Boston’s annual New Year’s Eve celebration is back to ring in 2024!
Since 1976, the city of Boston has hosted the beloved First Night celebration, and it returns this Sunday, December 31. The all day event kicks off at City Hall Plaza at noon and ends with a midnight fireworks show over the Boston Harbor. First Night Boston begins at Boston City Hall Plaza at 11am and more than 200,000 people are expected to visit the free event throughout the day and into the night. And for more ideas on what to do on New Years Eve read our full NYE in Boston guide or check out our picks for NYE parties.
First Night Boston fireworks: Where and when
There are two fireworks events at First Night. First, Mayor Michelle Wu will make remarks at 5:45pm before the First Night Parade brings hundreds of performers to Boston Common for the 7pm family friendly fireworks display.
The big show begins with headliner and local talent Sammy Adams, who takes the stage at 11:30pm and a second fireworks display will set Boston Harbor alight with sparkle at midnight sharp.
Where will the ice sculptures be at First Night?
Always a major attraction, find the famous ice sculptures at Boston Common, City Hall and scattered around downtown. The sculptures will vary in size and style, and will be in place the afternoon of December 31 (timing will vary depending on the weather) and illuminated at night.
Daytime activities on First Night
Taking the kids into town for the celebrations can be a fun, family-friendly way to ring in the New Year. The carousel on the Greenway offers free rides from 12 to 3pm. Starting at 2pm, Improv Asylum makes its First Night debut with the first of three afternoon shows at the comedy groups Hanover Street location. You’ll get to participate in the interactive improv shows designed for the whole family which last until around 4:40pm. Want something more peaceful? Head to the Back bay for an organ concert in the First Church of Christ Scientist, beginning at 2pm.
Public transportation on First Night
The good news? It’s free! Service will be free on all modes of public transit after 8pm, and the MBTA will have additional staff and ambassadors will be available to assist riders who aren’t familiar with the subway and buses. The T will run on a Sunday schedule, with increased service after 3pm on the 31st. Buses and The RIDE will run on a Sunday schedule. You can find more information on schedules and maps on the MBTA’s website.
What’s the parking situation at First Night?
There is no dedicated parking for First Night events, but you’re best off parking in a garage near City Hall. Street parking may be available on some streets, but it will be limited. Close to City Hall are the following garages, which are a safer bet than street parking: Center Plaza Garage, City Place Garage, Pi Alley Parking Garage, Dock Square Parking Garage, and Garage at Post Office Square. You can also try Boston Common parking at the Boston Common Garage, but get there early.
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Schedule of entertainment on First Night
Here are just some of the fun things to do and see during the day and into the wee hours on Boston’s First Night. You’ll find family friendly activities, comedy shows, fireworks and more – all for free!
12pm – Boston Saxophone Quartet at City Hall, Greenway Carousel on the Rose Kennedy Greenway
12:10pm – Ava & Cam at the City Hall Plaza Main Stage
1pm – Paco's Band at the City Hall Plaza Main Stage, Arts and Crafts Presented by Greater Boston Chinese Cultural Association on the Second Floor of City Hall
3pm – Tristan and Delaney at the City Hall Plaza Main Stage
4pm – Improv Show at Improv Asylum
5pm – LIZJE at the City Hall Plaza Main Stage
6pm – First Night Parade from City Hall Plaza to Boston Common
6:30pm – Maddi Ryan at the City Hall Plaza Main Stage
7pm – City of Boston's Family Fireworks, presented by The Mugar Foundation & the City of Boston
7:20pm – Sons of Levin, LaQuandra Seymore, followed by Guess Method, Nancia and Ayla Brown and Rob Bellamy at the City Hall Plaza Main Stage
11:30pm – First Night City Hall Countdown and Sammy Adams at the City Hall Plaza Main Stage
Midnight – Boston Harbor Fireworks, presented by Meet Boston at Boston Harbor (Long Wharf)