New Year’s Eve is a time to party. But it’s also a time for family. That’s why, every year, a family friendly celebration is held at The Convention Center. The event is called First Night Buffalo – it’s an alcohol and drug-free escapade featuring costumed characters, obstacle challenges, bounce houses, etc. Over 5,000 people attend First Night Buffalo every year, to kick the New Year off right by participating in recreational diversions that include visual and performing arts, music and dance, sports activities, and children’s entertainment.
This year’s adventures include (see schedule):
- Storybook Characters
- Family Portrait at the Green Screen & Arts and Crafts
- Face Painting & Bubble Black Light Dance Party
- Laser Tag
- Jeff Musial—The Animal Guy
- In Jest with Nels Ross
- DownBeat Percussion
- Cortney Chyme and Ryan Kaminski
- Toddler Zone
- Hybrid Fitness: Ninja Warrior Academy
- Spider-Man and Black Panther
- Amusement Rides and Inflatable Fun
- ComedySportz
The Independent Health Foundation is responsible for First Night Buffalo going off without a hitch year after year. It is interesting to note that this First Night concept first originated in Boston, Mass. as a celebration of the arts, before it was brought to Buffalo in 1989 by WNY United Against Drugs and Alcohol Abuse in cooperation with Rich Products (see history). While the event was well received, it struggled with funding. Three years in, the Independent Health Foundation was founded, which secured the fruitful future of the event.
30th Anniversary of First Night Buffalo
Monday, December 31, 2018
5:00 pm – 9:30 pm
Buffalo Convention Center | 153 Franklin Street | Buffalo, NY 14202
Tickets will be available at the door for a higher price.
Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Children 2 and under are free.
Photos Courtesy First Night Buffalo