Memphis for New Years (restaurants, sites, festivities)

My boyfriend and I were headed to the Ole Miss game in a few weeks and going to stay in Memphis, but instead we made it to T-town for THE GAME OF THE CENTURY lol

But he has ALWAYS wanted to go to Memphis, so we are headed there for New Years! Getting in that Saturday and staying through Monday morning.
Staying at the Holiday Inn Select on Union Ave.
I am more than positive most of the day Sunday (New Years day) will be spent in the hotel room watching football, since I've repeatedly been reminded that it is THE BIGGEST FOOTBALL DAY OF THE YEAR lol...We will definitely go tour Sun Records and see the Peabody/ducks probably on Monday before heading home...

So here are the questions:
1. Does anyone know what type of festivities take place on Beale Street/the river (fireworks?) for New Years Eve?

2. It's redundant & pointless to ask about the best BBQ places because while 10 people disdain one place, 20 more will say it's the best thing they have ever eaten... :beatdeadhorse: but I'm going to anyway! As far as I can tell, the MUST GO TO places are Rendevous, The BBQ Shop, Cocky's? How about places other than BBQ joints that are worth visiting?...Maybe a good place in downtown, not far from our hotel that we could pick something up to-go to eat while watching the bowl games...

3. The best bars? Coolest atmosphere? Must-see eclectic little places? We love eclectic!
4. Best kept secrets? Other than Sun Records, Beale street bars, and I really have no desire to see Graceland... are there any other things we should see that aren't the "standard" Memphis attractions?

Sorry for the giant post, but I appreciate any advice/comments/suggestions you guys have!