MONDAY, DEC. 31 2012 >>>

1. A legitimate excuse for frivolous hedonism comes but once a year, so we say make the most of it. Don a silly hat (everyone else will look stupid, too), pop a magnum of champagne and blow your horn: 2012 is finally done. Check out the Weekly Volcano's New Year's Eve Command Center for South Sound parties and events.

2. The Children's Museum of Tacoma will host a parade through its awesome space at noon. Expect noisemakers, "sparklers" and more. Aaaah.

3. ZooLights at Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium is as much of a holiday tradition as the choking down an eggnog latte that contains never real egg or real nog. A stroll through the magnificent light display sounds really soothing tonight, instead of, you know, drinking and falling down. The lights flip on at 5 p.m.

4. The Middle Floor Merchants inside Sanford & Son Antiques will host a New Year's Eve Prefunk offering snacks and a special "Happy New Year" gift bag to the first 50 shoppers that spend $25 or more in its shops. It kicks off at 6 p.m.

5. First Night is a coordinated international phenomenon with hundreds of cities worldwide manifesting (relatively) drunk-free celebrations that allow people not interested in being totally smashed to come out of their homes to celebrate New Year’s. In Tacoma, past celebrations have included giant puppets, parades, pirates, racing pigs, rolling heads, music, performers, fireworks, medieval sword fights and more. First Night is back with a Mayan calendar theme this year, as well as a scavneger hunt, giant snake, fire and tons of music. Venues for this year’s offerings are all about Broadway — the Rialto Theater, Theater on the Square, the Pantages and indoor and outdoor spots from Seventh to 13 streets. Click here for the First Night Tacoma full schedule.

LINK: Monday, Dec. 31 arts and entertainment events in the greater Tacoma and Olympia area