First Night Chatham
First Night Chatham offers a vibrant, alcohol-free, town-wide celebration of the arts on New Year's Eve. With over 70 performances and activities, the event features a diverse array of live music, theater, interactive games, and family-friendly fun. Highlights include a spectacular fireworks display, a lively Noise Parade, and a special Town Photo at the Chatham Lighthouse. Explore various venues for everything from bluegrass and jazz to magic shows and craft studios, ensuring a memorable start to the new year for all.
What to Expect
Alcohol-free, town-wide arts celebration with over 70 performances.
Event Details
Duration
Noon to 10:00 PM
Ages
All ages (children 2 and under free)
Neighborhood
Chatham
Timed Entry
No
Featured Performers
- All Worn Out Jug Band
- Atwater-Donnelly
- Tony Bennett Duets
- Natalia Bonfini
- Brewster Bayside Skippers
- Brown Dog Band
- Bubble Wrap Stomp
- Sarah Burrill Band
- +68 more
Organizer
First Night Chatham Committee
Food & Drink
Food and non-alcoholic beverages are sold by a variety of vendors, some indoors and some outdoors. Alcohol is not permitted.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, couples, and individuals seeking a festive new year's eve celebration.
Vibe
Festive, community-oriented, artistic, celebratory
Energy Level
Moderate to high
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate (many indoor options available)
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $30 – Get tickets
- Parking: Public parking is available at Monomoy Regional Middle School (Crowell Road), Town Parking Lot (Main Street, behind the Orpheum Theater), Elementary School (Depot Road), Oyster Pond Parking Lot (Stage Harbor Rd.), and Eldredge Garage Parking Lot (365 Main St.).
- Accessibility: All venue sites are normally accessible.
- Pets: Service animals likely permitted, but general pet policy not explicitly stated. Event is family-friendly.
Tips & Advice
- Purchase your buttons in advance, as they have sold out in previous years. Check the website for merchant locations or buy online for 'Will Call' pickup.
- Arrive early for popular performances, as seating is first-come, first-served and lines can form well before showtimes.
- Utilize the free shuttle bus service to navigate between venues, especially those not located on Main Street, to avoid parking hassles.
- Many outdoor activities are button-free, offering a great way to enjoy the festive atmosphere without a ticket. Check the 'Button-Free' page for details.
- Dress in layers and wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be moving between various indoor and outdoor locations throughout the day and evening.
Special Events & Promotions
- Town Photo at Chatham Lighthouse at Noon
- Noise Parade culminating in Fireworks
- Over 70 performances and activities
- Button-free activities available
- Free shuttle bus service
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a button required to attend First Night Chatham?
A button is required for most indoor entertainment and activities. However, many outdoor activities are button-free, and you can enjoy the town's ambiance and food vendors without one.
Where can I buy buttons?
Buttons are available at First Night Chatham Headquarters, several local merchants in Chatham and nearby towns, and online until a specified date. Check the 'Buy Buttons' page for locations and details.
How much do buttons cost?
Adult buttons are $30 (ages 17+), and children's buttons are $5 (ages 3-16). Children aged 2 and under are free. All sales are final.
When is the latest I can buy buttons?
Online 'Ship to Home' orders end around December 16th. All subsequent online orders are 'Will Call'. Merchant sales stop around December 29-30, after which buttons are only sold at Headquarters.
Where can I find food?
A variety of food vendors will be available both indoors and outdoors. A list of vendors and open restaurants can be found on the 'Food Vendors' and 'Restaurants' pages of the website.
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Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.