Boston kicks off family friendly First Night celebration
BOSTON - Final preparations were underway in downtown Boston on Monday ahead of the city's First Night celebration, which kicked off Tuesday at noon.
"First of all. They're delicious," said Joshua, who's prepping his famous tornado fries, spiraled potatoes dipped in all kinds of seasoning for Boston's New Year's Eve celebrations.
It's just one of many food options lining City Hall Plaza for First Night. "I love seeing all the people, love seeing everyone have fun for the New Year's," said Joshua.
Thousands are expected to celebrate the old and ring in the new.
"New Year's Eve is one of the only times the whole world is celebrating together. We're here to celebrate family," said Boston visitor Allison Pernic.
With ice sculptures, live music, arts and crafts for kids and, of course, fireworks.
"We have a four-year-old, so we're not going to make it to midnight but that's OK," said Pernic.
Two fireworks displays, early celebrations
The city has thought of that, planning two fireworks displays: seven o'clock at Boston Common and midnight fireworks over Boston Harbor.
"This is an event to highlight family and enjoyment, so we do want to keep it safe for everybody," said First Night organizer Cara Willison.
And it's not just the fireworks that will accommodate families. Willison and her team kicked off First Night with a music program for little ones in City Hall Pavillion.
And leading up to the 7 p.m. fireworks, the day is packed with family-friendly events, including a puppet show at 2 p.m. Then at 3 p.m. and 5:30 p.m., there are two ice skating shows at Frog Pond on Boston Common.
After the 7 p.m. fireworks, attendees can enjoy live music at City Hall Plaza, leading up to the New Year's countdown.
"Starting at 2 o'clock running all the way through midnight - through our countdown - we have some really cool, diverse performances, really highlighting the different cultures that make Boston so special," she said. "(We want) to have activities for kids in strollers all the way through adults."
City officials have safety measures in place for Tuesday's events.
No drones, public drinking
"We have a comprehensive safety plan that will support this family friendly event," said Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox. He is reminding people that public drinking and marijuana consumption is prohibited, drones are not allowed in the area and personal fireworks are illegal.
"Please leave the fireworks to the professionals," said Boston Fire Chief Paul Burke.
This is only the second time City Hall Plaza has hosted the event. Mayor Michelle Wu is welcoming locals and visitors alike. "This is an annual tradition that brings people together from all around the world," Wu said.
If you are celebrating the New Year at City Hall Plaza, officials ask you to take public transportation to get there.
