First Night Boston 2025

Enjoy free admission to the How Do You See the World? experience + Mapparium™ globe from 11 a.m.-5 p.m., a tour of The Mother Church at 1 p.m., and visit the Christian Science Reading Room from 11:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Organ concert at 2 p.m.

Sweet Harmony is one of Riverside Theatre Works' premier vocal performance troupes. Their repertoire features music spanning many periods and styles - from pop to Broadway, jazz to rock, classical to swing. They can be found entertaining crowds in Boston and throughout New England, bringing joy to all through their music.

Don't miss the Boston Saxophone Quartet as they showcase a tremendous combination of woodwind performance with a wide range of repertoire including swing, jazz, and more!

They will be preforming at the City Hall Pavilion. No tickets or purchase are required for entry. All availability is on a first come, first served basis.

The Greenway Carousel on Rose Kennedy Greenway is offering free carousel rides from 12:00pm to 6:00pm.

Downtown Boston BID presents Echoes - a voice from uncharted waters by Mathias Gmachl on the stage at The Steps at Downtown Crossing. The interactive installation, which invites the public to take in its spectacle while considering our impact on nature and the environment, combines sound-and-light elements with a 56-foot-long, 11,000-pound metal representation of a whale. After stops around the world -- most recently in New York City -- the corner of Washington & Franklin streets will be Echoes' home for the next four months. Echoes is the first of more than a dozen planned public art features meant to encourage Bostonians and visitors to get out and explore Downtown in the heart of winter. Echoes - a voice from uncharted waters, by Mathias Gmachl, is a co-production of Quartier des spectacles Partnership (Canada) MuseumsQuartier Wien (Austria) and the LAC Lugano Arte e Cultura (Switzerland), distributed by QDSinternational.

Ava Gaudin and Cam Hebert have played together at venues and festivals all over New England. They have a healthy mix of Pop, Rock and Country songs spanning decades. The duo has a unique chemistry that combines Ava’s sweet yet powerful vocals with Cam’s intricate guitar playing and passion for performance. Together they share their love for music and playing for a live audience.

Check out the performances in City Hall, and try out drumming and dulcimer, guzheng, and Chinese yo-yo!

12:15 Drum and Dulcimer performance by Shirley Wong and her students
12:45 Dancer by the Angel Dance Troupe
1:15 Yo-yo performance by GBCCA Diabolo Troupe
1:45 Drum and Dulcimer performance by Shirley Wong and her students
2:00 Guzheng performance by Boston Guzheng ensemble
2:30 Dancer by the Angel Dance Troupe
3:00 Yo-yo performance followed by GBCCA Diabolo Troupe
3:30 Guzheng performance by Boston Guzheng Ensemble

Enter at the City Hall north entrance across from the playground.

Returning to First Night this year, Paco and his band will be back on the main stage performing some of your favorite 50's and 60's hit oldies music.

Through his passion for singing and entertaining, Paco hopes to help others find joy, peace and meaning through music and visual arts. Paco and his band have a repertoire ranging from holiday songs, pop-rock to classic oldies music. Be sure to watch their sizzling performance!

The Greater Boston Chinese Cultural Association (GBCCA) will provide hands-on arts and crafts activities in City Hall Plaza on the second floor for all to enjoy! The GBCCA will also perform in the First Night Boston Parade at 6:00 p.m.

The arts and crafts projects include:

• Translate your name into Chinese
• Calligraphy for New Year blessings, the year of the Dragon
• Sparkling New Year good wishes
• Dragons in motion
• Silk macrame dolls
• Face painting
• Chopsticks and marble game
• Snow flake making

The Greater Boston Chinese Cultural Association (GBCCA) is a registered non-political, non-profit organization that promotes public awareness of Chinese culture and heritage, and enhances the well-being and social standing of Chinese Americans. At First Night, the group entertains and educates audiences about Chinese culture, language, and arts. With nearly 60 years of history, GBCCA has innumerable accomplishments and memories from over the years. They are a returner to First Night!

No tickets or purchase are required for entry. All availability is on a first come, first served basis.

Boston Music Project is a creative youth development program committed to ensuring the long-term social-emotional and musical success of Boston youth. Through before, in-school, after school programs, students unleash their musical creativity, developing their instrumental skills on string, brass, and wind instruments.

Improv Asylum’s audience-interactive and lightning-fast improv that you’ve loved for years is now available for the whole family! This New Year’s Eve, come by Improv Asylum in Boston’s North End for the Made-Up Matinee - a show designed for kids between the ages of 5-14 that parents will be able to get down with as well! Every show is different because it’s based on your family’s suggestions. Come by for some complimentary hot chocolate and family-friendly comedy to send off 2023 with a bang!

