If you’re not in the mood to play it safe at home on New Year’s Eve, there’s plenty to see and do, as well as crowds to join, while welcoming 2009 and saying adios to ’08.

Two big shows headline the night’s festivities on Wednesday.

In town, Jawbone plays at Shooters Sports Bar, starting about 9:30 p.m. Jawbone’s been popular here for years, playing mostly party and dance tunes from the ’70s and ’80s. They play everything from Motown to dance and pop, and once opened for Blues Traveler at Jump, Jive and JamFest.

Paul Whitt—on keyboards and vocals—said it will be a great chance for the general public to come on out and see the band live because the band typically plays many private events and parties.

“Shooters is the perfect venue for us since they have a large dance floor, plenty of seating, great dance and stage lighting, and a thumping sound system,” Whitt said.

He said doors will open at 5 p.m. and suggests people arrive early. The cover charge is $15 for individuals and $25 for couples, he said. After a champagne toast at midnight, the music will play on.

Whitt is joined on stage by Lisa Childress on vocals, Meko Radomski on drums, Curt Richardson on bass and vocals, and Kevin Zaliski on guitars and vocals.

Down in Linden at Music City Texas Theater, Betty Lewis and the Executives will give a rhythmic and bluesy welcome to ’09 as they did last year at MCT.

“It was a sellout and it was a good night through the whole night,” said Lewis. She hopes to get some of the same love and kindness they received last year from the Linden crowd.

Lewis said the band will do some of her music and music from lead guitarist Billy O’Con, as well as R&B, blues and a little country.

“We’re going to mix it up and do a variety of music like we normally do so we don’t miss anybody,” said Lewis.

She’s played with the likes of B.B. King, Bobby Bland, Percy Sledge, The Bellamy Brothers, The Staples Singers and Bo Diddley.

She’s joined on stage by O’Con, John Mallard on bass, Mikey Owens on drums and Eddie Stewart on keyboards.

“I’m looking forward to a wonderful New Year’s Eve,” said Lewis.

She’ll kick things off at 9 p.m. No alcohol is sold at MCT but small ice chests are allowed. Tickets are $25. Midnight fireworks will add to the fun.

In addition to those two top shows, there’s plenty of live music to be savored through the evening and once the clock strikes midnight.

Fat Jack’s Oyster and Sports Bar has 2 Far Gone rocking out and drink specials for the $5 cover.

The Road Map has Windy (Windham) and Rich (Walker) playing the New Year’s Eve party. No cover there and drink specials are on tap.

TaaXi plays The Frosty Mug. It’s the band and burgers for $5.

Skyward Jazz Lounge has J Phil and guest musicians from Little Rock playing and singing jazz with The Sky Band.

The Big Easy has a comedy show with three comedians. D. Ellis emcees.

Quincey’s Irish Pub welcomes Ms. Mac and the Groovetones for the evening. The $5 cover includes finger food, party favors and midnight champagne. There’s also a darts tournament, so if you’d like to participate make sure your aim is true for the night.

Club Next has Psylo on the stage. Cover is $5.

At Park Place Restaurant, Elvis impersonator Butch Dicus may call you a little darlin’ as you dance the night away. He’ll entertain from 8 p.m. to midnight at the Arkansas-side establishment. Tickets for seats ($60 per person) include dinner. Reserved seating is in the bar while the restaurant is open to the public.

And at Timothy’s Gourmet Grill, a special New Year’s Eve menu will tempt the palate.

No matter what you do, make it a safe and smart night. Fun memories should last.