First Night 2013

First Night’s origins trace back to mid-70’s Boston, where community-minded artists created a new kind of New Year’s party. Now, with upwards of 75 official “First Night” cities across the USA, the well-established First Night Saranac Lake shines in Northern New York as one of the best. In fact, in 2011, the Saranac Lake First Night button won the award for best event button in the USA. That’s quite an honor for a small town competing against the talents in cities like Boston, Raleigh, Spokane, Pittsburgh and many more!

 If you’re a first time  First Night-er this year, here are some tips for enjoying the event:

THE BUTTON'S THE KEY

The unique button for 2013 can be purchased for just $12 in advance at the Saranac Lake Chamber of Commerce on Riverside Drive and many other locations in Saranac Lake, and also at the Visitors Bureau office on Main Street in Lake Placid.  If you procrastinate and wait til the day of the event, the price increases to $15. So — don’t procrastinate! The button gives you admission to all of the evening’s events. You will be able to purchase the button at each venue as well on the night of the event. Wear your button on your outer clothing. If you’re bringing your kids, they’re free if they’re 12 and under. They’ll receive their own special button at the venues.  

VENUES ABOUND...

*There are twelve venues with performances throughout New Year’s Eve, beginning at 6 pm. Seating at the venues varies greatly, from 60 to about 600. Naturally, arriving early at the smaller venues will increase your ability to find a seat.  Download and print this PDF of the schedule and map and carry it with you so you don’t miss something you really want to see!

STAY WARM - BUT NOT TOO WARM!

*Dress in layers as it is historically quite cold on New Year’s Eve in the Adirondacks. Venues may be quite warm with all those bodies in attendance, so make sure you don’t get overheated before going back out in the cold.

 *At 5:45 on New Year’s Eve, meet at the front of the Harrietstown Hall to enjoy the opening festivities. Join the mayor of Saranac Lake when he declares the event’s kick-off. The new 2014 3’ x 15’ First Night banners will also be unfurled down the front of the Town Hall at this time. This year will mark the 6th year of the First Night Celebration in Saranac Lake. Each year, six area organizations or individuals create these festive and colorful banners to decorate the Town Hall. 

Bundle up and don’t miss the countdown to midnight at Riverside Park and watch the ball drop and fireworks over Lake Flower at the stroke of midnight! 

It’s a magical night in Saranac Lake and you will definitely want to be part of this alcohol-free, family event.  If you're spending the night, make sure you secure a lodging reservation today!