FESTIVITIES

Boston’s First Night Festival of the Arts, annually showcases the work of 1,000 artists in 200 performances and exhibits at 35 indoor and outdoor venues located throughout the downtown area on New Year’s Eve. This signature Boston event is the oldest and largest of its kind in North America, typically attracting about one million people from throughout the region. The day-long celebration runs from 1 pm to midnight each year on December 31. In addition to the broad range of lively music, dance, theater, visual art, and film programs offered, First Night’s traditional activities include a Family Festival at the Hynes Convention Center, a Grand Procession down Boylston Street, colossal ice sculptures that dot the city’s landscape, and a spectacular fireworks display at midnight.

“First Night is a very special event that brings families and friends together to celebrate. It’s a signature event that is one of the things that makes Boston a wonderful place to live and visit.” – Pat Moscaritolo, President of the Greater Boston Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Events take place at various indoor and outdoor venues across Downtown Boston.