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Boston knows how to throw a party, especially on New Year’s Eve. The whole city makes a big deal out of it. Unlike most cities that have epic New Year’s Eve parties, Boston First night starts at 10am. It has two sets of fireworks, including one set for those who don’t want to stay up until midnight. In addition to the fireworks, there are concerts, an ice sculpture contest, a parade, and a light and laser show. Plus it’s all free!

Boston First Night: The Highlights

If you find yourself in Boston on New Year’s Eve, I must recommend going down to Copley Square for the parade. The parade generally starts around 5:30 pm. After the parade passes, the public is invited to follow them to Boston Commons to watch the fireworks.

Make sure that you head back down to the Copley Square area for the light and laser show after the fireworks show. It definitely does not disappoint. It starts at 7pm and continues right up until the midnight countdown.

The ice sculptures and the concerts are also at Copley Square. There is plenty of entertainment until midnight. You’ll also find food trucks and lots of local restaurants to ensure that you don’t get hungry.

For a list of our other favorite restaurants in Boston, look at our post about the Best Restaurants in Boston

More Fireworks? Yes, Please

If you want more fireworks, Boston First Night delivers with a second set of fireworks launched at Midnight over Boston Harbor. But my personal advice would be to attend the 7 pm fireworks at the Commons and then the light and laser show until the midnight countdown. It includes its own pyrotechnics set that makes it worth missing the harbor fireworks. Of course, expect it to be busy in Copley square, but worth it.

For more information on the schedule, locations, and more, you can always head to their website here.