Best annual event

Every place likes to think it's original, but with First Night, Boston lives up to the claim. Since 1976, this monster-size celebration has taken over the city every New Year's Eve, with parades, performances, ice sculptures, and fireworks. The swell festivities have since inspired 200 other cities to adopt the First Night model, though few pull in the number of revelers that Boston does. Free outdoor activities are plentiful, and a low-cost button lets you leave the frosty air for indoor theater, dance, and musical performances until the year rolls over.

For those who prefer some sunshine with their celebrations, the Head of the Charles Regatta is just the ticket. The world's largest two-day rowing regatta, which recently celebrated its 39th year, draws 300,000 spectators, ostensibly to watch 7000 athletes compete in 21 events. But many come just to soak up the beauty of a fall day along the Charles, not to mention the excellent date bait -- lots of attractive people, a built-in subject of conversation, and ample light to see whom you're talking to.

First Night Boston, (617) 542-1399; Head of the Charles, www.hocr.org.