GOINGS ON : Dances Will Ring in Santa Barbara’s New Year : Three very different celebrations, ranging from the sedate to one that swings, will herald the arrival of 1994.

If you’re feeling somewhat nostalgic for those old Lawrence Welk New Year’s Eves, the Santa Barbara Parks and Recreation Department may have just the thing, or things, for you.

As in years past, Santa Barbara will have a traditional ballroom dance gala--with waltz, fox trot, cha-cha and the like. The 1993-94 version will feature the orchestral offerings of the local Alberto Magdeleno Orchestra.

The dance is expected to draw about 200 folks, who will be celebrating from 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church, 305 E. Anapamu St. (near Garden Street). Tickets are $15 in advance, $18 at the door. Call 965-3813.

If you’re looking for something more up-tempo from start to finish, the swing dance team of Jonathan & Sylvia will be hosting a party of their own at the Carrillo Recreation Center, 100 E. Carrillo St.

This shindig, powered by the music of Rob Rio and the Revolvers, could draw up to 500 people--probably a younger crowd than at the ballroom party. Admission is $20 in advance, $25 at the door. Call 569-1952.

Both the ballroom and swing parties will be alcohol-free.

*

One more New Year’s option: The Junior League of Santa Barbara, a nonprofit women’s organization that helps finance and institute community projects, has organized a “Celebration Ball” to be held at the BMW and Cutter Motor showroom, 402 S. Hope Ave.

The black-tie-optional party will begin at 9 p.m. with hors d’oeuvres, desserts and gourmet coffee. Around midnight, the first meal of the new year--a breakfast--will be served. The evening’s entertainment will include rock ‘n’ roll and rhythm and blues dance tunes by the nine-piece band Vertigo, and a light show. There will also be a silent auction with jewelry, vacation packages and artwork up for grabs. Things will wrap up around 2 a.m.

Tickets are $60 and $125. Proceeds will benefit the Junior League’s Sexual Assault Response Team Cottage Project. Call 963-2704 for tickets or information.