First Night was founded in Boston in 1976 by civic minded artists as a meaningful alternative to traditional New Year's revelry. First Night was the finale to the city's Bicentennial events and the start of a new tradition. The founders' objectives were to recapture the symbolic significance of the passage from the old year to the new to unite the community through a shared cultural celebration which would deepen and broaden the public's appreciation of the visual performing arts.
First Night International is the umbrella organization, which fosters the concept and assists all interested communities in establishing the celebration. It provides education through an annual conference, technical assistance and consultations. In addition, it offers on-going services to strengthen each existing First Night city.
In 1999 Mayor Joseph DeStefano decided that the City of Middletown should pursue a New Year's Eve celebration in honor of the new millennium. John Degnan, executive Director of the B.I.D., was asked to spearhead the project. Degnan researched the First Night International Organization and felt their mission and concept would be appropriate for the City of Middletown. Following the city's application to the organization, Middletown became one of over 225 members of First Night International.
Presently there are over 225 First Night celebrations worldwide: over 200 in the United States, 18 in Canada, Greenwich, London and Hastings, New Zealand. Of the 15+ First Nights in New York State, the nearest celebrations to Middletown are Albany and Nyack.
First Night not only marks our entrance into the new millennium, it supports our ongoing goal to make the downtown area of Middletown an attraction for people of all ages to enjoy. First Night is a fun, safe, culturally enriching way for families to celebrate the passage into the new year, with quality family entertainment in an alcohol-free environment. First Night has now become a Middletown tradition. This year, radio and television personality John Moultrie will Emcee First Night in Middletown NY.
First Night 2000 was a huge success in Middletown. The event attracted more than 3,000 people. This year's First Night celebration will continue the tradition and bring together the community in ushering in another New Year!
