This year marks the 31st annual First Night celebration of the arts in downtown Springfield.
The alcohol-free gathering is set for Sunday, New Year’s Eve. It gets underway with free events for kids and continues into the evening at several venues. You'll need to purchase a wristband for admission to the later performances. For adults, the cost is $18 in advance ($20 at the door) and $5 for children ages 5 through 18. Advanced sales will end at Noon on Saturday, December 30. Wristbands will be available in-person at the Hoogland Center for the Arts box office, online at www.hcfta.org, and in-person at four Bank of Springfield locations (Wabash, Stevenson, Chatham, and Madison).
Courtney Wick, President of the Board of the Springfield Area Arts Council, points out there are performers for all tastes and ages.
“We have a really strong arts community. It's a culmination of all Springfield has to offer," she said.
Note: fireworks scheduled for First Night have been cancelled due to the cold The rest of the event will go an as scheduled.
