The best things to do over New Year in Shanghai

It’s no secret that many of us are happy to see the back end of 2009 and are keener than ever to ring in the New Year. Tomorrow’s Shanghai-bound party-goers are met with a dizzying range of choices.

As one of Shanghai’s ultimate event sources, we had to consult the party folks at Smart Shanghai before the big night out. With an oh-so-thoughtful New Year’s Eve guide not only do they list this year’s hottest venues ranging from ultra posh to eardrum-deafening, they also take care of our ravenous mid-morning appetites and last-minute champagne needs.

Some notables include Gosney & Kallman’s Chinatown, whose burlesque revival has taken the city by storm. Tomorrow night’s party is sure not to disappoint, but come with an open mind, or best not to come at all.

Construction passed the point of annoyance months ago, but the Bund still remains the hot party spot for many on New Year’s Eve. Fan or no, Lost Heaven and its Electrograss Music Festival is one party to consider. It's one of the few, if not the only place off the strip where you can step in without paying a cent.

For those looking for something in the gay scene, City Weekend continues to drum up the LGBeaT, offering plenty of party options for Shanghai’s growing and glowing, with pride that is, LGBT community. Check out this year’s end-of-the-gay-year celebrations here.

Those humming to Auld Lang Syne on a more docile note can choose to take in some classical tunes by renowned conductor Riccardo Muti at Shanghai’s Grand Theatre, or one of the city’s famous acrobatic shows snuggled inside the Shanghai Center.

FAME fans, sorry, tomorrow night’s show is sold out, but there are still a few days left before the cast pack their bags.

Culture vultures striving to experience Shanghai beyond the Bund and Xintiandi can choose to celebrate local-style at one of the city’s historic temples. About.com’s Shanghai-based China Travel Guide Sara Naumann fills you in on the most popular spots including Shanghai’s oldest and largest Longhua Temple, known for its famous Western New Year festivities.