Five, four, three, two, fun.

HEAR
Mucca Pazza
What: Join the countdown with the misfit marching band that plays a dizzying mix of mambo, metal, gypsy, and classical.
Why: Gotta love the mismatched uniforms and big plastic pom-poms.
When: Fri., 9:30 p.m.
Where: Logan Square Auditorium, 2539 N. Kedzie Blvd., at Logan Blvd. Info at 773-276-3600. Tickets ($25) online at ticketweb.com.

SIP
Trinkschokolade
What: Like a big bear hug, the European-style hot cocoa (made from Julius Meinl chocolate and steamed milk) warms you from the inside out.
Why: It’s a liquid Snuggie.
When: After ice-skating at Millennium Park.
Where: The Gage, 24 S. Michigan Ave., b/t Monroe & Madison Sts. (312-372-4243); Henri, 18 S. Michigan Ave., b/t Monroe & Madison Sts. (312-578-0763).

WEAR
Apron Cooking Guides
What: Get help in the kitchen with a wearable cheat sheet ($30) of numeric conversions, freezing instructions, veggie cooking times, and more.
Why: Never let them see you sweat.
When: Company’s coming.
Where: Enjoy, 4723 N. Lincoln Ave., at Giddings St. (773-334-8626); online at urbangeneralstore.com.

RESOLVE
Cycling Classes at Go Cycle
What: Make 2011 the year you shun elastic-waist pants with the help of single sessions ($18) or packages ($75-$200) at the Old Town exercise studio.
Why: Your first class is free, so you can test the waters.
When: Schedule online at gocyclestudio.com.
Where: 501 W. North Ave., at Cleveland Ave. To register, call 312-878-4999.

Photo: Eric Harvey Brown / Courtesy of Mucca Pazza