The disco ball will drop again next year …

Really? Your New Year’s plans consist of sitting on the sofa and hoping you stay awake to watch the disco ball drop? I’m not judging. How could I? I’ve spent the past five years doing exactly that (and have only made it to midnight twice).

I say we start 2011 with something a little more memorable. Something a little less pathetic. Something … like … First Night!!!

• Live music
• Fun run
• Ice skating
• Comedy sets
• Art exhibits
• Rail jams
• Talent shows
• Yoga lessons
• Kung Fu fighting
• Fireworks

Everything’s included for one crazy-low price ($12 before the event; $15 day-of; kids 10 & under are free with a button-wearing adult), and you can check out as many attractions as you like. Just flash your First Night button at the guy guarding the entrance, and you’re in. That’s life behind the velvet rope, baby. Click here to find pre-event ticket outlets.

Whether you’re hoping for a swoon-worthy night with your sweetie; a great gathering place for you and your girlfriends; or a fun-filled family night (and, perhaps, a way to assuage the panic that froths up each time you realize this’ll be the last New Year’s Eve you’ll spend with your kid before he’s officially – gulp – an adult) downtown Spokane is the place you’ll want to be.

You know what? Why not make it a staycation? I mean, you’ll already be up and out of the house. Check out some local hotel deals here .

First Night Spokane celebrates its 10th anniversary this year! Click here for a full schedule. You won’t want to miss a thing!