New Year's Eve 2015: Manchester Parties

2015 is soon to be a hazy memory on this quixotic road we call life, but how are you going to see it out? The options are myriad but treacherous: ending one year and begining another ten-deep in a dreary boozer or curled up with Jools Holland is no one's idea of fun. That's why we'll be hand-picking the best New Year's Eve parties happening near you and including them here as the details come in.

The best New Year's Eve parties in Manchester:

Mr. Scruff continues to keep it unreal on New Year's Eve, this time bringing in a few cronies – Kelvin Brown and Qool DJ Marv – to help get 2016 off to a flyer at the Old Granada Studios (£22). Brown and Marv are both Manchester faves in their own right, both fearless selectors intent on adding to the melting pot of soul, funk, jazz, disco and miscellaneous. Of course, the original one-man smile catalyst MC Quasi will be on hand to keep the crowd in disorder. 

Listen to Mr. Scruff's alternative Christmas playlist

If you’re in for the longer haul, you might be best checking out Hidden’s largely Germanic festive affair (£22.50). tINI returns for her second slot in less than six months, heading up a bill alongside seasoned pro Jan Krueger and DeWalta, Mike Shannon’s long-time partner in crime. Doors close at 6am, later than most.

Read our feature on Hidden's shake-up of the Manchester clubbing scene

Groove your way into 2016 at Band on the Wall’s funk and soul night, featuring Myles Sanko – a guy hot off the heels of his recent European tour with Gregory ‘1960 What?’ Porter. Expect a night of floor fillers and all round good times for £25.

There’s also more soul on offer at Sound Control as Howling Rhythm join forces with Remake Remodel for a head-on collision of 60s sounds and alternative rock (£15).

Bohemian Grove host their NYE party at the Whiskey Jar this year, bringing in Vtnm, Means&3rd and Annabel Fraser to keep things going 'til 6am. As their description states, ‘Only full on party people need apply for this one.’ Value at £10.

Albert Hall plays host to a Black Butter Records showcase with David Rodigan, Oneman and Melé all contributing to the noise. Seems pretty popular as we’re now on the second release for tickets – a whopping £35. One for the diehard Rodiganites, then. 

Even better value comes from the masterminds behind Absolute Shite, who guarantee ‘the worst NYE of your life’ at The Ruby Lounge for just £8. Expect the soured cream of our generation’s cheese with sounds from Mark Morrison, Whigfield and, of course, Chumbawumba. If that’s not shite enough for you, Fatman Scoop is on at Tiger Tiger.

New Year's Day parties in Manchester:

Perennial Freero resident Jane Fitz graces proceedings at Soup Kitchen on New Year's Day – a relative bargain at £12.50. 

Also on NYD, Selective Hearing run a 10-hour slog at an undisclosed location (£22). Nick Craddock, Reflec and an as yet unannounced special guest lead the line, in addition to Levon Vincent. If the ethical dilemma turns you off a little bit, consider the spread of high quality techno laid on by all. Just don’t head out into town with the biggest shank available stashed down your pants.

New Year's Day also sees Albert Hall link up with next-door neighbour Albert's Schloss to bring in a hefty bill across the two venues. DJs include Luke Unabomber, Bicep, Julio Bashmore, Will Tramp! and many more. The £19.50 tickets have sold out, unfortunately – but £60 gets you queue jump, access to the VIP balcony and private bar, and three drinks vouchers.