HARTFORD, Conn. — The 35th annual tradition of First Night is returning this weekend in Hartford to bring in 2024.
This year’s celebration invites everyone to enjoy the best of Downtown Hartford as the celebration takes place this Sunday, December 31 from 2 p.m. to midnight with the two traditional fireworks shows at 6 p.m. and midnight.
Several of Downtown Hartford’s arts hotspots will host activities ranging from live music performances, DJs, dance, comedy, improv, theater, crafts, and more. Community partners include the Bushnell Park Carousel, Winterfest Ice Skating Rink, TheaterWorks Hartford, Sea Tea Comedy Theater, Connecticut’s Old State House, Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art, Christ Church Cathedral, Center Church, Sunberry, Emrey’s Specialty Sweets & Soda Shop, One Bar & Kitchen, and Trumbull Kitchen.
The purchase of a First Night button is required to attend the indoor First Night programming while the outdoor main stage, dual fireworks displays, and Winterfest ice skating are free to all in attendance. Buttons are available here and will be available at the event at all locations including First Night’s Union Station Great Hall Headquarters for the day.
Attendees are encouraged to start their day at Union Station to pick up buttons and enjoy a kids’ craft, a live DJ, vendors, a silent auction, and a 50/50 raffle. Additional vendors and food trucks are located on Trinity Street by the main stage in Bushnell Park.
This year’s performance partners and artists include the Dwayne Keith Project, Jonathan Barber “Stay Hartford,” DJ Kasey Cortez, Jen Allen & Leala Cyr, DJ Eric Otero, DJ Ch’Varda and more.
The main stage is located on Trinity Street, beneath the Soldiers and Sailors Arch. It serves as a common gathering place for entertainment, food trucks, information, and the best vantage point for the fireworks displays.
There will be a full lineup from 2 p.m. to midnight at the main stage.
The 6 p.m. show will kick off with the arrival of the beloved and traditional People’s Parade led by Anne Cubberly’s Giant Puppets and the Hartford Hot Several, and the midnight show will welcome the New Year as the culmination of this important and joyful regional tradition.
Main Stage:
Live DJ Kasey Cortez 4:30-5:15 p.m.
Celebratory Inauguration of Arunan Arulampalum, Incoming Mayor of Hartford! 5:15-5:30 p.m.
Dwayne Keith Project 5:30-6 p.m.
Fireworks 6 p.m.
Jen Allen & Leala Cyr 10:20-11 p.m.
Jonathan Barber “Stay Hartford” 11:25 p.m. to Midnight
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