NBA All-Star Game 2012: The Best Parties of the Weekend

Sweet three-point strokes, revolutionary dunks and pinpoint passes...the jaw-dropping executions we expect from each year's NBA midseason break.

But in the shadows lurks a potent collection of festivities, each aiming to please fans and prepare the audience for another epic All-Star weekend.

This explosive time of year is more than just basketball; it's about slugging down several strong ones and dancing to some rhythmic merengue.

But we're not going to limit ourselves to one genre, so let's take a look at the best parties of this year's All-Star weekend.

Start marking that calender.

5. Welcome to Orlando, Thursday Feb. 23

Roxy Nightclub, 9:30 p.m.

General Admission: $40

VIP: $65

With your first night in Orlando, a magical night bumping to reggaeton may sound necessary, but we've got a better option.

Dwight Howard is hosting this memorable fiesta, clearly ready to get his newcomers into the proper mindset for a high-flying weekend.

Accompanied by the World Star Hip Hop Honeys, the star center should be determined to show off the flashy Florida lifestyle.

Don't forget your star-covered sunglasses and glow sticks.

4. Floyd Mayweather All-Star Birthday Bash, Friday Feb. 24

Vain Nightclub, 10 p.m.

General Admission: $100

VIP: $150

We can never get tired of Dwight Howard, and trust us, there's nobody you'd rather have hosting Floyd Mayweather Jr.'s birthday bash than a respectful 7'0" dunking machine.

This will be perhaps the only chance we get to chuck cake at the whiny boxer's arrogant smile.

Hopefully Manny Pacquiao makes a special appearance.

Celebrity-filled, you bet.

3. Day Break Party, Saturday Feb. 25

Draft Global Beer Lounge, 2 p.m.

After two nights of heavy partying, we can't possibly slow down now.

Hosted by the legendary Doug E. Fresh and featuring the lyrically brilliant Biz Markie, this seven-hour basher is sure to keep you bumping.

They'll allow their homegrown New York flow a chance to spark the laid-back audience, complemented by Atlanta-bred DJ Trauma spinning those records.

A can't-miss event.

2. Rookie of the Year, Saturday Feb. 25

Firestone Live, 9 p.m.

General Admission: $75

VIP: $125

After listening to Biz Markie rap about his friends' friends, you're clearly feeling energized, ready for the next venue.

Well, no need to fret, as J. Cole and budding NBA star John Wall will be setting up their Rookie of the Year party that will likely last far past 4 p.m.

From classical rap to new-age hip-hop, a perfectly smooth transition.

1. The Playmate All-Star Party, Sunday Feb. 26

Terrace 390, 9:30 p.m.

General Admission: $75

VIP: $125

It's been a rough weekend of partying—exhilarating yet exhausting.

A thorough Sunday needs to be planned to perfection.

After a leisurely wakeup, we enjoy the beautiful day, knowing that 7 p.m. is the expected start of the illustrious All-Star Game—the main event, if you will.

Following the game, however, rests a bevy of Playboy Playmates, all eager to please the crowd.

Finishing a historical weekend on top.