About
First Night has been created for you, the participants. First Night is an alcohol-free, celebration of the New Year with music, art, ritual, and festivity. First Night was founded in Boston in 1976 by civic-minded artists, as a meaningful alternative to traditional New Year’s revelry. The purpose of the celebration is to recapture the symbolic significance of the passage from the old year to the new, to unite the community through a shared cultural celebration, to deepen and broaden the public’s appreciation of the visual and performing arts. There are more than 150 First Night celebrations in the US, Canada, New Zealand, and England. First Night Columbia is a member of the national organization of First Night USA, which assists all interested communities in establishing the celebration.
First Night® Columbia is one of the many community events in Columbia created to bring the community together and to welcome visitors to our city to celebrate together. The event creates community as the community creates the event. Many people have given many hours of their time to make this event possible. You can tell who they are–the ones with the flashing buttons and volunteer ribbons. Please thank them!
Also, this event would not happen without the support of our sponsors. The financial support for First Night comes in the form of grants, trusts, funding from local businesses, and in-kind support. Without the support from sponsors, this event would not happen. Please thank the sponsors for their support and community spirit when you visit their businesses.
The arts are an important part of our lives. From the music we hear to the art we see, the arts inspire and enrich our lives. First Night provides an opportunity to enjoy a wide variety of entertainment and art and we hope that you have a great time!
Happy New Year!
Jane Accurso
Director
jane@firstnightcolumbia.org
573 673-8477
