Ring in the new at Ponte Family Winery

It’s time again to celebrate the good old days, celebrate new friends and break out those dancing shoes! Ring in the new year right at Ponte Winery as they celebrate four fantastic decades: the Roaring ’20s, the Fabulous ’50s, the Sexy ’60s and the Rockin’ ’80s.

On Sunday, December 31, from 7 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. enjoy live music, dancing and, of course, mouthwatering food from Executive Chef Steve Stawinski. Take part in hors d’oeuvres, entrées and desserts created especially to represent the popular cuisine of the corresponding decade!

Enjoy this celebration by purchasing tickets online at www.pontewinery.com or by visiting the winery at 35053 Rancho California Road in Temecula. Cost is $175 per person or $157.50 for wine club members.

The Inn at Churon Winery

A gourmet dinner including hors d’oeuvres; a selection of prime rib, marsala grilled chicken or scrumptious shrimp scampi; side dish compliments; delectable Churon Chardonnay Salad; and an assortment of delicious desserts will be prepared by professional on-site chef Enrique Alvarado. Dancing and live music provided by J.D. Priest and Band will highlight the evening and, of course, a traditional champagne toast will bring 2006 to a close.

The winery is at 33233 Rancho California Road. To learn more call (951) 694-9070.

Start a new holiday tradition at Keyways

Do away with the old and bring in the new in a very special and intimate way at "Romance in the Vines," Keyways Vineyard & Winery’s first annual New Year’s party.

The recently remodeled winery is the perfect setting for a romantic evening of music, food, wine and dancing.

"We hope anyone looking for a new and elegant way to celebrate the new year’s arrival will consider Keyways," said Terri Pebley, winery owner. "Start a new tradition with us at our elegantly rustic winery and tasting room."

The evening, which starts at 7:30 p.m., will feature a wine reception followed by a multi-course gourmet dinner by Master Chef Steve Hamlin.

Music will be provided by Masterpiece, a smooth, easy-listening jazz group.

Reserve early because space is limited. Price: $150 per person. To learn more call Keyways at (951) 302-7888.

Ponderosa Steakhouse in Sun City

At the Ponderosa Steakhouse & Lounge in Sun City there will be a gala New Year’s Eve party with dancing to the live music of classic rock-and-roll and western band Showdown. Tickets ($20) will include party favors and an optional New Year’s Eve menu from 5 to 10 p.m. The Ponderosa is at 27126 Shadel Road, adjacent to the 215 and McCall exit. To learn more call (951) 679-7008.

Pechanga Resort and Casino

As the year comes to a close, Pechanga Resort & Casino is busy preparing for the greatest New Year’s Eve festivities the Temecula Advertisement

[ Berry-Bell and Hall Mortuary ] Valley has ever seen. From casual to elegant, guests will find a variety of ways to celebrate in style. Whether you would like to wear comfortable jeans or get dressed to the nines, Pechanga has a party ready. See a concert, dance the night away in one of the clubs or stroll through the gaming action in the casino.

In the Pechanga Showroom, music lovers can get down to the smooth rock and blues of Bonnie Raitt with special guest, Jon Cleary and the Absolute Monster Gentlemen. Raitt, a nine-time Grammy winner, is an impressive guitarist, talented singer and accomplished songwriter. Gracing the Pechanga Showroom stage for three performances, Raitt will entertain guests on December 29, 30 and 31 at 8 p.m. with tickets starting at $50. The New Year’s show begins at 10 p.m. with tickets starting at $85.

The talented DJs at Silk, The Club will keep the party going with hip-hop, house and trance. This celebration begins at 9 p.m. and general admission is $75 per person. For reserved seating, please call Silk at (951) 770-2474.

For a relaxed party atmosphere with a high-energy vibe, the Eagle’s Nest is the place for guests to dance the night away with friends on New Year’s Eve. The DJs will be spinning old school, Top 40 and classic dance hits. Join the fun at the Eagle’s Nest for $50 per person. Guests of both clubs will get to ring in 2007 with complimentary party favors.

For tickets to these New Year’s Eve events, visit the Pechanga box office or call (951) 770-2507. Tickets are also available at www.pechanga.com.

Pechanga Resort & Casino is located at 45000 Pechanga Parkway, just off the I-15 freeway, in the beautiful Temecula Valley. For more information, call (877) 711-2WIN or log on to www.pechanga.com.

Celebrate a sober New Year’s Eve

Mission San Luis Rey in Oceanside invites all to join their New Year’s Retreat entitled "The 11th Step: Retreat on Prayer and Meditation." Retreat Center Director Mark Schroeder, OFM is the facilitator and people of various 12-Step programs will gather to hear speakers from the fellowship discuss styles of prayer and meditation that have helped their recovery. Silent retreat time will be available Sunday (New Year’s Eve) from 1 p.m. until dinner. New Year’s Eve night a 12-Step open meeting will be held, culminating with a midnight meditation on the Prayer of St. Francis.

The retreat begins on Saturday with dinner at 6 p.m. and ends with lunch on Monday. Check-in is from 4 to 6 p.m. Only shared rooms available at $150 per person and commuter at $75. For more information or to make a reservation visit www.sanluisrey.org or call (760) 757-3659.