Many Bay Staters think of Boston’s notorious First Night celebration as the go-to event for New Year’s Eve festivities in Massachusetts, but there are plenty of other fun events going on across the state for you to choose from.
First Night Chatham — If you’re on or close to the Cape, you’ll want to check out First Night Chatham’s 33rd annual celebration, which boasts of offering over 70 performances and events. The event’s highlights include a Noise Parade at and fireworks.
New Bedford drone light show — For the first time ever, the City of New Bedford is offering a drone light show at 8 p.m. Other New Year’s Eve celebration events across the city, including a puppet show and fire dancers, begin at 5 p.m.
First Night Northampton —Western Massachusetts residents know how special Northampton’s First Night events are. With a variety of performances starting at noon, you won’t want to miss the fireworks at 6 p.m. or the ball raising at 11:30 p.m.
First Night at Patriot Place — Patriot Place in Foxborough is having a New Year’s Eve celebration from 4 to 7 p.m. that will feature ice sculptures and music. Fireworks begin at 7 p.m., and other bars and restaurants at the shopping center will host other events afterwards.
Rockport New Year’s Eve — This event’s tagline is “small town, BIG celebration” for a reason. Entertainment including performances and food trucks begin at 4 p.m., and highlights include a 6 p.m. parasol parade and a ball drop at midnight.
Salem LAUNCH! — This family-friendly event runs from 4:30 to 6 p.m. and offers free face-painting and hot cocoa.
Wachusett Mountain — You can enjoy New Year’s Eve at Wachusett Mountain in Princeton even if you’re not a skier or snowboarder. The ski resort will have performances including music and magic beginning at 7:30 p.m., as well as fireworks at 10 p.m. and a champagne toast at midnight. Those with tickets can ski or simply ride the resort’s lifts from 7:30 p.m. to midnight.
Providence New Year’s Eve Celebration — Those on the Rhode Island border may want to cross state lines to visit Providence for New Year’s Eve. The city’s event will feature food trucks, roaming entertainment, and of course, its signature WaterFire display. The city will also set off fireworks at 8:30 p.m.
First Night Hartford — Western Massachusetts residents on the Connecticut border may want to check out the City of Hartford’s First Night celebration. There will be musical performances, free ice skating, a 5 p.m. parade and fireworks at 6 p.m. and midnight.
First Night Portsmouth — North Shore residents may feel like popping over to New Hampshire for the City of Portsmouth’s First Night celebration. The event will feature ice sculptures and a fireworks display at 7:30 p.m.