CHICAGO -- The streets of Chicago were quiet on Saturday, empty except for a few vodka bottles and paper streamers left over from Thursday's New Year's Eve celebration.

The residents, of course, were inside: Hiding from freezing single-digit temperatures, icy walkways -- and the month of January itself.

"This happens every year," said Jane Rabikowski, head of Chicago's Streets, Sanitation and Seasonal Hibernation department. "People tear it up on New Year's, and then don't make plans with their friends or family for the next 8-10 weeks."

Local businesses were preparing for the withdrawl on Friday. "I've fired half my staff," said Greg Morgan, manager of the Michigan Avenue-based Hennigan's pub. "We may have 5, 6 customers in the next month. Why would I need a waitstaff?"

Many Chicagoans say winter hibernation is just part of living in the city.

"My friends understand," says Sara Taylor, 28. "I'll e-mail them in March about going to a movie or something. But until then, no, it's too freaking cold to go out, and I ate enough candy over the holiday season to ward off hunger until the first thaw." Taylor then excused herself to go layer her clothing.