Studio 52 is a community artist space located in the heart of Allston, and is proud to support the Boston music scene and local artist community.
As is usually the case around Boston, there’s no shortage of party options on New Year’s Eve. But for those looking to escape the usual rock clubs and live music venues, the 42nd annual First Night has pulled together another worthy lineup of homegrown talent. And since it’s a free event, there’s no bloated cover charge.
Brookline native and soul singer Eli “Paperboy” Reed returns to town to headline First Night 2018 festivities, performing live on Copley Square at 11 p.m. before joining iHeartRadio and NBC Boston for the annual countdown to midnight. Before Reed hits the stage, hip-hop sparkplug Dutch ReBelle (8:15 p.m.) and Boston Music Awards New Artist of the Year Carissa Johnson (9 p.m.) give Copley one of the finer local music showcases around.
In addition to the trio of artists playing on Copley Square, other performers filling various indoor and outdoor locations around Back Bay include Katrina Kincade, PK & the Mighty 7, Girls Night Out, Boston Opera Guy, DD Martin & Code 51, Lance Martin Band, Improv Boston, and more.
“First Night in Boston is a celebration that brings thousands of residents and visitors to our city to ring in the New Year, something we always look forward to,” says Mayor Martin J. Walsh in a statement. “Not only do these festivities bring residents from all across the city and region together, it gives us a unique opportunity to reflect upon and celebrate this past year side by side while looking forward to a great 2018.”
This year’s First Night also includes fireworks on the Boston Common, a figure skating ice show on the Frog Pond, and a scavenger hunt via the GooseChase mobile app. Get all that information, plus extended schedules and other details on all First Night happenings here.
For those who’d rather not venture out in the cold, First Night will also be televised on NBC Boston. Featured Eli Reed photo by Ray Lego.