Boston is a focal point of United States history since the Puritans arrived in the 1600s. It is awash in a rich past that includes the American Revolution. Learn about this history and more on the Freedom Trail, then head to the landmark Union Oyster House, an eatery that has been serving oysters for almost 200 years! Aside from history, this city offers superior nightlife, with scenic dinner cruises and other attractions to enjoy after dark. No wonder it’s a top spot to celebrate New Year’s Eve. If you’re ready to ring in the New Year in one of the nation’s oldest cities, scroll down to see the best events and activities for New Year’s Eve in Boston, Massachusetts.
Winter in Boston:
January is the coldest month in Boston with an average low of 23°F (-5°C), according to the official website of Boston. December typically has an average low of 29°F (1.6°C). So, make sure to bundle up when you visit.
Despite the chilly weather, winter is a great time to visit Boston as the city has lots to offer in the season. Explore stunning igloos, have fun on outdoor skating rinks, and attend art and culture events. Check out the ultimate winter bucket list to make the most of your visit to Boston!
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New Year's Eve celebrations in Boston
About First Night
The festivities in Boston on New Year’s Eve, or as they call it - First Night - date back to 1976. According to the First Night’s official website, First Night was imagined by Clara Wainwright, an artist and visionary. Today, it’s one of the world’s most stunning New Year’s Eve celebrations. The event beckons artists and performers to showcase their skills and offer performances.
Traditions
- First Night Boston Parade is an annual celebration that takes place on First Night. It starts from City Hall Plaza and ends at Boston Common. Some of the distinguished participants of the parade include Miss Massachusetts, Greater Boston Chinese Cultural Association (GBCCA), New Magnolia Jazz Band, and The Boston Cup.
- This has always been an alcohol-free celebration, so it's suitable for all kinds of visitors.
- When the clock strikes 12, the sky lights up in gorgeous fireworks.
Tips for tourists on celebrating New Year's Eve in Boston
- Check the official website of First Night for updates about the event schedule before visiting.
- Take the MBTA to travel to and from First Night Boston for a hassle-free experience.
Events and activities to celebrate New Year's Eve in Boston
1. Celebrate First Night Boston with your family
First Night Boston, established in the 1970s, is an annual New Year’s Eve ritual in Boston. This event offers first-rate artistic performances that celebrate the holiday season, so I’d suggest art and culture enthusiasts try this out.
Families and friends can participate in a variety of activities. They can also watch concerts and check out ice sculptures. Fireworks start in the evening, and you will end the year by counting down to the new one.
First Night Boston
Website: First Night Boston
Dates: For updated dates and hours, please visit official website
2. Party all night at New Year's Eve at Down Boston
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Our happy place ... Don't worry, we're working on getting you back here as soon as we can.
Posted by Down Boston on Friday, July 24, 2020
Choose New Year’s Eve at Down Boston and be ready for an awesome night out. A premier venue for New Year’s Eve revelry, this sleek nightclub is situated in a basement yet still offers a nice-sized dance floor surrounded by plush booth seating and vibrant neon LED lighting.
A selection of bottle service packages are offered for the New Year’s Eve event, and you can expect fun party favors and champagne toasts at midnight.
New Year's Eve at Down Boston
Address: 184 High Street Boston, MA 02110
Website: New Year’s Eve at Down Boston
Dates: For updated dates and hours, please visit official website
Boston Tour Guide
Naim Benmayor
As a Boston tour guide, I have the added experience of being a world traveler. For many years, I frequently visited Europe, Asia, and Latin America on business. During this time, I also organized tours of the USA, Europe and Asia for my business clients. I now bring this passion, excitement and expertise to the Boston area.By exploring the globe, I was exposed to various cultures, and this uniq... Read more
3. Go on a romantic trip with the Boston Odyssey Dinner Cruise
Welcome the new year in a unique way – aboard Boston Odyssey Dinner Cruise. Catch glimpses of the Boston Harbor waterfront, Castle Island, Charlestown Naval Yard, and more on this spectacular three-hour tour.
If you’re a foodie like me, you’d love to savor the delicious three-course dinner in an inviting cabaret-inspired seating arrangement. Live music will be playing, so you can dance away the evening with the Boston skyline as a backdrop.
