at the Pixies on Tuesday and I agree that it was insanely hot. I honestly think the Constitution Hall staff left the heat on despite the fact that it was 60 degrees out. Fortunately I did not pass out, thanks to the good people at the ever-so-convenient Potbelly's who made sure I had some food in my system.
I also agree with David that the venue is not very good for concerts, especially for bands like The Pixies. No offense to the DAR, but the place doesn't exactly scream hardcore rock show. I saw Tori Amos and the great Rufus Wainwright there a few years ago and it was a little better since it was a mellow performance that wasn't conducive to dancing. Still, would rather have a different venue. Perhaps David and I can start one ourselves.

_______________________

Washington, D.C.: Hi Guru's,

Do you know what, if anything, Saint. Ex, Cafe Citron or Felix is planning for New Year's? There will be about 6 or so of us going out, including some out-of-towners. We are looking for a place that we can go to dinner and stay on for evening activies, without paying a hefty door price. We'd also love a fun, young crowd (not college-y though!;)

Thanks!;

Fritz: Well, two of those choices haven't made up their minds, Washington, which is why the New Year's Guide is more frustrating than usual. I spoke to a manager at Cafe Citron yesterday, who said they'll "probably" have food and champagne splits and a DJ, and "probably" charge $40 or $50, but they don't know yet. I was at Saint-Ex last night, and they, too, haven't formulated a plan, although they're leaning towards just opening the place up -- but haven't settled on a DJ, cover (if any) or specials.

But I'm happy to tell you that you can read about the miriad options at Felix here.

_______________________

Birthday Conundrum: Help GoGs!;
I'm turning 26 next week and am having alot of trouble deciding how I want to celebrate. I'd like to enjoy Saturday night out with a small group of friends someplace that is nice enough to be -kinda- dressy (ie. jeans but no sneaks) but not too expensive. I would love it if our feet don't stick to the floor and we don't have to yell to hear each other. At the same time, I'd prefer the place to be upbeat enough that if we wanted to mingle, we could. I did Topaz 2 years ago and it was great but don't want to do it again. I'm open to DC or NoVa. Thanks!;

Rhome: I think the key to getting the nice vibe without getting slammed with crowds, noise or inflation is to hit the fancy spots early. You won't pay a cover and you can actually sit at the bar. By the time it really picks up you'll have been able to enjoy some drinks and conversation in peace and then you can decide whether to stick with the increasing density of people or head to your next spot. I bet the folks who have been lukewarm about Blue Gin lately would have a different opinion if they weren't trying to cram in at peak time. ESL could work for you too, as could Mie-N-Yu and Modern.

_______________________

Capitol Hill, Washington, D.C.: Submitting early b/c I have a lunch. Thinking about headed to HR-57 on Saturday night. Any idea on who will be there? Also where might a good place to eat be around there? Not a picky eater at all but dont eat a ton of ethnic food. Thanks guys.

Fritz: It's jazz pianist Eric Lewis this weekend. No word if he'll have a quartet with him or what.

If you don't like soul food and Southern cooking -- which HR-57 does simply and well -- then the neighborhood offers Rice, Raku, Logan Tavern and the restaurant at the Helix hotel. Oh, and Hamburger Mary's, which is fun, but can be a touch overrated.

_______________________

Falls Church Molly malone: Went to Molly Malone -- it is pretty cookie cutter -- almost chain-like -- small place and expensive beer. They have a singer to sits on top of the fireplace and sings (kind of like the guy at Potbellys...), but we left right before he got started

Fritz: Lucky you. And I paid $6 for a bad -- and I mean nasty -- Smithwick's. They offered me another beer, at least.

_______________________

West End, Alexandria: Y'all don't happen to know any good butchers, do you? We want to make a nice roast beef for Christmas but groceries don't seem to sell any meats that are good for dry roasting, rather they all seem to sell the pot-roast grade of beef. Don't really mind travelling, but my home and work are in Alexandria so I don't think I really want to go too far.

Thanks!;

Alexa: Oh no. You can get a fine rib roast at Whole Foods. That's where I might go. Safeway has some similar cuts, but they won't be organic.

_______________________

Arlington, Va.: There's a new bar/restaurant in Clarendon right across from Mr. Days on Highland, looks small, do you all wise and wonderful Gurus know anything about it yet?

Also, Molly Malone's, really that bad? Is Four Courts a better choice for "generic Irish pub" in Arlington?

Fritz: We've covered Eleventh a few times in this chat -- I'm a big fan. Very laid-back, nice break from the other other bars in the neighborhood. Four Courts is so superior to Molly Malones -- even more so now that the Four Courts has a non-smoking room.

