First Night Boston

First Night takes place in Boston on December 31. Activities and programming are completely free!

First Night Boston is a highly anticipated city-wide celebration that is free and open to the public. The long running festival features family-friendly activities such as a parade to Boston Common, a spectacular pyrotechnics show, ice sculptures, performances from local artists/musicians, and of course the highly anticipated annual countdown to the New Year. First Night is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, made possible by the generous donations provided by individuals and corporate sponsors.

11/05/2026

Boston’s First Night returns on December 31, and you’re invited to join the party in style - and in costume! Join us in our parade at 6:00 p.m. on December 31, and do so in a costume you’ve created! In the weeks leading up to First Night, we’re hosting FREE costume workshops at various locations across Boston. Our first one is this Sunday at Artists For Humanity in Boston.

This is your chance to create a festive caftan to wear in the First Night Procession on December 31 from 5:00–6:30 PM, just before the family fireworks on Boston Common at 7:00 PM.

What should you expect?
• Take your creation home and wear it in the Procession
• All supplies, advice, and inspiration provided at no cost
• Workshops led by Artists for Humanity, with support from First Night Boston

Who can join?
Everyone! Individuals, families, and kids are all welcome. No experience needed, just bring your imagination.

Want to join us? Check out our current schedule!

Learn more: https://www.firstnightboston.org/workshops/

10/31/2026

Happy Halloween! And here's a "treat" for you: First Night Boston 2027 is only two months away! And look out for our first artist announcement in November. 🎃🍬👻

09/30/2026

Get ready to move and groove because 2027 will be here in THREE MONTHS! Look out for exciting news as we get ready to ring in 2027 with all of you.

09/22/2026

Only 100 days until First Night 2027! We're bringing live music, art installations, and good vibes to Copley Square on December 31, so mark your calendars NOW!

08/31/2026

Bad news: Summer is almost over. 😞

Good news: is only 4 months away! 😁🎉

We can't wait to ring in 2027 with all of you, and stay tuned for news in September. ❤️

08/13/2026

Hey, is this trend still cool? 👀

Anyway, here are a few thing we find kinda ✨chic✨ about First Night Boston!

07/31/2026

The biggest NYE party in the city is only 5 MONTHS away! This is your cue to start making plans for First Night Boston 2027, and we'll see you on December 31.

06/30/2026

We can't believe it but we're almost halfway through 2026! You only have six months to complete your New Year's resolutions (remember those?) and book your trip for First Night Boston 2027!

06/18/2026

We are looking for sponsors to join us at our 51st First Night, Boston’s biggest New Year’s Eve celebration! As the city comes together to ring in 2027, your business can gain valuable visibility, connect with consumers, and be part of one of Boston’s most anticipated annual events.

The family-friendly event welcomes hundreds of thousands of attendees, and features fireworks, live music, ice sculptures, and a parade. Help us make First Night 2027 the best one yet!

Learn more: https://www.firstnightboston.org/sponsorship/