About First Night Saratoga

 First Night Signature Sponsor

The First Night Story

First Night came into existence in Boston in 1976 to bring the neighboring communities of the city together in a joint celebration. While providing the public with an alternative way of ushering in the New year, the commitment of a group of private citizens to these goals marked the beginning of a new tradition: The First Night Celebration. Since 1980 this concept has inspired many communities from Cape Cod to Honolulu to start their own First Night Celebrations.

From the beginning, First Night's mission has been to broaden and deepen the public's appreciation of the visual and performing arts through an innovative, diverse and high quality New Year's Eve program, which offers the community a shared cultural experience that is accessible and affordable to all.

First Night celebrations draw singles, couples, and families of all ages and ethnic backgrounds from the local community as well as the surrounding counties and states. First Night has proven to be an enormous economic impact on the communities and its businesses.

The YMCA of Saratoga along with its Board of Directors and Board of Trustees are proud to support this family-oriented, nonalcoholic celebration of the arts. In keeping with the mission of the YMCA, First Night Saratoga is a New Year's Eve festivity that celebrates families, community and kids.

First Night Saratoga Facts

What: A family-oriented New Year’s Eve celebration of the arts. First Night Saratoga is made possible by the
volunteers, sponsors, city departments, property owners, and media organizations who support First Night Saratoga.

When: Wednesday, December 31, 2008 from 5:00 pm to Midnight.

Where: Downtown Saratoga Springs! Over 40 buildings, churches, and storefronts become stages for
musicians, actors, dancers, and artists.

Who: Children and adults alike. The evening offers something for everyone!

Why: Celebrate the arts, the New Year, and the spirit of Saratoga Springs. This is a grand celebration hosted by the YMCA of Saratoga Springs.

Button Up! Purchase a button online, from one of our many button outlets during December, or at the event. This button is your ticket to all First Night performances and activities! Please wear your button in a visible place!

Plan Ahead! Seating at venues is on a first come, first seated basis. It helps to have a game plan. Look over the schedule, decide what you want to see, and prepare your First Night itinerary.

Be Flexible! Some performances may reach capacity, and we must limit attendance to the stated occupancy. If you cannot immediately be seated in a selected venue, wait a few minutes, move on to your next choice, or enjoy some of the streetside performers. There is plenty of entertainment for everyone!!!

Some capacity crowds may be asked to vacate the venue following a performance prior to the next set. To fairly accommodate all who wish to attend performances, please comply with this request if necessary.

Be Considerate! Please show your respect for performers by entering and exiting venues quietly.

Dress Comfortably! Wear your walking shoes and bundle up. Plan to spend time both inside and outside. First Night Saratoga will take place, come rain, shine, or snowflakes. Please wear your button in a visible place!

Spread the Word! Buy buttons for your friends and family to show your support of the arts. First Night’s success depends on the support of the community!

First Night Saratoga Survey Quotes

Quotes from Individuals:

"The children's luminaries were fabulous. A great night. Thanks for all the work and organization."

"The road race was fun. The volunteers were very supportive of the runners."

"Thank you for making First Night the highlight of my holidays."

Quotes from Performers/Artists:

"Congratulations on one of the finest, if not the best, First Nights in the area!

"I'd love to be considered for First Night Saratoga Springs. It would be really fun to bring in the millennium in Saratoga Springs!"

"Well organized and done in a very professional manner."

Quotes from Volunteers:

"Count me in as a permanent Saratoga First Night volunteer! Everyone had embraced me as family."

"If feels so good to be able to help out in the community."

"It was a nice experience, and I am looking forward to next year!