First Night St. Petersburg, the city’s biggest and longest-running New Year’s Eve celebration, is officially back for 2023. The annual event is a massive celebration of the arts, taking place in North Straub Park from 4-8 pm, ending just as the city fireworks get ready to light up the night sky and welcome in the New Year.

The family-friendly event is free and open to all, thanks to sponsors Hines and the Tampa Bay Rays. Festivities will showcase a beautiful and colorful North Straub Park, including music, art, interactive displays, theatre, dance and much more. Open to guests of all ages, more activities are highlighted by music, sing-alongs with Mr. Brad, dance performances, giant lit-up sculptures, bubble stomp, improv theatre, and even interactive arts and crafts.

The idea of First Night actually got its start in Boston in 1976 as a way for the community to gather together and celebrate art. In the years since, it has spread all over the country, reaching more than 260 cities by the year 2000, and even more in the years since. Of course, many First Night celebrations were ultimately canceled as a result of the covid pandemic and its associated economic effects. In fact, First Night St. Pete had to take 2022 off, as a result.

This year, First Night St. Pete is back bigger and stronger than ever. It’s the biggest celebration of its kind in the state of Florida, a must-attend event for art lovers of all ages. Learn more at firstnightstpete.com.