Party Expert

Indiana has seen its first days of December and it appears we’re in for another snow-filled holiday season, equipped with lopsided snowmen, gaudy house decorations and endless reruns of It’s a Wonderful Life. While most are dreaming of a white Christmas, I’m wondering how the incoming weather will affect Indy nightlife. As Hoosiers, we have the privilege of seeing every season pass. We also have the misfortune of going clubbing in Arctic conditions for three months out of the year. Here are some pointers to help you transition into the cold weather season without missing a hot beat.

With friends and family coming home for the holidays and the snow levels reaching record highs, the winter season has become a time of serious preplanning. Barhopping all over Ripple can cause frostbite, so ensure face time with all your friends by getting everyone to agree upon one destination. You can be lavish and reserve a bar for your festivities or just corral the crew at the local pub. Either way, a little more effort will guarantee you see all your buddies without putting in the hellish footwork.

Just because the temperature drops below freezing point doesn’t mean you have to dress like an Eskimo. That’s why clubs invented coat check. Three shirts and a sweater may seem like a good idea while standing in your closet at home, but after hours of dancing in the sauna that is an Indy nightclub you’ll wish you’d opted for shorts and a tank top. If your hotspot doesn’t have coat check, remember that “designated driver” also translates to “designated outerwear watcher.”

This winter, roads will be icy and crowded with people drunk with holiday spirit — not optimal driving conditions for the not-so-sober clubber. Make it your goal to find a reliable holiday driver. I’ve found that younger relatives will bend over backwards to impress their older kin.

So, the next time you need a ride at 3 a.m. call your cousin crashing on your grandma’s couch. He will appreciate you for seeing him as an asset, admire you for being the “cool” relative and, most importantly, you’ll get a ride home. So, have a happy holiday and maintain your crazy social life. Hopefully, with the use of some of these tips, you’ll be down to throw back some shots, belt out some carols and let it snow all winter long.