_______________________

Arlington, VA: Hello Gurus,
My sister is coming to visit this weekend. I have Friday night covered... we're going to see Better Than Ezra at the 9:30. I'm looking for fun things to do during the day on Saturday. Right now my plan is to do shopping and lunch in Georgetown. Are there any fun daytime events going on around town this Saturday?

Maura: Surprise, surprise, there are plenty of holiday-related activities. You might want to see the Botanic Garden's holiday display, complete with vintage ornaments. If you don't want to cross town, Georgetown has its own tree tourGovinda and Addison/Ripley galleries.

_______________________

Washington, D.C.: This isn't really a going out question per se, but I have a couple of cell phones and old computer equipment (printer, keyboard, etc), what are some places I can donate them? I was thinking a battered women's shelter, some sort of education thing for disadvantaged people, etc.

Thanks

Anne: I'm glad you asked, D.C., because I was wondering about this myself. Generations of Hope (202-562-7118), Byte Back and Digital Sisters are some groups in D.C. that take used PCs and help schools with them. A bunch of places take used cell phones, including Sprint stores (benefits Easter seals), Staples and Office Depot stores. You might ask around at any similar store and see if they do cell phone recycling.

_______________________

Rib roast: Whole foods does have them, but be aware that you have to pre-order for the holidays. Call any whole foods and ask for the holiday desk. I have already reserved mine!;

Alexa: A good reminder. Thanks.

_______________________

Old Town: My mother is coming to visit my husband and I for Christmas - she used to live in the area but moved back to her native England about five years ago. I'd like to take her for some Christmassy-type activities - any suggestions on some new!; exciting!; things to do that she may not have seen when she lived here?

Maura: Old Town, you might try the aforementioned Botanic Garden display. From there you could even walk up to Union Station's Norweigian Christmas. Sorry to say you'll miss this weekend's bazaar, but the decorations alone might do. Mount Vernon is always a good bet this time of year. If you can hang on until the 26th, downtown Frederick is leading a holiday decor tour (Call 301-644-4047 for details). And don't forget our holiday guide for more ideas.

_______________________

Pentagon Cubicle: GoGs: I'm a Zatinya/Gazuza/Off the Record kinda gal. Where can I go for a swanky martini fix when I want a less wallet-intensive outing? Will drive/Metro anywhere, but Arlington and NW DC are the most easily accessible.

Fritz: Half-price drinks daily from 5 to 7 at Topaz and Rouge come to mind, or you can head to 201 on the Hill. (Easy Blue Line trip from Arlington...

_______________________

Takoma Park, MD: My mom and I are going out for our weekly dinner tomorrow night and I want to try someplace new!; Preferably in Rockville since I've got some (gulp) holiday shopping to do. We're adventurous and love all sorts of food. The only stipulation is that the vegetarian options have to be decent.

And yes, I've been to both Vegetable Garden and Yuan Fu.

Anne: Well, those are the biggies, and some of the only 100 percent vegetarians restaurants around. So you'll probably have to go to a restaurant that has some non-meat options. Depending on which end of Rockville you want, how about Thyme Square Cafe in Bethesda, or further north, Bombay Bistro? I also have good memories of a Mexican place in the Richie Center -- at Rockville Pike and Wooton Parkway.

_______________________

Capitol Hill, Washington, D.C.: GOGS - Love the chats, keep up the good work! My husband and I are taking a great dance class (latin and ballroom) and want to go out somewhere to practice our moves. We are in our twenties and will travel to dance. Any ideas on good spots?

Fritz: For salsa? Check tomorrow's Weekend section for details on Yuca, a Cuban restaurant with the lively Saturday night salsa scene around. I'm also partial to Habana Village and Clarendon Grill on Mondays for beginners.

_______________________

NW DC: Hey Gurus, Is it outdoor ice skating season yet? And if so, where? Thanks

David: The National Gallery's Ice Skating Rink opened last month and is always very popular. Here is a list of area skating spots.

_______________________

Silver Spring, MD: Any suggestions where to find mistletoe for my Christmas party?

Maura: Pucker up: Johnson's Flower and Garden Center should do.

_______________________

For the bra-seeker: Try the Dorne Corset Shop in Silver Spring. Those ladies know their stuff.

Maura: Ah, the corset shop, of course.

_______________________

Arlington, VA: Trying to lend a hand:
Get there EARLY for Messiah tickets -- Before 8 a.m. I got there around 7:30 and snagged lovely seats. Crazies line up the night before, though, so it's up to you.

Delicious aquavit? Russia House.

