Boston bringing back indoor activities for First Night 2023
BOSTON -- The city of Boston is getting ready for its New Year's Eve festivities, First Night. For the first time since 2020, some traditional favorites are making their return.
"This is the first time since the pandemic that we are able to once again host indoor events as part of the celebration. So there will be indoor programming in the Boston Public Library, Copley Place Mall, and some churches across the city," said Mayor Michelle Wu at a press conference about the event Wednesday.
Clara Wainright co-founded first night 48 years ago.
"It started around my dinner table and the first meeting was a group of artists," she said, recalling that original plans called for city churches to be the center of the celebration. "That it would be a night for all. Wouldn't need a babysitter. You could bring your kids."
This year, the New England Aquarium is featuring African penguin sculptures.
"We have really highlighted our penguins this year as an endangered species," said Kristen McMahon-Van Oss, of the New England Aquarium, which has 39 of the penguins in their care. "They could go extinct in 5-10 years so it's a serious problem."
There will also be family-friendly programs, including puppet shows, fireworks displays, and live music. In addition to being free, train service in the city will be extended to 2 a.m.
For more information about the event, visit firstnightboston.org.
