BY JONAS BEALS

THE HOLIDAYS HAVE come fast and furious, but there's still one left. New Year's Eve is the Sunday of the holiday season--it's still a party day, but you know that once it's over, it's back to the grind.

That makes New Year's Eve a tough night to reckon with. Even if you plan to party like Andrew W.K., you need the right venue to keep your spirits high throughout the evening--a place designed to entertain you and attract like-minded party people who don't want the night, the holiday season or the year to end.

Here are some suggestions that should extend your joy for at least a few more hours.

Jonas Beals: 540/368-5036
Email: jbeals@freelancestar.com

NO BS! BRASS AT THE CAMEL

A dynamite cross between a marching band and a New Orleans second-line funk group, this Richmond collective is one of the more high-energy bands working today. I can pretty much guarantee this will be a sweaty, exhilarating way to ring in the new year. With the Green Boys.

Cost: $20

When: 7 p.m.

Where: 1621 W. Broad St., Richmond

Info: 804/353-4901; thecamel.org

ERIN JACKSON AT COURTYARD MARRIOTT

If music isn't your thing, but you still want some entertainment for your New Year's Eve, maybe comedy will do the trick. Check out a couple of national acts right here in town. With Jon Mumma.

Cost: $35-$55

When: Two shows, 7:30 p.m. and 10 p.m.

Where: 620 Caroline St., Fredericksburg

Info: coolcowcomedy.com

LITTLE FEAT AT THE HAMILTON

If you're going to spend an important evening out, you might as well be among old friends who also happen to play some of the greatest songs in rock history. Put on your Sailing Shoes and toast the new year with your Dixie Chicken.

Cost: $84-$99

When: 9 p.m.

Where: 600 14th St. NW, Washington, D.C.

Info: 202/787-1000; thehamiltondc.com

THE INFAMOUS STRINGDUSTERS AT THE JEFFERSON THEATER

If you want to hear bluegrass, but want it with a little more kick, you could do worse than the Stringdusters, a band that takes traditional music in a very progressive direction. Basically, it's bluegrass that'll blow your mind. With jazzy folk outfit Lake Street Dive.

Cost: $35-$40

When: 7:30 p.m.

Where: 110 E. Main St., Charlottesville

Info: 434/245-4948; jeffersontheater.com

PAPADOSIO AT THE NATIONAL