In the midst of a struggling economy, Durham residents will have more options to bring in 2009.

According the Durham Convention and Visitor's bureau, Durham will have two more New Year's Eve events this year than last. Reyn Bowman with the Durham CVB says the increase in festivities -- nine in all -- is likely due to businesses trying to increase end-of-the-year profits. Bowman says it's likely fewer people will travel out of town, as well, which creates a fertile market for New Year's events.

Bowman added that optimism about the upcoming Obama administration could also contribute to the increased options.

According to the Durham CVB, the following events are planned for New Year's Eve:

Blue Year's Eve Ball
Featuring DJ LV & DJ Awsum. Admission $15 plus membership fee. Private LGBT club.
December 31, 2008
8 p.m.
Club Steel Blue, 1426 S. Miami Blvd. Ste. A
(919) 596-5876
Map | Driving Directions

Lil Steve & the Blue Notes (Live Music)
New Year's Eve Bash.
December 31, 2008
10 p.m.
Pizza Palace, 3218 Guess Rd.
(919) 620-9700
Map | Driving Directions

New Year's at Noon
Ring in the new year with traditional black-eyed peas, collard greens and more. 12:00 noon.
December 31, 2008
12 p.m.
Durham Center for Senior Life, 406 Rigsbee Ave
(919) 688-8247
Map | Driving Directions

New Year's at the 'Hook
Featuring The Wusses, followed by DJ Sleazy McQueen, Ronnie Savage, Mitch Neptune, Brian El Diego. Membership fee $2. Call for admission charge.
December 31, 2008
10 p.m.
The Pinhook, 117 W. Main St.
(919) 667-1100
Map | Driving Directions

New Year's Eve Gala Package
Featuring a five-course gourmet dinner with wine pairings; music and dancing to the sounds of the renowned Eve Cornelious and The Chip Crawford Trio; a midnight toast; overnight accommodations in one of the Inn's deluxe guest rooms; and, the Inn's outstanding traditional breakfast buffet with additional down-home New Year's Day favorites including hoppin' John, greens and cornbread. Formal attire suggested. Reservations required. Cost $435/couple, $250/single.
December 31, 2008
9 p.m.
Washington Duke Inn & Golf Club, 3001 Cameron Blvd.
(919) 490-0999
Map | Driving Directions

Papa Mojos New Year's Eve Bash
A Mardi gras style party complete with beads, masks, hats, noisemakers, party favors and champagne toast at midnight. Featuring Mel Melton & the Wicked Mojos. Tickets $20.
December 31, 2008
9 p.m.
Papa Mojos Roadhouse, 5410-Y Highway 55
(919) 361-2222
Map | Driving Directions

Roaring 20's New Year's Eve BASH
Dress in your favorite 20's Costume! Includes drinks all night, hors d'oeuvres, entertainment, and a ride home. Tickets $75 per person or $140 per couple.
December 31, 2008
9 p.m.
Down Under Pub, 802 W. Main St.
(919) 682-0039
Map | Driving Directions

Duke vs Loyola, Md - Mens Basketball
December 31, 2008
4 p.m.
Cameron Indoor Stadium, Science Dr, Duke University West Campus
(919) 681-2583
Map | Driving Directions

New Year's Eve Party
Featuring John Ferguson, John Dee Holeman, Boo Hanks, Cap'n Luke, Macavine Hayes, and The Rip It Ups! Featuring heavy hors d'oeuvres, cash bar, and complimentary champagne toast at midnight. Tickets $20.
December 31, 2008
8 p.m. doors open, 9pm music.
Broad Street Café, 1116 Broad St.
(919) 416-9707
Map | Driving Directions

Source: www.durhameventcalendar.com