First Night Hartford Celebrates 25th Anniversary

First Night Hartford will ring in 2014 for the 25th time on New Year's Eve, with events dating back to the first First Night, such as fireworks, and something new from Sea Tea Improv.

"Sea Tea Improv will portray some historical characters," said organizer Nicole Glander, "such as Prudence Crandall, Thomas Hooker, PT Barnum, and a few others.  They'll be wandering around the three floors of the Old State House."

The building is home to Kids' Fest, featuring face painting and performances in the courtroom. 

Outside there'll be more attractions and churches and museums within walking distance will also host events.

The ice rink at Bushnell Park will be open from 11 p.m. to 1 a.m. There'll be tours of the Soldiers' and Sailors' Arch, near the fireworks.  The annual pyrotechnic displays launch at 6 p.m. and midnight.

Wristbands are sold at various venues, at $12 for adults and $3 for youth, ages 3 to 15. 

"It lets you get in and out of the activities all day long, so it's an all-in-one wristband," Glander said.

Firstnighthartford.org can direct people to parking lots in downtown Hartford.  Some of them are running special discounts for First Night, Glander said.

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