Some San Antonians like to ring in the New Year lavishly, emptying out the pocketbook on a decadent dinner before paying a huge cover at an upscale bar. The more sensible among us like to have a little scratch left over for rent. Kissing 2018 goodbye shouldn’t require a small loan. That’s why we are counting down the clock at these affordable parties.

Bar Louie
Get out the glue gun and rhinestones — this La Cantera hangout is throwing a masquerade ball to welcome 2019 with a little mystery. The cover includes a Champagne toast and party favors with food and specialty cocktails like the Velvet 19 available for purchase. The best part is that it only costs $20 to get in the door, so partiers will have more dough to spend at the craft store.

El Luchador
To celebrate the Year of the Pig, this Southtown favorite has invited Durden Food Group to throw an old-fashioned pig roast. For $25 (or $40 for two), merrymakers will receive a succulent feast and a bubbly toast while enjoying to a set from DJ Angel. But nab those tickets now; the party can accommodate only 100 people and the price is likely to go up closer to the date.

The Esquire Tavern
Some San Antonio bars mark the new year by gouging guests. This downtown mainstay is celebrating by giving them a discount. On December 31, both The Esquire and Downstairs will take $20 all bottles of sparkling wine to ensure no one starts 2019 in the poor house. A complimentary glass of bubbles at midnight adds to the fun. Reservations are recommended.

Jokesters 22
Have a good chuckle at the expense of spendthrifts at this Southtown comedy club’s Winter Wonderland bash.The $15 ticket includes access to live music, a dinner buffet, a shot block, party favors, and, of course, gut-busting stand-up comedy. Early arrival is recommended for the best seats.

Merkaba
At $35, the early bird tickets to Merkaba’s masquerade party are the most of expensive on our list, but the River Walk hot spot gives a lot of bang for the buck. In addition to guaranteed entry, the cost includes a visit to the Champagne station and one premium drink to start the festivities off right.

Still Golden Social House
With a winter cocktail menu that has fancy ingredients like spiced butter syrup, chai honey, and hopped grapefruit bitters, this Broadway Street baby doesn’t exactly seem like a dive bar, but it definitely comes through with dive bar prices. Most drinks are only $8, and revelers can score a bottle of bubbles or sparkling rosé for only $32.

St. Anthony Hotel
A stylish locale, a full top shelf bar, and a DJ set to keep the party rocking? The St. Anthony’s New Year’s Eve party doesn’t exactly seem like it would be a bargain, but the rooftop St. A Sky Terrace manages to deliver all of the above for a low $10 price. Did we mention it has a stunning view of the annual fireworks display?