First Nights: A better way to usher in the New Year

Before Boston came up with its First Night celebrations, people dressed up in fancy clothes and went to parties on New Year’s Eve. Or they celebrated with friends. Either way, a lot of toasting and drinking were involved.

Their kids, regardless of age, had nothing to do but wait for Mom and Dad to get home.

In 1976, First Night in Boston changed all that. The event brings together communities and people of all ages. It rings in the New Year with spectacular events to welcome the first night and first day of 2016.

This celebration is free and open to all. Entertainment and specialty attractions will be focused on Copley Square, the Boston Common and Boston Harbor. The events are perfect for all ages and begin at 1 p.m. on December 31.

Many of the beloved traditions of First Nights past are retained, including the Celebrate Boston Parade, ice sculptures and light displays, and the Boston Harbor Midnight Fireworks. In addition, arts and musical performances take place in numerous inside and outside venues around the heart of the event. About 1,000 performers are involved.
While Boston started it all, the First Night idea was quick to catch on. Cities small and large hold their own events. Every state has cities holding celebrations, Including:

First Night Akron, Ohio its holding its 20th event this year and is known for it many attractions and thousands of visitors.

Washington, DC, area: First Night Alexandria, Virginia, celebrates the New Year with the performing arts.

Front Royal, VA: We’ll celebrate too. An Evening of music and celebration. See the program here: http://discoverfrontroyal.com/first-night-front-royal