Just four days from now, First Night Boston will be taking place at City Hall Plaza for the very first time. However, officials on Wednesday outlined some planning and security measures to address before the big celebration.
Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox said there will be a strong police presence both at City Hall Plaza and throughout all Boston neighborhoods.
Fire Marshal Patrick Ellis added that his department will also have extra staff on-hand to make sure private venues aren't exceeding capacity. He's also reminding everyone that both using and selling fireworks is illegal.
Officials urged people not to drink alcohol or consume marijuana in public.
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The strong police presence comes as the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security warn of possible threats related to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. They said lone actor violence targeting large gatherings is possible, especially during holiday events like these.
However, Cox emphasized that there are no known threats to Boston at this time.
Mayor Michelle Wu is encouraging everyone to use public transit rather than drive into the city for the festivities.
"We are excited to ring in the new year full of joy and community and health and peace and that starts with keeping ourselves and each other safe on First Night," said Wu. "With all the programming we have scheduled downtown, we encourage everyone to use transit rather than driving."
The MBTA is offering free services starting at 8 p.m. on New Year's Eve.
"In Boston, we're still celebrating [the] holiday season and we're very excited to ring in the new year with everyone," said Wu.
All the family-friendly festivities begin at noon on Dec. 31 and will run until 12:30 a.m. on Jan. 1, right after the city rings in 2024.
Platinum-selling hip-hop artist Sammy Adams will headline this year's New Year's Eve festivities. More than 200,000 people are expected to visit the free event throughout the day and into the night.
This year, First Night moved to a new home for its hub at the newly updated City Hall Plaza.
For a complete schedule of performances, click here.
