The best Boston New Year’s Eve events to ring in 2025

As the year comes to a close, First Night Boston brings together as many as 1 million people to ring in 2024 with exciting performances and fun for the whole family. The free festivities kick off at City Hall Plaza at noon on New Year’s Eve day and continue around Copley Square and Back Bay until the clock strikes midnight and beyond. Enjoy cultural and musical performances in various indoor venues, fantastic ice sculptures throughout the city, light displays, the People’s Procession at 6pm and Family Fireworks at 7pm over the Boston Common. Moments before midnight, join in on the signature Countdown Copley Square pyrotechnics and light show. For more details, check out the full itinerary.

As the year comes to a close, it's time to raise our glasses and reflect on not only 2024, but some of Boston’s incredible culinary experiences. Whether you choose an indulgent prix fixe menu or just pop in for a few special dishes and a midnight champagne toast, the city’s finest restaurants are ready to host you. Word to the wise: book a table now before they’re all scooped up.

Take to the city streets once the sun goes down and enjoy its festive best as the season winds down. Everywhere you look is holiday splendor in lights—from the blue and white twinkles of the 260-foot Columbus Park Trellis to the lights on the special Boston Common Holiday Tree gifted to the city by Nova Scotia. These elaborate displays of glimmering lights set against a dark winter sky are bound to lift your spirits while you welcome the new year. 

From creative cocktail bars to neighborhood dives to classy wine bars, there’s something for every kind of celebration in Boston. Whether you're looking for the dirtiest of martinis, a cold pint of local lager, a creative cocktail, or a glass of organic wine, there's a place for you. Stay casual at your corner local or dress to the nines at a trendy lounge, but be sure to check in advance to find out if there’s a cover charge or tickets required for entrance on New Year’s Eve.

Having an out-of-town adventure can be a great reset to begin 2025.

Whether you stay the night or just pop in for the party, there are several hotels in the Boston area that are hosting exciting NYE celebrations.