**Title: Boston’s First Night Festivities Draw Hundreds to City Hall Plaza**
**Introduction**
Boston residents and visitors from all over gathered on City Hall Plaza on Sunday to celebrate the annual First Night festivities. This year, the event was relocated to City Hall Plaza due to ongoing construction at Copley Square. The free and family-friendly celebration featured a variety of performances, ice sculptures, fireworks, and more. With public safety as a top priority, the City of Boston partnered with Boston Celebrations, Inc and Conventures, Inc to ensure a memorable and secure New Year’s Eve experience.
**A Beloved Tradition in Boston**
Boston Mayor Michelle Wu expressed her excitement for the event, stating that First Night is a cherished tradition that brings joy to both local residents and visitors from around the world. The newly renovated City Hall Plaza served as the perfect venue to welcome families and individuals from all walks of life to ring in the New Year. Mayor Wu encouraged everyone to celebrate safely as they welcomed 2024.
**Exciting Additions to the Festivities**
This year’s First Night celebration offered new programming options to enhance the experience. Inside Boston City Hall, attendees could enjoy various activities, while comedy shows were held at the ImprovAsylum. Additionally, six hours of free carousel rides were available on the Greenway, adding to the festive atmosphere.
**Ensuring Public Safety**
The Boston Police Department played an integral role in ensuring a safe environment for all attendees. They reminded everyone not to consume alcohol or marijuana in public or prohibited private spaces, refrain from flying drones during the event, dress appropriately for the weather, and report any suspicious activity. Their presence provided reassurance and support throughout the festivities.
**Highlights of the Evening**
The evening’s events included 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 concluded with Midnight Fireworks over Boston Harbor, presented by Meet Boston. For more detailed information about the programming on Sunday, December 31, visit firstnightboston.org.
**Traffic and Parking Considerations**
First Night festivities had an impact on traffic and parking in Downtown Boston. To alleviate congestion, individuals were strongly encouraged not to drive into the city. Detailed information regarding parking and traffic restrictions can be found [here](https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001g6WCKv0hIXWFO9sV4m2ur7aW8U3Q62wRyyF-A7NlDCcduRHWL-kJiVYE_s4ZjVxQEdnFe-0UVbd4FuPf993oMkgaab2LbInZxZEYA99d-V9PBrwvNxZvNXbCtzf5KDwpJBnZ6JsHLO7zrY83CqqDUQGbYwiEe3GnuFncUAiTpXLLJshpp7_ejlGIqqbjumd1&c=KLrGq_OUVa1E76T2uc6Z-l8ZNBzYEPF_W5Qp2Rp6PGoBJrLoSMInYA==&ch=PKKmbwZxjT6VPmRYA5hJzt4Cwcyri27TqwSuQnfti7rn0P9cf-ySKA==).
**MBTA Support and Updated Schedules**
To facilitate transportation during the festivities, the MBTA announced that fares would not be collected after 8:00 p.m. on New Year’s Eve. Updated holiday schedules can be found [here](https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001g6WCKv0hIXWFO9sV4m2ur7aW8U3Q62wRyyF-A7NlDCcduRHWL-kJiV7LTzkWds7wVc_EgOlWzfCZXNS9YFff6CN0fOQomg7BXQGAMBtiGTCxV1g7YEmqN2Vvr2ceeeaeySTbPCSG_mKuBDz_DJJ9LQ==&c=KLrGq_OUVa1E76T2uc6Z-l8ZNBzYEPF_W5Qp2Rp6PGoBJrLoSMInYA==&ch=PKKmbwZxjT6VPmRYA5hJzt4Cwcyri27TqwSuQnfti7rn0P9cf-ySKA==).
**Conclusion**
Boston’s First Night festivities brought together a diverse crowd to celebrate the New Year in a safe and enjoyable environment. The event showcased the city’s commitment to tradition, community, and public safety. As the clock struck midnight, fireworks illuminated the sky over Boston Harbor, marking the beginning of a promising year ahead.
