First
Night Boston
Dateline: 12/27/98
It's not too late to make plans to be part of North America's largest New Year's Eve celebration. Since its creation 20 years ago, First Night Boston has spawned many imitators in cities and communities nationwide, but none has reached the amazing proportions of this traditional celebration--expected to draw 1.5 million people to Boston this December 31.
What is First Night? It's a city-wide arts and cultural celebration featuring more than 1,000 artists performing at more than 50 indoor and outdoor venues. Purchase a "First Night" button for $12, and you'll have all you need to get in on the evening's multitude of events.
The official First Night Boston Web site has all of the information you'll need to plan your New Year's outing. Start with the online Interactive Planner, which allows you to search for events, create your own custom itinerary for the evening, and then print it out or even email it to a friend! Click over to the Artists and Events area if you'd like more in-depth information on any of the evening's myriad of performers. If this is your first First Night Boston, you might also want to check out the round-up of First Night traditions that have become annual favorites, including the Mardi Gras-style Grand Procession, The Perrier Irrepressible Laser Light Show, and the First Night Fireworks.
The Web site also provides a Helpful Tips page with advice on how to make the most of your night and Practical Information you'll need on subway transportation, which is free after 8 p.m.; restrooms; parking; and more. Plus, you'll find an interactive, downloadable map so that you can pinpoint the locations of First Night events.
If you go... Check the list of greater Boston locations where you can purchase your First Night Button. If you'll be staying overnight, you might also want to consult the list of hotels offering First Night discounted rates. Sidewalk Boston has your guide to First Night Noshing and advice on making dining reservations in advance. You might also want to refer to Sidewalk Boston's insider advice on the best bets for First Night. You can also call the Greater Boston Convention and Visitors Bureau at 1-888-SEE-BOSTON for more information on accommodations and things to do in the Boston area.
Other New England First Night Celebrations
Happy New Year!
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