This New Yorker actually wants to get out of town for the New Year's weekend and is looking for some suggestions. Usually I stay in NY with SO and alternate between small parties with friends or a just for the 2 of us dinner/movie or music somewhere.
Last year, we decided to go to Newport RI and enjoyed that a lot--good food, lots of small local community events (skating, music etc)on New Years eve. A Great brunch another day, chance to bundle up and see some sights on other days.
Any good idea for something that sound similar, not too far a drive from NYC? Anything interesting to do in Saratoga Springs? Somewhere in the Berkshires? I thought about Boston and the first night events, but thought it might just be too crowded and hectic--if I wanted that I could stay in NY!

topping

Having lived in the Berkshires, there generally is a small event in Pittsfield for the First Night but nothing major. I would assume that Albany or Saratoga would have a bigger event but nowhere as crowded as a major city

Portsmouth NH has a great NYE celebration, although it's more like a 5 hour drive from NYC.

http://www.proportsmouth.org/firstnight.cfm

Now that it's already a week after Thanksgiving, is anyone in the New Year's mood and has any ideas?
Anywhere in MD, PA, DE worth considering? NYS and New England are still in the running for me.
Just looking for a nice place to hang out, with good food choices, something to do over the weekend, and some low key activity for New Years eve itself

We lived near Saratoga in the late 90's, and they had a great New Year's celebration. I don't remember what it was called, but it was family friendly and a lot of fun. The downtown area was nice, and it really came alive during the holidays. There were lots of good restaurants and such, and I would assume that it is even better now. If you go, please let us know how it goes.

Have you considered staying on the outer Cape (Cod) for the weekend? Eastham is a convenient location since it is only a few minutes to fine dining in Orleans and mid-way (within 30 minutes) of both Chatham and Provincetown. The Cape Cod National Seashore may have some holiday programs during the day if you are interested in being outside. www.nps.gov/caco Chatham has First Night activities and Provincetown always has entertainment around that holiday time. (Check out the Crown and Anchor) Perhaps the cape is too far for you to drive (5 hours) but once you are there you won't have to search too hard to find something to do. Stay someplace with a fireplace and if the weather gets nasty you can just stay in and gaze at the ocean!

Albany no longer has a First Night celebration because everyone in the area went to the one in Saratoga. Saratoga's is one of the largest in the Northeast:

http://www.ymcasaratoga.org/firstnight/