It’s hard to believe that 2011 is coming to a close and a New Year will usher in.  Gosh, it seems like only recently summer was saying farewell.  Now, decorations dress the stores, holiday music fills our hearts, and year-end plans cross our thoughts.

Well, is there a local New Year’s Eve celebration that stands out?  Yes, First Night Worcester!  Here are some things to know about this exciting event.

• First Night buttons are currently available at assorted locations.  Buttons purchased before 12/25 are $10.  Buttons purchased between 12/25 to 12/30 are $12.  And buttons purchased on December 31 are $15.  Children 7 and under are admitted for free.

• First Night Worcester is a non-profit, completely volunteer extravaganza!  It is financed solely by button sales and the kind support of area businesses.

• First Night Worcester encourages multicultural participation and serves to reinforce community camaraderie through a celebration of the arts.

• First Night parking is available at downtown locations and certain venue sites for varying costs.

• First Night will be held regardless of the weather.  Activities take place inside and outdoors, so bundle up the children!

• First Night family entertainment includes music, fireworks, juggling, storytelling, mimes, and so much more.  Activities such as these typically take place earlier (e.g., 2 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.)

• First Night adult-oriented performances cross a broad spectrum of entertainment genres like classical music, rock music, comedy, and magic.  These performances tend to occur in the evening (e.g., 7 p.m. to midnight).

• First Night volunteers will be on hand at site activities if participants have questions; volunteers will be wearing distinguishable First Night hats.

• First Night guests can swipe their WOO cards to receive 3 points (and be eligible for certain prizes!).

• First Night buttons afford discounts at some local businesses before and after 12/31: ask about button extras.

• First Night Worcester will celebrate at the Hanover Theater in honor of its 30th anniversary from 10 p.m. to midnight for an extra charge.  Multiple performers are lined up for this exciting New Year’s Eve event.  Admission is $30, but the cost is only $20 for individuals who flash a First Night button.  Limited VIP seating and a midnight champagne party are also available for $100 per person.  Cash bar opens at 9 p.m.

So much is happening at First Night Worcester, it’s nearly impossible for a few sentences to fully afford this talent-filled evening a proper account.  For additional information, go to www.firstnightworcester.org.

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