What line/party to attend?

[auntrebbis]

The small bookstore in my hometown is taking preorders and having a 
party on the 20th to wait for the release at midnight.  They said there 
will be people in costume, etc. and it sounds like fun, but I'd have to 
attend by myself.  On the other hand, if I order from Borders (about 
half hour's drive) my husband will go with me and just hang out in 
Borders.  I'm assuming they will be open because they're open until 
midnight on Friday anyway.  

Is it worth going to a party or will I just end up grabbing my book and 
running home.  This is my first year - I just started reading the 
series about a year ago.  I'm sort of leaning towards the local 
bookstore/party just to have the experience.

For those of you who pick up your books at midnight, what are your 
thoughts on parties, waiting, etc?

Deb