First Night revives the ancient traditions of marking the passage of time in a present day context. It was created by a group of civic-minded artists in Boston as a meaningful alternative to traditional New Year’s Eve revelry. Offered to the city as a finale to its Bicentennial events in 1976, First Night Boston also began a new tradition, bringing neighboring communities together through a joint Celebration.

Framed as a family-friendly event, First Night is known as the alcohol free, alternative community celebration on December 31st.
Portsmouth became a First Night community in 1986 and we continue to celebrate First Night with fireworks and ice sculpture.

First Night Activities:

This year’s First Night plan is focused on the great outdoors, and features ice sculpture and fireworks.
Ice Sculpture carving/setup begins at approx. 2:00 p.m
Fireworks Displays (South Mill Pond) at 7:30 p.m

Date: December 31, 2023

Location: Piscataqua River

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