First Night Boston is kicking off the new year in a new location: City Hall Plaza.
The annual New Year’s Eve celebration will move from Copley Square to the newly-refurbished downtown plaza for a 12-hour marathon of music, entertainment, and winter wonders. Festivities begin at 11 a.m. on Sunday, Dec. 31, lasting until 12:30 a.m. on New Year’s Day.
Here’s what you need to know about the event’s new location + updated schedule.
Getting there
Multiple T stations encircle City Hall Plaza, including Haymarket, Government Center, and State Street. Review the MBTA’s holiday service schedule, which includes increased service after 3 p.m. on New Year’s Eve.
While organizers strongly suggest using public transportation, nearby parking garages include the Center Plaza Garage, City Place Garage, Pi Alley Parking Garage, Dock Square Parking Garage, and the Garage at Post Office Square. The city has also organized a First Night Boston SpotHero Parking page for visitors who want to reserve a spot in advance.
Can’t-miss celebrations
Find ice sculptures that will melt your heart along the waterfront of Boston Harbor all day on New Year’s Eve. After admiring the winter artistry, guests can watch the annual First Night parade march from City Hall Plaza to Boston Common at 6 p.m.
Then end 2023 with a bang — a touch early — with fireworks over the Common at 7 p.m., followed by a second display at midnight over Boston Inner Harbor + City Hall Plaza.
Take note of these musical guests
The main stage at City Hall Plaza will host performances from over a dozen New England artists, including LIZJE, Koliba, Maddi Ryan, Guess Method, and Ayla Brown + Rob Bellamy.
Pro tip: Don’t miss local hip-hop standouts Nancia (9:30 p.m.) and headliner Sammy Adams (11:30 p.m.).
View the complete entertainment schedule, which kicks off at 11:10 a.m.
