November 15, 2023 (Old Town Alexandria, VA) - First Night Alexandria, known as the largest family-friendly and affordable New Year's Eve Festival of Music and More event in the region, returns with its day into night of celebration showcasing performing arts throughout Old Town in the City of Alexandria. The annual event (in its 29th year) is set to take place on Sunday, December 31, and will feature a variety of activities, activations, dance parties, live music and more. The festivities kick off at 2:00PM and conclude at midnight as thousands welcome in the New Year.

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A tradition that started in 1994, First Night Alexandria has become a staple in the region to bring in the New Year as an affordable event filled with a lineup of entertainment and activities. Proceeds from the event supports Alexandria’s middle and high school students’ activities with a musical background in choir, orchestra, and band.

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New this Year

 

Twilight Fireworks - This year’s celebration will feature a twilight fireworks display at 6 p.m. on Alexandria’s waterfront geared to families who want to enjoy the show with their kids and loved ones. First Night Alexandria will also still host an abbreviated encore display of the New Year’s fireworks at midnight on the waterfront.

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Fun Hunt - Add adventure, exploration, and education to the last day of the year!  After 5 years, the Fun Hunt returns with new ways to enjoy an afternoon in Old Town Alexandria.  Ticketed guests have the opportunity to turn a day of Fun and entertainment into potential prize winnings. The adventure concludes at the Block Party at Market Square just prior to the Twilight Fireworks.

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Daytime Block Party – Join us at Market Square from 4 – 6PM for a time of music, a “Cool Happy New Year” demonstration and special fun just prior to the new Twilight fireworks display. 

 

In the past years, Alexandria has been recognized for its diversity and noted as an intergenerational destination where people of all ages and ethnicities come together creating fun memories within a safe environment. To continue inclusivity in Alexandria, First Night Alexandria’s mission is not only to bring people together in a celebratory event, but also to raise cultural awareness and showcase diverse artists as they expand their audience. 

 

Special thanks to the Presenting sponsors: City of Alexandria, Dominion Energy, and Virginia Paving Company.  Additionally, it takes the support of a community of small businesses, restaurant partners, and committed volunteers to create the magic of First Night Alexandria. Sponsorship and volunteer opportunities are still available. First Night Alexandria’s Executive Director, Marilyn Patterson of Joyous Events LLC will organize a seamless event in partnership with a number of venues, restaurants, media and community partners, and volunteers to make the event a joyous occasion.

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Full schedule of events will be announced soon. First Night Alexandria ticket sales will be available online starting Friday, November 17, 2023.

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For more information visit www.firstnightalexandria.org

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