Boston Odyssey Dinner Cruise
Address: 60 Rowes Wharf, Boston, MA 02210, United States
Book Tours : City Cruises Boston Premier Dinner Cruise on Odyssey
4. Dance the night away at New Year's Eve at Howl at the Moon Boston
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Usher the new year in style when you attend New Year’s Eve at Howl at the Moon Boston event. Two fun-filled packages are offered, and both include party favors and a boisterous champagne toast when the clock strikes midnight.
For tasty eats, you can choose the Big Shot package to sample the build-your-own slider bar, or go for the Supernova package and treat yourself to the slider bar and the delectable hors d’oeuvres buffet.
New Year's Eve at Howl at the Moon Boston
Address: Howl at the Moon Boston 184 High Street Boston, MA 02110
Website: New Year’s Eve at Howl at the Moon Boston!
Dates: For updated dates and hours, please visit official website
5. Groove with friends at the Royale New Years Eve Party
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Royale on Thursday, January 1, 2015
Join fellow partygoers at Royale, the city’s leading nightclub, for an end-of-the-year extravaganza. Royale will be transformed into a lavish destination of palatial bliss. The venue will feature numerous huge flat screens so revelers can watch all the New Year’s Eve action from Times Square when the ball drops.
The professional DJ spins a variety of music, from hip hop to the top hits, so I’d recommend this to anyone who loves to groove all night long – or at least until 2 am. Plenty of bars are present, too.
Royale New Years Eve Party
Address: 279 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116, United States
Website: Royale New Years Eve Party
Dates: For updated dates and hours, please visit official website
6. Take the magical Boston Waterfront Ice Sculpture Stroll
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Boston Waterfront Ice Sculpture is a novel way to spend New Year’s Eve. Walk Boston’s waterfront and view a whimsical display of ice sculptures in this self-guided tour. I’d suggest carrying your camera to capture some stunning shots.
An exciting time for the entire family, this popular annual event boasts over 12 outdoor sites in 4 of Boston’s lovely waterfront neighborhoods, such as East Boston, North End – Boston’s Little Italy, bustling Downtown, and the eclectic Seaport.
Boston Waterfront Ice Sculpture
Website: Boston Waterfront Ice Sculpture
Dates: For updated dates and hours, please visit official website
7. Enjoy drinks and dancing on the Speakeasy New Year's Eve Cruise
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Ever wondered what it was like to party during the Roaring 20s? The Speakeasy New Year’s Eve Cruise offers the opportunity to experience that aboard a fantastic riverboat. This three-hour cruise features entertaining DJs spinning music that is sure to keep the party going non-stop.
Free festive party favors are provided for every guest, and there’s a fully staffed cash bar, so you can expect the alcohol to flow freely.
Speakeasy New Year's Eve Cruise
Address: Music City Queen Boston Riverboat 60 Rowes Wharf, Boston, MA 02210
Website: Speakeasy New Year’s Eve Cruise
Dates: For updated dates and hours, please visit this website
8. Attend the Resolution Ball New Year's Eve, Boston's best event at Westin Copley
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Boasting the biggest and longest-running New Year’s Eve party in the city’s history, Resolution Ball is the grandaddy of Boston’s end-of-year celebrations. It is set in the notable Westin Hotel Grand Ballroom, one of the poshest venues in Boston.
The cash bar is stocked with everything, from sudsy beer to sparkling champagne. Arrive early to enjoy an Italian feast. If you’re in the mood to party late at night, hit the dance floor while an energetic DJ pumps out the tunes. Don’t forget to wear your best clothes.
Resolution Ball New Year's Eve
Address: Westin Hotel Copley Place, 10 Huntington Avenue Boston, MA 02116
Website: Resolution Ball New Year’s Eve
Dates: For updated dates and hours, please visit official website
9. Join the silent auction at Back Bay Ball
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Boasting all sorts of activities, from a delicious three-course meal to a silent auction, I think Back Bay Ball is one of the most exciting New Year’s Eve celebrations in the city. Revelers can choose from three thrilling ticket choices.
Get the chance to don your favorite party dress or sleek suit for this fabulous event that features a DJ providing a wide range of music. A nifty silent auction sets this celebration apart, offering the chance to bid on incredible prizes.
Back Bay Ball
Address: Westin Boston Copley Place, 10 Huntington Ave Boston, MA 02116
Website: Back Bay Ball
Dates: For updated dates and hours, please visit official website
Welcome the new year in Boston
With a collection of venues eager to host phenomenal party action, Boston is the go-to place to ring in the New Year, whether you’re visiting alone or with loved ones. Opt for one of these splendid events for a memorable end-of-the-year celebration.
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