On New Year's Eve in St. Louis, locals and visitors revel in the possibilities of the months to come. From ball drops to fireworks to First Night activities, every locale rings in the new year a little differently. As part of NewYearsQuest -- a MapQuest guide to the best New Year's Eve sights and sounds in the U.S. and in major cities around the world -- here are three recommended events for New Year's Eve 2011 in St. Louis.

St. Louis New Year's Eve Events Map

First Night St. Louis

First Night St. Louis is a visual and performing arts festival that holds the booze but is heavy on culture and entertainment. The theme this year is Xanadu and the diverse range of music and performances are representative of every corner of St. Louis' demographic tapestry, including the Flippen' Out trampoline troupe (as seen on America's Got Talent), magician Brent Lowenstein, Ed Reggi's improv comedy and myriad music groups, featuring everything from Native American flute to bluegrass to disc jockey Chris Johnson. Events will be held in (and outside of) more than a dozen venues in the downtown Grand Center -- the 10th time the all-ages evening will be held there. First Night St. Louis is also celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. For more information, contact the Grand Center at 314-289-1500 or visit the center online.

Grand Center, 3526 Washington Ave., St. Louis, MO 63103

St. Louis New Year's Eve Homecoming Comedy Jam

Looking for a last laugh ... in 2011? Head to the Peabody Opera House, as Cedric the Entertainer leads a group of comedians in the St. Louis New Year's Eve Homecoming Comedy Jam, a tribute to the passing of 2011. Among the stars joining the hometown headliner on stage are J.J. and Malik S. The topical, edgy humor of Cedric and company isn't likely as family-friendly as First Night's festivities, so parental discretion is advised. Tickets range from $69 to $79 and can be purchased from the Ford Box Office at Scottrade Center, Ticketmaster.com or by calling 800-745-3000. Doors open at 8 p.m.

Peabody Opera House, 1400 Market St., St. Louis, MO 63103

St. Louis Symphony New Year's Eve

To ring in 2012 with class, attend the St. Louis Symphony New Year's Eve show, referred to as "one of the most-enjoyed" concerts of the entire year. This New Year's Eve show will be the sixth rendition and is led by conductor David Robertson, whose musical mastery has earned him guest-conducting engagements with the BBC Symphony Orchestra, the Berlin Philharmonic and the New York Philharmonic. This event can expand your artistic horizons and set the stage for a year of personal growth. The show kicks off at 7:30 p.m. and tickets can be purchased via the symphony's website or by calling 314-534-1700. Ticket prices range from $80 to $120.

Powell Hall, 718 N. Grand Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63103

New Year's Eve In St. Louis: Video

Flashy fireworks are just one element of the First Night celebration in St. Louis.

Did we miss a St. Louis New Year's Eve event? Tell us about it in the comments section below.

Related MapQuest New Year's Articles

Everything Changes On New Year's Day
by Ken Jennings
Our resident expert -- and renowned Jeopardy! champ -- scours the planet to find some of its oddest New Year's traditions.