Thousands gathered at Bushnell Park on Wednesday night to ring in the new year as part of Hartford's annual First Night celebration.
The fireworks went off with their familiar bang as they lit up the sky in style. Families also took part in the dozens of other activities and events.
"We already did the face painting and the photo booth," explained 6-year-old Avary Wirzulis.
Some put their feet up and decided to take the train while others listened to music and tried their best to stay warm.
One attraction that's a big hit every year is the ice skating, and many snapped on skates for the first time.
"This is my first time ice skating," said Windsor resident Anthony Edwards. "I wanted to take my daughter to see the fireworks. Her mother is afraid to ice skate, so you know, just the first time experience for us."
The afternoon kicked off with a skating celebration alongside members of the UConn hockey team, and the skating continued through the evening.
"New year, new things," said South Windsor resident Kaity Silverman. "What better night to go ice skating than New Years Eve?"
As 2014 came to an end, those at First Night said they couldn't imagine a better place to celebrate the new year.
"This is great for the city. Kids can come out and have a good time and spend time with the family. That's what the holidays are about," said Edwards.
