Whether you’re heading out for a big event or just having some friends over for a low-key celebration, here are a few items to pass along as we ring in the New Year.

Safety First

The state Department of Public Safety this week noted that Minnesota has not had a drunk-driving traffic death on New Year’s Eve/Day for the past four years.

“All it takes is one bad decision for our roads to turn deadly,” State Patrol Lt. Eric Roeske said in a release. “In many cases, that bad decision occurs when someone decides get behind the wheel after a night of drinking.”

In Woodbury, police encourage people to get their plans in place before they begin their New Year’s Eve revelry. See: A Perfect Party Means Planning Ahead

Mixology

Last year, Patch asked area bartenders for some of their favorite holiday drinks. Check out videos on how to make them here:

• Lakes Tavern's 'Midnight Dream'
• Sunsets of Woodbury's 'Crime of Passion'

Family Fun

If tickets are still available, the city puts on an annual New Year’s Eve celebration with the countdown starting early for youngsters. See: Celebrate New Year’s Eve, Family Style, in Woodbury

Also, Holiday Lights in the Park, run in coordination with Woodbury’s King of Kings Lutheran, runs through New Year’s Day. It’s at Phalen Park in St. Paul.

Resolutions

If you’re mulling a resolution this year, here’s what folks in Woodbury have said about making and keeping them.

Words From Woodbury: New Year's Resolutions

New Year's Resolutions in Woodbury

New Year’s Resolutions (blog post)

Healthy Body Beginning

Maximizing New Year’s Resolutions in Woodbury

New Year's Yawn (blog post)

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