“I like to drink champagne and have fireworks, and, of course, kiss my husband. Then I call everyone on their cell phone to wish them a happy new year.”

— Karolina Jones, account manager, Dallas

“I usually just have friends over and watch the ball drop.”

— James Buck Bardeen, electrical engineer, Los Angeles

“I like to stay home with friends and family, and stay away from the drunk drivers.”

— Amanda Lovett, teacher, Lawrence

“I like to spend New Year's with close friends, but not at a big party. I prefer a more intimate environment, maybe at a friend's house, to a stranger's party.”

— Zach Carleton, social worker, Denver