It’s the end of an era. Beginning Thursday at midnight — after 10 long years — the public could do away with pronouncing the heavy, mouthful “two thousand and…”

The year 2010 — that’s “twenty-ten” — is on it’s way. There are a few ways to celebrate the dawn of a decade and ring in the new year right here in Austin.

Rock in the New Year with Elvis, Denny and The DC Drifters and Kalle Ackerman

Elvis tribute artist Brad Boice lets the city party like it’s 1956 at the Paramount Theatre, at 7:30 p.m. The jam-packed concert will include songs, costumes and jives from every era of Elvis Presley. Boice is joined by the Minnesota Rock ‘N’ Roll Hall of Fame band Denny and The DC Drifters. The four top placers of the Austin’s Got Talent competition also perform. Pianist Kalle Ackerman, violinist Victoria Torkelson and singers Teiler Miller and Amanda Corey are on the bill. The show is slated to last 90 minutes — so concert-goers can make it home in time to watch the ball drop. Or, as Paramount Theatre operations manager Scott Anderson said, “You can have fun, listen to Elvis and then party down somewhere to ring in the new year.” Tickets are $15.

New Year’s Eve Party with TOUCHED

Hard and heavy rock band TOUCHED performs their fifth annual New Year’s Eve concert at Torge’s Live, 1701 4th Street Northwest. The Twin Cities-based band takes the stage at 9 p.m. and complimentary champagne will be poured at midnight. There will also be specials and party favors. Cover is $5.

Club parties

Dinner and Music at the Eagles Club

New Years Eve steak or shrimp dinner at the Eagles Club is from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The band Rush Hour performs.

American Legion Dinner

American Legion New Years Eve Lobster Dinner. RSVP only.

New Years Eve Dinner at Moose Lodge

Prime rib, lobster and walleye help bring in the new year, from 5 to 6:45 p.m. RSVP only.