First Night Akron

If you're looking for an alternative to spending New Year's Eve in a bar or restaurant, consider the art and music celebration in Akron tonight. First Night Akron is one of many such events all over the country. The festivities start at 5pm and continue through midnight.

Twenty-one venues in downtown Akron, both indoor and outside, are participating as well as 80 artists, musicians, theater troupes, and other artists. In addition, there are special food items for sale and you can take advantage of the last day to skate at the Lock 3 rink. There'll be a kid's countdown at 830pm, followed by fireworks as well as the countdown to midnight, followed by another round of fireworks.

Admission to the night's activities is $10 per person; children under 10 are free. Parking is free in most of the city and county parking lots. First Night Akron is a family-friendly, alcohol-free event.

^{(Photo courtesy of the Akron CVB)}