Celebrate the New Year in Boston

First Night’s Citywide Celebration is a Signature Event

Oct 27, 2008

Boston, Massachusetts is home to First Night Boston, a 33 year old event, where a million people will celebrate the New Year.

December 31st in Boston, Massachusetts finds the city bustling with activities for an eleven hour countdown few will miss. Boston’s New Year celebration is one of America’s most unique First Night events, boasting over a million celebrants and forty venues to choose from.

A History of First Night Boston

It all started in 1976 when local artists sought an alternative way to celebrate New Year’s Eve. The first crowds were about 25,000 curious folks but now over a million people join in on the fun.

First Night Boston, Inc. is a private 501 (C)3 non-profit organization and the annual event is sponsored by sales of the First Night button and private and public contributions as well as sponsorships.

Where to get the First Night Button

The 2009 First Night Boston button is designed by Rachel Maguire, local illustrator with a history of animation work for PBS. Outdoor events are free but indoor performances and exhibits require a button for admittance.

Children under the age of 4 are admitted free of charge. A discounted button can be purchased through the official First Night Boston website from November 28th through December 26th. The buttons can be purchased at Boston area Au Bon Pain, Store 24, Shaw’s and other locations. Sales will start November 28th.

Fireworks and Parade

There are two firework shows for the First Night Boston – the first is after the parade, held on the Boston Common around 7pm. This is called the Family Fireworks and is a short fireworks show especially done for those who will not be staying awake to midnight. The second show is the Midnight Grande Finale and is held over the Boston Harbor and starts at midnight. The best vantage points would be tall buildings overlooking the Boston Harbor.

The Grand Procession starts at 5:30pm from the Hynes Convention Center on Boylston Street. It flows down Boylston Street, goes left onto Charles Street near the Boston Common and will end Charles and Beacon Streets.

Outdoor Arts and Exhibits

The ice sculptures are one of the most popular features of the outdoor venues. Ice sculptures craft their designs in front of audiences using chainsaws, chisels and assorted tools. Some of the sculpted ice displays are setup in advance and can be admired a couple of days before New Year’s Eve. Sadly the sculptures must be destroyed after the celebrations to prevent injury to those who would attempt to climb on the unguarded art pieces.

Because the outdoor venues are free to the public they can draw long crowds. Merrymakers should anticipate some exhibits being overcrowded and should take close watch of small children. Many of the indoor events are very kid-friendly including face painting, musical events and puppet programs in past events.

First Night Boston Details

The copyright of the article Celebrate the New Year in Boston in Massachusetts Travel is owned by Amy Kreydin. Permission to republish Celebrate the New Year in Boston in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.