No tickets or purchase are required for entry. All availability is on a first come, first served basis.

Improv Asylum address:
216 Hanover Street
Boston, MA 02113

Start your First Night at The First Church of Christ, Scientist, with the glorious sounds of one of the world’s largest pipe organs. Co-sponsored by the Boston chapter of the American Guild of Organists, the concert will feature three celebrated Boston-area organists, Gigi Mitchell-Velasco, Director of Music for First Church Boston; Brink Bush, International Concert Organist; Cathy Meyer, Minister of Music and organist for Andover’s South Church (UCC).

Also on the Christian Science Plaza, enjoy free admission to the How Do You See the World? experience + Mapparium™ globe from 11am-5pm, tours of The Mother Church at 1pm,, and visit the Christian Science Reading Room from 11:00am-4:30pm.

The Lied To's, an americana-folk rock duo from Massachusetts made up of musicians Doug Kwartler and Susan Levine will take the stage.

The Lied To’s “uniquely blend folk, rock, bluegrass, and country in ways that capture their distinctive style, one that feels both contemporary and timeless.” - The Daily Country

The Lied To's took their name from the revered Everly Brothers song, "When Will I Be Loved.” Their self-titled debut cd, released in 2015, rose to the top of the roots rock charts and landed in the top 100 of the prestigious No Depression readers' poll. Their second cd, The Lesser of Two Evils, released in May 2018, received universal praise for its gritty instrumentation, impeccable harmonies and honest songwriting. Tom Haugen of The Daily Vault called it, “…nothing short of brilliant.”

Their recently released third album,The Worst Kind of New, has garnered outstanding reviews and received radio airplay around the world. The Lied To’s have played sold-out concerts at Club Passim in Cambridge, MA, and The Bluebird Cafe in Nashville, TN.

Tristen Gressett and Delaney Renee are a refreshing glimpse into the past! You can expect a performance filled with love, laughter, and soul! Delaney grew up right here in Mass and Tristen in Alabama, both smalltown kids with huge dreams. They flew all the way from Hollywood, California to deliver a spectacular show!

Instagrams:
https://www.instagram.com/delaneyreneewilson/?hl=en
https://www.instagram.com/tristengressettmusic/?hl=en

Improv Asylum’s audience-interactive and lightning-fast improv that you’ve loved for years is now available for the whole family! This New Year’s Eve, come by Improv Asylum in Boston’s North End for the Made-Up Matinee - a show designed for kids between the ages of 5-14 that parents will be able to get down with as well! Every show is different because it’s based on your family’s suggestions. Come by for some complimentary hot chocolate and family-friendly comedy to send off 2023 with a bang!

No tickets or purchase are required for entry. All availability is on a first come, first served basis.

Improv Asylum address:
216 Hanover Street
Boston, MA 02113

It’s time to party as Koliba’s amazing sounds fill City Hall Plaza. Bringing together musicians from two continents, Koliba blends traditional and modern styles including West African rhythms, Hi Life, Reggae, Ska, Zouk, and more.

Improv Asylum’s audience-interactive and lightning-fast improv that you’ve loved for years is now available for the whole family! This New Year’s Eve, come by Improv Asylum in Boston’s North End for the Made-Up Matinee - a show designed for kids between the ages of 5-14 that parents will be able to get down with as well! Every show is different because it’s based on your family’s suggestions. Come by for some complimentary hot chocolate and family-friendly comedy to send off 2023 with a bang!

No tickets or purchase are required for entry. All availability is on a first come, first served basis.

Improv Asylum address:
216 Hanover Street
Boston, MA 02113

LIZJE is a Colombian/American Artist, songwriter, and producer known for her incredible versatility and distinctive style. With a captivating blend of Latin Jazz and pop music, she seamlessly combines the rhythms of her Colombian heritage with contemporary sounds, resulting in a truly soulful and captivating musical experience. From an early age, Lizje has been passionately immersed in the world of music, honing her skills as a songwriter and performer. Drawing inspiration from her diverse cultural background, she has crafted a unique and innovative sound that sets her apart in the industry.
As a local artist, Lizje has been making waves with her exceptional talent, captivating audiences with her magnetic stage presence and the emotive power of her voice. Currently, she has performed throughout the east coast bringing her voice to venues such as: The Hatch Shell with the Landmark Orchestra, Crystal Ballroom theater, Paramount theater, Cafe 939 and the TD garden singing the National Anthem. She has not only showcased her talent on international stages in Japan, Switzerland, and Colombia's renowned Jazz al parque, but takes her profound bond with her Colombian heritage and radiates it through her music. Her ability to infuse Latin culture with a vibrant and genuine essence captivates listeners worldwide, leaving an indelible impact.
In addition to her success as an artist, Lizje recently released her singles "Todavia" and "Mas de Paz," both of which have garnered significant praise and attention. These releases showcase her ability to craft infectious melodies, soulful lyrics, and captivating arrangements that leave a lasting impact.
Furthermore, Lizje has taken her passion for music beyond the stage by becoming an esteemed educator at Berklee College of Music in Boston. With her wealth of knowledge and expertise, she is committed to nurturing the next generation of aspiring musicians, imparting her invaluable insights and inspiring them to pursue their own artistic journeys.
LIZJE's artistic prowess, combined with her dedication to musical education, has solidified her as a unique latin representation in the music industry. With each new release and performance, she continues to captivate and inspire audiences, leaving an indelible mark on the world of Latin pop music.