Anne: Absolutely. Listen up -- the Kennedy Center confirms that people will start camping out on Friday night. Others will arrive at dawn, and the KenCen experts think you should too if you want to guarantee seats. They're even bringing in an a capella group to entertain you from 8-10. The ticket distribution itself will take about two hours.

_______________________

Washington, D.C.: Where does one find a date in this town?

Rhome: Outside of your home, unless you've got the internet, but we recommend you leave your house because we're the Going Out Gurus.

_______________________

Washington, D.C.: Hello GOGs!

Meridian International Center is hosting a Holiday Turkish Bazaar tonight (Dec. 9) from 6:30 - 9:30 pm. Still holiday shopping? Then Meridian is the place to be! Its historic homes are beautifully decorated for the season, and vendors will be selling hand-made jewelry, Turkish wine, Oriental rugs, Ottoman lamps, kilims, ceramics and more. Featuring food from Meze, one of DC's finest Turkish restaurants. Also, view Meridian's new Turkish art exhibition and enter a raffle to win artwork by some of the artists, plus other exciting prizes! Admission is FREE! Valet Parking! 1630 Crescent Place, NW, off 16th St. just above Florida Ave. Call 202.939.5568 for info. Bring all your friends - the more the merrier!

Maura: Sounds like fun -- and worthy of a plug. Hear that, shoppers?

_______________________

Cell phone Donations: You can donate your old phones to this organization started by some kids to help soldiers in Iraq keep in touch with friends/family back home...here is the Website: http://www.cellphonesforsoldiers.com/pages/15/index.htm

Anne: Here's another good cause, and there are many. And like I said, the ones I listed are just examples, and many similar stores will help you out. Maura's turned her phones in at Verizon.

_______________________

Bethesda, Maryland: Do you know of any good happy hour places in Bethesda?

Fritz: A few weeks back, our happy hour of the week was Rock Botton's $1 "happy hour and a half," with $1 brews from 5:30 to 7. Still highly recommended. Also, Mon Ami Gabi has wine deals and Austin Grill offers cheap beers and margartitas. Tommy Joe's isn't bad for half-price burgers and cheap drinks.

_______________________

Mistletoe: Just wanted to put a friendly warning out about mistletoe for anyone who is going to buy it for the holidays - be careful with it, it is toxic to pets.

Maura: Yes, watch for the pets, please.

_______________________

Falls Church, VA: Guru,
My husband and I and a bunch of friends (mid to late 30's) are looking for a New Year's Eve event...we'd like to get all dressed up and dance our feet off. Any suggestions?

Fritz: What kind of music and price point are you looking for?

_______________________

Dupont Circle, Washington, D.C.: My boyfriend is taking me to the Kennedy Center for New Year's Eve for a show and the dancing afterwards, but there isn't much of a description on their website. Other than the fact that we'll probably be younger than everyone else by a decade or so, what else should we expect? And do you know what the dress code is (I was thinking formal dress)?

Thanks!

Jen: I've never been so I can't tell you exactly to expect. Since it's New Year's Eve, I'd advise formal dress: Cocktail dress for ladies, jacket and tie for men.

_______________________

Arlington, VA: Hi!; GOGs.

I'm trying to find a laid back, inexpensive option for NYE. I do not particularly want to deal with the hub bub of going downtown. Is there anything outside of the city that doesn't cost too much? Are there any options for me or am I out of luck?

Fritz: It all depends on what you're looking for. In Arlington alone, you've got a bunch of options for, say, $30 or less, from the great house-music DJs All Good Funk Alliance, who are performing for free at Continental, to rock covers by Back to Zero at Whitlow's on Wilson, to Last Train Home's alt-county at IOTA. There's a good party at Clarendon Grill for $40, but that price includes food and a couple of drink tickets, as well as champagne and a DJ.

_______________________

Club Hop: Did the club hop thing last month...it was pretty fun--except the bouncers at Sesto Senso insisted we pay a $5 cover. I was shocked--since our group consisted of 4 very hot girls from Hawaii!;!; Needless to say we left, and headed to 1223 instead...their loss....

Fritz: Indeed. I've heard that some of these clubs try to charge extra by claiming they have a special event or guest DJ on -- you've been warned.

_______________________

Bethesda HH: The Daily Grill has $3 apps from 4:30 to 8:00 and some ok drink specials. It has a patio in the summer that's nice; not sure if it is open right now.

Fritz: Another MoCo option... Thanks.

_______________________

Washington, DC: Hi. I'm going to Adams Mill Bar in Adams Morgan on Friday night with a few friends. How do people dress there? Thanks.

