Boston families can welcome 2027 with a full day of free celebration. First Night Boston, the city’s beloved New Year’s Eve tradition since 1976, returns on Thursday, December 31, with performances, interactive art installations and family-friendly activities throughout the city — and, as the organizers confirm, it is entirely free and open to all, with no purchase required to attend any event.
The fun starts early enough for the youngest revelers. Ice sculptures, a cherished First Night tradition, will be on view in Copley Square from noon on December 31 until 12:30 a.m. on January 1, and weather permitting, some may remain on display into New Year’s Day. Families can even catch the ice carvers adding their final touches during the early part of the evening.
When darkness falls, Boston gets two fireworks shows instead of one. The Mugar Family Fireworks light up Boston Common at 7:00 p.m., right after the First Night Procession — a perfect early show for children who cannot stay up until midnight. Then, at the stroke of midnight, the First Night Harbor Fireworks dazzle over Boston’s Inner Harbor and skyline to officially welcome 2027.
The full schedule of performances is still to come, and organizers note that all performances are free, though indoor shows may have capacity limits and are first come, first served — so arriving early is a smart family strategy. Happy City News will share the lineup as soon as it is announced.
Photo: First Night Boston
