Shortcuts December 12 2001

New Orleans, La.
The crowds will be in New Orleans for the Sugar Bowl Jan. 1, but in celebrating, they might pass out before this booze-cruise ship ever leaves the dock. The Midnight Fireworks Cruise aboard the paddlewheeler Creole Queen or the 19th-century replica Riverboat Cajun Queen is a unique way to ring in the New Year. The boats board at 10 p.m. and sail 11 p.m.-1 a.m. View the lights of the Big Easy while cruising along the Mississippi River. Dec. 31 $75 per adult; $40 per child ages 6-12. 504-525-0814.

Daytona Beach, Fla.
Drivers travel faster than 100 mph, but it’s not Nascar — these racers’ asses will be only two inches off the ground for the World Karting Association’s 28th annual competition Dec. 26-30. Thousands of racers from across the U.S. and Canada will compete in the multi-day event, which has divisions for all experience levels and ages. Held at Daytona International Speedway, this is the first stop of the national road racing series for 2002. Times and ticket prices vary. 1801 International Speedway Blvd. 386-253-RACE or www.worldkarting.com.??