Social Media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LIZJEMUSIC/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lizjesmusic/Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1SOlVHCi1orW7dbe21pPCY?si=JdJUeEDfQ52YOdOt70eVLwYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@LIZJE

Experience a spectacular figure skating show produced by The Skating Club of Boston. The outdoor show offer the public a chance to see national and international competitive figure skaters, soloists, groups, wee skaters, Team Excel Synchronized Skating and Theater On Ice of Boston teams in the center of the historic and iconic Boston Common Frog Pond.

• We’re thrilled to welcome back our First Night Parade that will take colorful and celebratory groups from City Hall Plaza to Boston Common at 6:00 PM. Once the performers pass by, the public is invited to walk along to the Boston Common, where fireworks will begin at 7:00 PM.
• Participating Groups include the Boston Cup, Boston Windjammers, Greater Boston Chinese Cultural Association (GBCCA), Hot Tamales Brass Band, Jamaica Plain Honk Band, Miss Massachusetts, New Liberty Firetruck, New Magnolia Jazz Band, The Puppeteers’ Cooperative, Red Cross Emergency Response Vehicles, and William Diamon Fife and Drum

Hailing from just north of Boston, Maddi Ryan is an up and coming singer/songwriter who will steal your heart. Her passion for singing and performing began when she was just a little girl. Her first stage was on top of her coffee table where she’d sing for anyone in her family who would listen. Since then, Ryan and her band have performed all around the country at venues big and small and have had the opportunity to open for acts such as Ray Fulcher, Morgan Myles, and The Cadillac Three.Her performances have earned Ryan ‘Country Act of the Year’ nominations at the 2019, 2021, and 2023 New England Music Awards.The Deli magazine highlights her, “clear ability to engage her most honest emotions, and deliver them cordially through her vocals, full of grace.” Ryan recently released her debut EP ‘Growing Pains’ on October 14th!

Enjoy a spectacular Fireworks display over the Boston Common, brought to you by The Mugar Foundation and The City of Boston.

The best of Boston’s brass and percussion artists join organist Mitchell Crawford in a supersonic program of popular classics and holiday favorites. Featuring fun and engaging programming for the whole family, this concert includes a seasonal sing of “Auld Lang Syne” and “Winter Wonderland”. Experience Old South’s incredible E. M. Skinner organ, with over 7,000 room-shaking pipes! Free and open to the public. Come in person, or click here to watch the live stream.

Inspired by classic rock bands such as Phish and Grateful Dead, Sons of Levin offers their sound as an homage to previous great rock and roll acts while delivering their own take on the jam/rock scene.

Hailing from Massachusetts LaQuandra is a passionate singer and songwriter whose
musical journey began at the age of 11. LaQuandra's music serves as a diary of her life
experiences. Her strong, emotive voice has drawn comparisons to powerhouse artists
like Jennifer Hudson, Beyoncé, and a touch of Patti Labelle. She has opened up for
many well known celebrity artist around the United States. Her repertoire spans genres,
and her songs resonate with audiences of all ages. Her goal is to inspire people across
the world and sing the music that speaks to her soul.

Guess Method is a dance inducing Indie-Funk powerhouse hailing from the Boston area. Originating from the coastal communities of southern Rhode Island, this group has grown over the past few years, accumulating new members, a horn section, and touring throughout the East Coast.

Back to First Night for another action packed 20-minute set, Nancia brings the beats of Boston to City Hall Plaza for 2024. One of Boston’s best R&B singers, she’s performed at venues throughout New England and beyond, wowing audiences with her voice, energy, dance, and authenticity.

