**Heading: Boston’s First Night Festivities Move to City Hall Plaza**
Boston’s annual First Night festivities are set to take place at City Hall Plaza this year, as ongoing construction at Copley Square has forced the relocation. The event, which is free and family-friendly, will feature a range of activities including performances, ice sculptures, fireworks, and more. The New Year’s Eve celebration is organized by Boston Celebrations, Inc, and managed by Conventures, Inc, with the City as a partner. All parties involved are prioritizing public safety during the event.
**Heading: Mayor Wu Encourages Residents to Celebrate Safely**
Boston Mayor Michelle Wu expressed her excitement for the upcoming First Night celebration, stating that it is a beloved tradition for both local residents and visitors from around the world. She emphasized that the newly renovated City Hall Plaza is the ideal venue to welcome families and ring in the New Year. Mayor Wu encouraged all residents to celebrate safely as they welcome 2024.
**Heading: New Additions and Safety Reminders**
This year, First Night will introduce new programming inside Boston City Hall, comedy shows at the ImprovAsylum, and six hours of free carousel rides on the Greenway. The Boston Police Department will be present at the event to ensure a family-friendly environment. Attendees are reminded not to consume alcohol or marijuana in public spaces or prohibited private areas, refrain from flying drones, dress appropriately for the weather, and report any suspicious activity.
**Heading: Parade and Fireworks Schedule**
The festivities will kick off with a parade from City Hall Plaza to the Boston Common at 6:00 p.m., followed by Family Fireworks over the Common at 7:00 p.m. The night will culminate with Midnight Fireworks over Boston Harbor presented by Meet Boston. Detailed programming information for Sunday, December 31, can be found at firstnightboston.org.
**Heading: Traffic and Parking Impact**
Due to First Night activities, traffic and parking in Downtown Boston will be affected. It is strongly recommended that people attending the event avoid driving. More information on parking and traffic restrictions can be found here.
**Heading: MBTA Fare Collection and Holiday Schedules**
To facilitate transportation for the celebration, the MBTA will not collect fares after 8:00 p.m. on New Year’s Eve. Updated holiday schedules can be accessed here.
Boston EMS will also deploy additional personnel across the city to support any emergency medical needs during the event.
Please note that private citizens are prohibited from using, possessing, or selling fireworks, as they pose significant dangers to safety and property.
