NYE Parties: Red Lion, Vail, Colo.

Phil (Long) and Friends at Red Lion (Vail, Colo.)

For four decades, the Red Lion has served as an institution on Bridge Street, packed from the minute the ski lifts close until well after midnight. And it’s not jut a local’s bar or a tourist destination; the Red Lion is a pleasant mix of both packed into the short-ceilinged porch grooving, often to sing along with the worthy live music of local legend Phil Long, who happens to be one of the Red Lion’s owners. Come New Year’s Eve, Phil and his friends will be on the tiny corner stage, making the party one of the toughest spots to get into. Just be thankful it’s not the better known Phil and Friends taking the stage. No way you’d be getting a ticket then. $60, includes a Champagne toast, 970-476-7676.