Fritz: Jeans, sweaters, t-shirts, ballcaps. No dress code.

_______________________

Washington, D.C: Pearl on Thursday, jeans or no jeans? For ladies that is.......

Fritz: I'm sure ladies can get away with anything if they arrive early.

_______________________

Montgomery Village, MD: Hi GOGs -

First off, a little apology, I seem to have trouble submitting, so if this has gotten to you numerous times, I apologize.

I've got a couple of questions that I was hoping you could help with. I seem to remember that Baltimore had a huge lights display last year - are they doing it this year? I missed it before and was hoping to go this year. Miracle on 34th street or something like that?

The other question - any place you'd recommend me to take my boyfriend tomorrow for dinner after the Nutcracker at the Warner Theater? We'll be a little dressed up, and would like to go out for a nice meal....preferably under $100 for the two of us. I know there are a lot of options in that area....what do you recommend?

Thanks so much!;

Anne: The lights are on at the Miracle on 34th Street, hon. This is a block of Christmas decorating-obsessed neighbors who go all out. I'm working on a list of other community wonders. In the meantime, if you're into lights, there's also the drive-thru displays. As for dining out, new-ish Aria is super close by, and Butterfield 9 is glam. Here's some more very close by restaurants.

_______________________

HELP!; Please Answer!;: I hate New Years. I hate the build up, the crowds, the high prices, and the pressure. However, I love to go out and I don't want to be sitting at home alone. My girlfriend feels the same way I do, and we want to try to plan something together (in DC only!;). We're mid-late 20s, don't want huge crowds, don't want to spend alot of money (none of the pay x amount and drink all night). I was thinking maybe dinner somewhere funky and fun, then drinks afterwards somewhere we won't have to fight for drinks or feel like we're the only 2 single people left in America. Any suggestions??

Fritz: How about the Kimpton hotels? Helix and Bar Rouge are offering a deal with DJs, drinks, etc. $20 and you can move between both spots all night long. They're promising it won't get too crowded. We'll see...

_______________________

Fort Washington, MD: I am celebrating my 30th birthday in the next month and I want to do it up!;!; I need a fabulous place to have a party with maybe 60-70 people. Like maybe a club with a great DJ (hip-hop, R&B, old school) where you can reserve an area just for my group and that will not cost an arm and a leg. If the club/lounge will let me have a guest list to avoid cover, that would be perfect. Any ideas???

Rhome: You can give Juste Lounge a call and see what y'all can haggle on. Aroma would be perfect when Dredd is playing but they might be too small for your group.

_______________________

Arlington, VA: First of all, to the Tribe Gurus, and the Tribe alums in the area, Go William and Mary!; We play JMU in the IAA NCAA Playoffs Friday!; And we're gonne bring a whoopin...

My question is: Me and a buddy are looking to have a joint birthday bash at a local bar. Nothing too nice, nothing too bobo. Maybe along the Hatters, Porter's line. Just something where we can get an area for our group, and maybe some drink deals. Suggestions?

Fritz: Stetson's would be my first choice, followed by 51st State Porter's -- I know both will give you the upstairs for a party.

_______________________

Foggy Bottom, Washington, D.C.: Hey, love the chats always some great info... I will be going to see the great Citizen Cope at the Black Cat Saturday night. Are there any cool places nearby where me and my date can grab a good bite to eat before the show? Thanks.

Fritz: Saint-Ex, Opera (formerly Kuna), The Islander and Polly's Cafe get high marks from us.

_______________________

Georgetown, Washington, D.C.: Hey GOGS - any of you soccer fans and been to London? I'm thinking of going this April, May, June, or July for a week and want to get tickets? I've never been but want the true European soccer experience? Suggestions on getting discount tickets and hot teams?

Fritz: Well, the season ends in early-to-mid May, so that's one factor. Another is Tickets -- unless you want to pay $150 per seat (scalped or not), you'll have to ignore the powerhouses like Arsenal and Chelsea; At Arsenal these days, you have to be a "member" to have a chance of getting tickets, and evey game is sold out. Same is true of Charlton. Instead, I'd recommend you go see a smaller club for the true (and cheap) experience -- try Leyton Orient (a favorite of Joe's and mine), in what's almost a minor league, or maybe West Ham if you're feeling brave.

_______________________

The Going Out Gurus: That does it for us. For the record, here and here are two lists of NYE activities. The first list has lots of bar events and First Night events; the second one has more specific music performances, such as The Pietasters at the 9:30 Club or Last Train Home at IOTA. We'll keep updating things when we get the info, but a lot of places are slacking this year. Check back with us next week for the latest. We'll talk to you then.

_______________________