Update: Boston’s ‘First Night’ returns with an in-person celebration, AND midnight fireworks

BOSTON — There’s an update on plans to ring in the new year as “First Night Boston” returns with a planned in-person celebration.

The midnight fireworks over Boston Harbor are back now too.

On Monday, the schedule for First Night was released, with only a 7:00 p.m. “Family Fireworks” display over the Boston Common.

When Boston 25 reached out to Mayor Michelle Wu’s office about the lack of a midnight fireworks show, the mayor’s office deferred comment to Conventures, Inc., which is producing First Night Boston. Conventures had previously indicated another organization, “Boston Harbor Now” usually funds the midnight fireworks.

A spokesman for Conventures said “If and when they announce their plans we’ll reflect the updates on our schedule.”

Now, that has happened.

The Friends of Christopher Columbus Park and Boston Harbor Now announced Friday this year’s New Year’s Eve midnight fireworks will take place over the inner Boston Harbor between the North End and East Boston neighborhoods of the city.

The tradition is returning through support from local businesses, waterfront organizations, and the City of Boston.

“I’m thrilled for Boston to ring in the New Year with the return of midnight fireworks over the harbor! Thank you to all of our partners for bringing back this tradition for everyone to enjoy together, creating a delightful start to 2022 for residents, visitors, and all spectators at the waterfront,” said Mayor Michelle Wu.

First Night Boston is the longest-running First Night celebration in the world, founded in 1977.

This year’s family-friendly event event will run from 12:00 p.m. on Friday, December 31, 2021 through 12:30 a.m. on Saturday, January 1, 2022, featuring a wide range of local musicians, artists, and performers.

Among the other highlights:

The “People’s Procession” will step off at 6:00 p.m. from Copley Square to Boston Common.

A “Family Fireworks” display at 7:00 p.m. over the Boston Common.

A countdown to midnight with a “Pyrotechnics & Light Show, with a multi-sensory display of live music in Copley Square” and the additional midnight fireworks over Boston Harbor.

COVID-19 restrictions forced an online celebration of First Night last year, and the cancellation of the both fireworks displays then.

First Night is produced in partnership with the City of Boston.

First Night Boston says it will adhere to all current city and state safety precautions as it relates to COVID-19, including mandatory mask wearing at indoor venues.

“If city and state recommendations are adjusted as the New Year draws closer, First Night Boston will similarly adjust its guidelines to comply with those set by governing bodies.” according to a statement from organizers.

More information on First Night Boston 2022 can he found here.

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