Now in its 25th year, First Night Buffalo has become a wild success in that it attracts approximately 5000 people to downtown Buffalo for a New Year’s Eve party that is family friendly and lots of fun. While today the event is a slam dunk, there was a time, right out of the gate, that First Night hit a rocky road due to lack of funding. After only three years in existence the event was canceled. Then, in 1992 Independent Health stepped in and took First Night under its wing. The rest is history, and today First Night shines as an always-promising drug and alcohol-free event that incorporates activities that range from poetry to interactive dance, to comedy, magic and puppet shows… there’s something for everyone no matter the age.
First Night has become an indispensable pre-ball drop party that gets the older crowds raring to go for the rest of the downtown New Year’s activities, while giving the youngsters a chance to do some celebrating early on.
To see all of the scheduling (5pm-10pm) for the evening, click here. This year’s line-up looks great, with guests that include Xpogo (extreme pogo) and The Red Trouser Show (includes knife and fire juggling). Once again, The Convention Center will be filled with myriad shows intended to delight any and all who visit.
First Night Buffalo | Tuesday December 31, 2013 | 5-10pm | $8 presale @ Wegman’s| Children under 2 get in free | Free parking at Main Place Mall and the Ferrnbach Ramp.
Kevin McCarthy
Welcome to the 25th anniversary of First Night Buffalo. Receive a commemorative gift as you join us this year, and enjoy entertainer Kevin McCarthy as his renditions of popular songs fill the lobby with excitement.
The Red Trouser Show
This combination of precision acrobatics with intense knife and fire juggling will have you in awe. Without a single dull moment and non-stop action, you will laugh while your heart is pounding with excitement. The show ends with a stunt performed over 20 feet in the air! Don’t miss the chance to be astounded!
Evan Young
Outfitted with a distinctive mix of quick wit, youthful energy, and stunning juggling skills, Evan keeps audiences laughing, amused, and amazed Juggling with a bowling ball? Come see this and much more!
Xpogo
Come see Steven, a member of the Xpogo Stunt Team, the most talented and experienced extreme pogo performance team in the world. Jumping over 9 feet in the air, while throwing down flips and incredible tricks, Steven is sure to impress.
Midway Caravan: The Backyard Circus & Family Puppet Parade
Bring your imagination and come participate in a backyard circus. Enthusiastic children from the audience will be chosen to be part of the circus; be a lion, the ringmaster, or even walk the tightrope! A Family Puppet Parade will take place at the conclusion of each show.
Nickel City Reptiles & Exotics
Back by popular demand! Recently making appearances on “Late Night with Jimmy Fallon”, Jeff Musial keeps audiences smiling and laughing with his witty comments and fun facts on his scaly, furry and feathered friends. Don’t miss this exciting and interactive show.
Peter Boie, Magician for Non-Believers
Peter Boie is sure to entertain everyone from the hard-to-please teenager to parents to grandparents and everyone in between. His award winning, mind blowing magic show will make you gasp in awe, laugh ’til it hurts and inspire your imagination.
Take the Fitness for Kids Family Challenge!
Bring your family and lots of energy as you test your skills and knowledge. Run, jump and battle it out for a healthier you! 25 lucky families will win! Set a healthy goal and get a prize.
Toddler Zone
Bring your little ones (ages 6 and under) to explore their favorite play houses, ride on toys, and play some over-sized games!
Costumed Characters
Bring your camera to meet Bob the Builder, Iron Man, Mike the Knight, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, Wild Thing and Clifford.
Laser Tag
A First Night favorite, children ages 6 and up can take a turn at this fast-paced game of high-tech hide-and-seek.
Tekno Bubble Black Light Dance Party
Get your face painted, then dance the night away at the tekno bubble dance party! This special room is full of mega-large, super cool, bubbles, special black lights, and music. We guarantee you won’t be able to stand still!
Health Screenings
Stop by and learn how to be healthier in 2014! Be good to your body. Kick start the new year by checking your blood pressure, cholesterol and percentage of body fat to see how you can be healthier in 2014. Smokers can also have a special lung test performed and receive information on how to quit.
Amusement Rides
Take a ride on the musical swings, climb the rock wall, or spin around in the Octopus. Thrill rides for kids of all ages!
Inflatable Fun
Cruise through an obstacle course or jump around in a bounce house!
DUI Simulator
With the epidemic of distracted driving, it’s critical for the safety of drivers to check out this unique distracted driving simulator to learn the dangers of driving while distracted or impaired.
Multi-Cultural Stage
Come visit and learn more about these groups:
Hispanic Heritage Council of WNY
Buffalo Native Resource Center
African American Cultural Center
Polish Heritage Dancers of WNY
Performance Schedule:
5:00-5:45 Orquesta Salsabor Band performing with Latin Souls Dance Group
6:00-6:10 Rince na Tiarna
6:20-6:35 Native American Hoop Dancers
6:45-7:00 African American Cultural Center Dance and Drum Performance
7:15-7:30 Rince na Tiarna
7:45-8:00 Polish Heritage Dancers of WNY
8:15-8:30 Iroquois Social Dance
9:00-9:45 Orquesta Salsabor Band performing with Latin Souls Dance Group
GRAND FINALE!
Don’t miss the grand finale countdown and the balloon drop.