Both former collegiate athletes and Massachusetts natives, new country duo, Ayla Brown & Rob Bellamy found each other 1,000 miles away in Nashville while writing songs together. They clicked together musically and personally and began recording demos, uploading videos on Facebook and YouTube of their songs, and booking shows together along the East coast. They married each other in 2021 and a year later welcomed a baby in 2022. Meet the artists!
Having multiple talents and interests hasn’t deterred Ayla Brown from achieving many significant hallmarks in her young career. She’s released 5 studio albums, has performed on the Grand Ole Opry stage twice, placed 13 th on Season 5 of American Idol, performed overseas for the troops in 13 different countries, sang live on national television including on ESPN, FOX & Friends, CNN, and CBS, and was a full scholarship basketball player for Boston College. She has opened up for artists like Lynyrd Skynyrd, Eric Church, Jason Aldean, Josh Turner, Charlie Daniels, Sara Evans, Phil Vassar, and more and now she is a full-time ratio host on Country 102.5 WKLB in Boston, MA on “Country Mornings with Jonathan Ayla” from 6:00-10:00am.

Rob Bellamy recorded and released an EP called “Long Freight Train” in 2016 and a single called “Walk it with Me” in 2020, and since the release he has been touring and opening up for country music artists such as Carly Pearce, Mark Wills, Dylan Scott and Russell Dickerson. Recently, he was Country 102.5’s “Catch of the Week,” where weekly they highlight an emerging country artist. Rob played hockey for four years at the University of Maine, and in 2004 he was drafted by the Philadelphia Flyers in the 3rd round, and played 7 years of semi-professional hockey in Pennsylvania, New York, South Carolina, and England.

Ayla Brown & Rob Bellamy still perform as solo artists, but they most recently recorded their first duo project titled, “Make it Mean Something” that was released in February of 2019. It’s a 6-song EP recorded in Portland, OR and all of the songs were co-written by the duo. You can find their information the artists at www.AylaBrown.com and www.RobBellamy.com

The First Night Countdown will bring Boston closer to 2023 with live performances, and a laser show display high above City Hall Plaza. Music will continue until 12:30 a.m. 

Sammy Adams is a platinum selling rapper, singer, and songwriter. Adams started recording songs on his Macbook in 2008 from his college dormitory room. Over the course of the next two years, he recorded a large amount of material that would be used on his later releases. He was always told it was a “pipe dream” and practically impossible in this day and age without signing a major deal. In early 2009, he emerged into the music industry with his release of "I Hate College (Remix)", a remix of Asher Roth's "ILove College", on YouTube which went viral. He was asked across the country to open for Drake, Kid Cudi, Big Sean, Wiz Khalifa, Snoop Dogg, Mike Posner, Currensy, and Tiesto (to name a few). He released his first ever EP, Boston's Boy, on March 4, 2010, which debuted at number one on the iTunes hip-hop chart within hours of dropping. His song "Driving Me Crazy" which sampled Annie Lennox’s hit “Walking onBroken Glass” hit #8 on iTunes hip-hop singles chart. The EP managed to reach #73 on The Billboard 200without marketing, a label, or any push.In the end of June 2010, Adams travelled to London, UK to finish his first mixtape, Party Records. It was the first of its kind, a musical mash up of his favorite electronic sampled beats from producers like Deadmau5 ("Some Chordz") and Yolanda Be Cool ("No Speak Americano"), as well as many others.After dropping out of school to chase his dream, he sold out two full tours after declining record deal’s from virtually every major label in the United States.

On August 8th, 2011, Adams performed at Lollapalooza in Chicago,and it solidified his place in the music industry. Shortly after that Adams signed a substantial record deal with Sony RCA in New York City, began dropping singles with Mike Posner, Enrique Iglesias, and made his TV debut on Conan with Conan O'Brien. As if life couldn’t get any more surreal, Adams penned a song entitled “All Night Longer” in 2012 which took his touring to the next level. The Gary Glitter sampled song (which currently has amassed 82 millionstreams on Spotify alone) quickly became his most successful song of all time. As soon as the song started at the venues he was playing, chaos ensued (in a good way). On November 12th, 2012,Adam’s ended his tour at Roseland, NYCscoveted 5,600-personvenue, and shortly after made the move to Los Angeles. Being the east coast boy that he is after 2 years moved back east and settled back in Manhattan, NY. In 2015 Sammy took a break from touring and focused on his writing and production skills. In 2017, Sammy embarked on the “Senioritis Tour” which hit over 42 colleges across the United States. Although his focuswas to get back in the studio and pump out another album Adam’s got an offer he couldn’t refuse and jumped on “The Vans Warped Tour” for the 49-datemusic festival as one of the only rappers.

In 2018 Adam’s survived a life-threateningaccident which left him with a broken neck and two brain hemorrhages, putting his music career on hold. Miraculously he rehabbed with full range of motion beating the 1 in 100 odds that he’d ever walk again. He is currently wrapping up new music and is back in the studio writing for other artists as well.