Chicago weather: Cold, windy forecast for New Year's Eve

CHICAGO (WLS) -- December 31, 2013 kicked off nearly a week of constant snow and frigid temperatures. From New Year's Eve to Jan. 7, 2013, it snowed nearly 20 inches in the Chicago region. That week also saw our first taste of "Chiberia," breaking temperature records.

Now, 2014 ends nearly the same way it began: with freezing cold.

Partygoers will be greeted with frigid temperatures on New Year's Eve, and some Chicagoans are weighing in on whether the weather will keep them from going out to ring in the New Year.

"I'm keeping it chill this year, in my PJs with wine and Chinese food," said Teddy Heidt.

It was toasty warm in the Vaugn Athletic Center in Aurora, where the Fox Valley Park District sponsored a family-friendly New Year's Eve party. Nearly 700 kids and their parents had activities to choose from, ranging from bounce houses to learning the latest dance steps. But the biggest draw was the countdown to the balloon drop at noon, an early way to ring in the New Year for the younger set.

"As parents, it's hard for us to stay up because our kids tire us out during the day," said Jeff Long, who attended the event with his family, "so this is a good opportunity to have their own celebration."

There was also hope from some parents that their kids would tire out from all the partying, though some were less optimistic.

"Who knows?" said John Pearson. "She stays up past midnight sometimes. We'll see."

For those planning to stay up late, the Grand Ballroom at Navy Pier is the place to be for its annual Resolution Gala. Crews were working on transforming the space into the place to be.

"It's going to be so much fun, people dressed to impress," says Nick Shields, Navy Pier spokesperson. "It's a fabulous time."

WATCH: ABC7 First Alert Forecast

Tonight may be frigid, but Chicago will have a sunny start to 2015 with clear skies Thursday, with a high of 28.

It may be clear now, but don't put your snow boots away - there's a possibility some snow will hit the Chicago area Saturday.