First Night Raleigh is the most fun and exciting New Years Eve celebration in eastern North Carolina! A Raleigh tradition since 1990, it’s not just about the giant acorn drop at midnight! The festival, which has grown and evolved with downtown Raleigh over the years, has nearly 100 fun interactive activities and performances happening in over three dozen locations throughout downtown. Non-stop fun for all ages includes music, art, comedy, theatre, crafts and more throughout the course of the day and night.
As you consider your plans with family and friends for this New Year’s Eve, we highly recommend this event for the entire family! If you’re headed there, you will want to ‘Know Before You Go’ so you can plan your time there and take in all of the fun!
When – Tuesday, December 31, 2019 starting at 2pm
Admission – All day passes are required for access to all of the performances and interactive activities. Passes are on sale for $11 in advance and $15 the day of; Children age 6-12 are $12; Children under 5 free with accompanying paid adult. Click here to purchase your pass in advance online. Passes may also be purchased ahead of time at various participating Raleigh locations.
New Children’s Celebration – 2-6pm includes hands on workshops and performances by rising stars of the Triangle. Click here for all of the details on the workshop locations. Passes are required for access to the workshops.
People’s Procession & Early Countdown – Main stage, Fayetteville & Davie Street 5:30pm – 7pm. Enjoy a musical performance by Barefoot Movement bluegrass group.
Park & Ride – GoRaleigh buses will be operating a park and ride system into downtown beginning at 5pm from Triangle Town Center and NCSU until 1am. One way fares are $1.25 and round trip for $2.50. Click here for more information.
Downtown Event Parking -Pay $5 to park in city owned parking decks and lots around Downtown Raleigh. Click here for parking locations.
Food – Various food and beverage vendors will be located on Bicentennial Plaza and various locations along Fayetteville Street. Click here to see who will be there. Most restaurants within the restaurant footprint will be open and serving as well.
Restrooms – Portable restrooms will be available throughout the festival area on Morgan, Martin and Davie Streets.
The Margulies Team at Allen Tate Realtors wishes you and your loved ones a Happy & Healthy New Year 2020!!