New Year's Eve is notoriously one of the most expensive nights of the year- an outfit and shoes beforehand, then drinks, transportation and entrance fee on the night- can easily cost upwards of $300. So when this college student was given a less expensive option she was certainly in.

Barmuvinjam's "The Bailout" at Pier Six was certainly the place to be this New Year's Eve as hundreds of partygoers gathered to bring in 2009. And at a mere $30-50 a ticket and $8 for drinks, there was no way to refuse this bash, which featured tunes from Jugglin J, D'Nice, DJ Aztec and D'General.

People started to sprinkle in around 9.30 p.m., with the majority of the crowd in by 11. Drinks flowed all night, and though the venue's selection of alcohol was limited, it was great to be in and out of the bar line within five minutes or so.

With drinks in hand, locals danced to the latest in hip-hop, reggae and soca and got ready to usher in the New Year, counting down along with a big projection screen.

As midnight struck, partygoers rejoiced with friends and acquaintances, loud screams and blow horns, but there was also an air of sadness in the room as some remembered those lost in 2008.

The Police Commissioner's son Andrew Jackson, who became the Island's 16th road fatality on Christmas Day, was honoured throughout the evening by Barmuvinjam members, who also wore red rose corsages in his memory.

"He was a part of our crew," explained Barmuvinjam Director Jason Sukdeo. "He helped out with getting events done and making events happen. He will definitely be missed."

Despite the somber moments, all in attendance were out to have a great time and the night ended without any of the usual drama.

Mr. Sukdeo agreed and said: "I felt it went really well, it ran smoothly. We didn't have any major issues and I think it was a great start to the New Year."

It wasn't until after 2 a.m. when people began to stumble out of the venue and into taxi stands around Hamilton.

Overall, 'The Bailout' bash was a great evening out, and the best part is that it's only a sign of what's to come in 2009.

Director Vejay Steede urges all to: "Look forward to more innovative events in the coming year from Barmuvinjam", and this writer couldn't agree more.