New Year’s Eve with the kids is always a hit or miss for us. Staying up till midnight is somewhat unrealistic when you have small children, but that doesn’t mean parents shouldn’t ring in the New Year in-style. Over the years, our family has sometimes ignored New Year’s Eve completely, some years we’ve gone all out and thrown parties and some years we’ve ventured into the city and celebrated “First Night.”

Float. Photo by Paul Robicheau

What is First Night?

First Night is an ingenious way for families to have a fun and safe New Year’s Eve experience within the confines of a non-alcoholic environment. To replace the traditional pursuit of inebriation, First Night offers high-quality performers, visual artists, and other creative vendors from in and around the community in a kid-friendly environment.

People from all over volunteer and participate to promote diverse and artistic expression. There’s usually a multi-cultural theme to cultivate awareness and performing arts education. Think something akin to a junior version of Burning Man. First Night is often a day-long event, so the kids can get their fill even if you’re unable to stay all the way till the end. People of all ages will find plenty to enjoy during the event, and there will also be plenty of stroller-toting dads in the mix as well!

Origination Performers. Photo by Alonso Nicholas

Where does First Night Take Place?

There are hundreds of cities across the country (and even around the world) now participating in First Night (google to find your nearest location). The city of Boston is considered the birthplace of First Night, and hosts a few hundred different events, exhibits and venues. First Night patrons also enjoy free admission to museums, cultural and educational centers around Boston. Many other large cities have embraced this tradition and now offer similar large-scale events, too (Austin, near DC, Pittsburgh and  St. Louis).   There is an entrance button that’s sold at most local grocery and drug stores. It is low cost (between $8-18), and sometimes includes discounts that last all month.

Family Festival. Photo by Paul Robicheau

Almost all First Night events include a fireworks show at midnight, street performers, cultural foods, and children’s entertainment. And with so many different cities participating, most people are bound to find one nearby!