Graduate students Claire Granskog, left, and Sarah Sheff enjoy drinks with friends March 29, 2014, at Crunchy's. Crunchy's is often know for its karaoke nights. Allison Brooks/The State News
The Cotton Bowl game featuring the matchup of MSU vs. Alabama is right around the corner, and it's never too early to start making plans.
Last-minute plane tickets to Dallas might be out of the question for most people, but that doesn't mean it's impossible to have a good time back in East Lansing.
Many local restaurants and bars will be having watch parties for the game and other specials to ring in the New Year in the best way.
The State News compiled a list of just some of the businesses that will be rocking on New Years Eve.
FieldHouse
Ring in the New Year with a champagne toast at FieldHouse for their NYE Spartan Watch Party.
In addition to the toast, there will be a pizza buffet and party favors. The MSU vs. Alabama game will obviously be on, but there will also be a DJ and dancing.
According to the Facebook event, the restaurant is now taking reservations for tables and booths. Discounts will be offered if attendees pay in advance.
Harper's Restaurant and Brewpub
It's one price for two venues at Harper's and RUSH Spartan New Years Eve Bash.
Harper's and RUSH are selling advanced tickets for $20 and $30 for a night of food, drinks and a large balloon drop at midnight.
The MSU vs. Alabama game will be on 20 flat screen TVs in Harper's and 17 new TVs in RUSH — the club attached to Harper's.
An unlimited tapas buffet will be offered 5 p.m. to midnight and a breakfast buffet will begin at midnight.
In addition to the food, there will be a champagne toast at midnight and other activities such as a free photo booth and party favors.
The party will go until 4 a.m.
Buffalo Wild Wings
Loud music and dancing isn't everyone's scene.
So if just watching the game and having a few drinks with friends is more your speed, Buffalo Wild wings might be the spot for you.
It has multiple big screen TVs for showing MSU vs. Alabama and other games happening that day.
The restaurant boasts a long list of beer and "the finest wings." Even better – the restaurant has Boneless Thursdays where boneless wings are specially priced all day.
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Crunchy's East Lansing
For those who are a fan of the burgers and beer at Crunchy's, they can celebrate the New Year at the bar and restaurant, as it will be open.
Mike Krueger, owner and general manager of Crunchy's, said this is new for them and the restaurant usually closes on New Years Eve so employees can spend time with family.
He said the restaurant will be running it's normal Thursday specials but he might bring in some champagne to hopefully toast a Spartan victory.
Rick's American Cafe
If you're looking to have a wild New Year's Eve celebration, definitely head straight to Rick's.
The bar and restaurant will open at 6 p.m. and offering free pizza until 9 p.m. Drinks will be half off until 10 p.m. Before and after the game, ICE DJ's will be playing music.
