What's Happening for New Year's Eve?

t's hard to believe, but 2012 is almost here. And people throughout the Baltimore area are celebrating. Here are some of the biggest parties in town. What are you doing this weekend? Tell us in the comments.

Thousands will show up at Baltimore's Inner Harbor, home to the annual fireworks display. The party starts at 9 p.m., with music from the funk/soul 8 ohms band. For an unforgettable view of the festivities, take a cruise on the Inner Harbor Spirit or the Spirit of Baltimore.

On 34th Street in Hampden, home to the famed Christmas lights, residents will host a Times Square-style ball drop.

Do you want to celebrate with your little ones but without staying up so late? The Maryland Science Center hosts , an early countdown with confetti, party hats and the Grammy-nominated children's band Milkshake.

Port Discovery is doing something similar at noon on New Year's Eve. Come in costume and celebrate the new year with juice and cookies.

Rams Head Live has Get the Led Out, a Led Zeppelin tribute band. Doors open at 8 p.m. and the night includes drink specials and party favors.

In Towson, the Recher Theatre has to ring in the new year. The party starts at 7 p.m. and includes Pasadena and the Jon Bailey Band. will be serving up a special seafood dinner with whole Maine lobsters (market price). A DJ and a free midnight champagne toast will help get the celebration going.

is hosting Charm City Countdown, a charity ball to benefit Caring Communities.

In Timonium, Magooby's is hosting comedian Vic Henley with a buffet, dancing and a champagne toast.

Take in a fireworks display during the  event in Columbia. The party starts at 5 p.m., and includes a bonfire, music, and food. The evening caps off with a fireworks presentation. You can even feel philanthropic as you party, as proceeds from the night will benefit Howard County General Hospital.

Enjoy the festivities at the in Savage. The venue is not charging a cover for the night, and there will be a handful of drink specials on the menu. In addition, partygoers will be treated to a beer toast at midnight. You can even continue your party into the New Year with the venue’s New Year’s Day brunch.

Offering yet another bar experience is the at the Stained Glass Pub in Elkridge. The party gets started at 9 p.m. with a DJ livening up the dance floor. Party the night away while enjoying a champagne toast at midnight.

If you're looking to get out on New Year's Day, consider attending a on the Short Line Railroad in Catonsville. The hike starts at 10 a.m.