*Updated in December 2019 with 2019 information.
Are you wondering what there is to do in New England for New Year’s Eve? The answer: plenty. There are so many options in each state. Here I’ve made a list of the most popular options from each state:
Boston’s First Night
It’s New England’s largest New Year’s Eve celebration and it’s been going strong since 1975. First Night Boston transforms Copley Square and the Back Bay as they come alive with light displays, ice sculptures and live music. The Boston Public Library hosts performances by Puppet Showplace Theatre and ImprovBoston during the day. Catch an Olympic level figure skating show at the Boston Common Frog Pond at 5:30 p.m. And at 7 p.m., a family fireworks show over Boston Common will light up the night sky.
Portsmouth’s First Night
Photo by: Michael R Goodman
As you can see, First Nights are big here in New England. The First Night Portsmouth celebration takes place at various locations around the city. Spend the final hours of 2019 gazing at the stars with the New Hampshire Astronomical Society. Music lovers have multiple options, as musicians will perform classical, gospel and blues. Don’t forget to catch the fireworks at 7:30 p.m. at South Mill Pond.
Hartford’s First Night
There are many fun options at First Night Hartford throughout the day. You can enjoy a horse drawn wagon ride or hop on a train or carousel at First Night Hartford. Or go ice-skating at Bushnell Park or join the dance party on Trinity Street. The night concludes with two fireworks shows in Bushnell Park, a family friendly show at 6 p.m. and one at midnight.
Bangor’s Countdown Downtown
At this 16thannual Countdown Downtown celebration a beach ball drop at West Market Square at midnight, how fun? This festive celebration
One Providence New Years Eve
Join the ball drop in Rhode Island at Waterplace Park during One Providence NYE. The party starts at 7 p.m. and guests can take in a laser light show and food and beverages from local food trucks. The ball drop and countdown will begin at 11:55 p.m., followed by a fireworks display at midnight.
If you aren’t into partying on New Year’s Eve don’t forget about all of the Polar Bear plunges taking place on January 1st. Take a cold dip for charity in Newport, Rhode Island, one of the most popular options. Dive into the frigid Atlantic off Easton’s Beach or come to lend support. Either way, the proceeds from the swim and the after-swim party benefit A Wish Come True. How great to start your 2020 by giving back! Massachusetts has several polar bear plunge options as well, click here, to find events from Boston to the Berkshires in support of the Special Olympics.
Wishing you a happy and healthy 2020. Remember it’s the 20’s again!
