The Springfield Area Arts Council invites the community to ring in 2025 with the 38th annual First Night Springfield, a beloved New Year’s Eve tradition celebrating the arts in a family-friendly, alcohol-free environment. This year’s event is presented in partnership with the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, the Dana-Thomas House, and the Hoogland Center for the Arts.
Tickets are on sale now, priced at $25 for adults (16+), while children 15 and under attend free. Admission buttons, a cherished First Night tradition, return this year and will be available to the first 200 ticket buyers. These collectible buttons serve as tickets to the festivities. Youth attendees will receive wristbands.
The celebration begins at 12:00 PM with children’s crafts and live performances at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum (ALPLM), running until 5:00 PM. Ticket holders will enjoy free museum admission, providing a perfect afternoon activity for families. Additional children’s crafts will take place from 3:00 to 5:00 PM at the Hoogland Center for the Arts, hosted by the Garvey Tubman Cultural Arts and Research Center and the Sangamon Watercolor Society.
From 3:00 to 8:00 PM, the Hoogland Center will feature performances by the Lotus Fire Belly Dancers, Capital City Improv Group, The Muni, Central Illinois Irish Dancers, The Lincoln Ring of Magicians, and other local talent.
Over at the Dana-Thomas House, guests can enjoy live period music by the Dana-Thomas House Band, featuring Jane Hartman, Buddy Rogers, Chrissy Becker, and Chaz Blythe. The ensemble will perform everything from ragtime to big band favorites from 3:00 to 7:00 PM. Open house tours of the historic site will also be available.
The evening culminates in a spectacular fireworks display at 8:00 PM, ensuring families can enjoy the celebration and still get home in time for bedtime or their own countdown to the New Year.
Free parking is available in the garage adjacent to the Hoogland Center, making it easy for attendees to join the festivities.
For those looking to get involved, volunteers are needed to assist with activities, performances, and event setup. Sponsorship opportunities are also available for individuals and businesses wanting to support this longstanding Springfield tradition.
For tickets, event updates, or more information on volunteering or sponsorships, visit the Springfield Area Arts Council’s website. Don’t miss the chance to celebrate the arts and community spirit this New Year’s Eve at the 38th annual First Night Springfield!
