First Night St Petersburg is excited to announce its return for the 2023-2024 celebration year, marking the 30th annual New Year’s Eve celebration of arts. This year’s event, themed “Art in the Park,” will be held at North Straub Park from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. on December 31, 2023, and is free for all ages, thanks to First Night St. Pete’s sponsors, Hines and the Tampa Bay Rays.
A Night to Remember: Art, Music, and Family Fun
First Night St Petersburg 2024 will transform North Straub Park into a wonderland of artistic expression and family-friendly fun. Highlights of the evening include:
- Dundu Dole Urban African Ballet: Performing from 5:00-5:30 p.m. and 6:20-6:50 p.m., this First Night favorite and one of Tampa Bay’s premier dance companies will dazzle with high energy and colorful costumes.
- Literary Village: Sponsored by the Story Garden, featuring story times, a book nook, and bookmark creation.
- Interactive Art Village: Showcasing recycling giants by Art Club of St Pete, a 3D mural immersion by Zulu Painter and other unique art installations.
- Performances: A range of acts from the Curiositorium LLC, including stilt walkers and aerial artists.Musical acts by Mr. Brad and Shana Banana.
- Musical Village: Featuring the Urban Gypsies Drum Circle and a custom-made music wall.
- Dance Stage: Offering classes and performances in various dance styles.
- Children’s Activities: Including the Tiny Theater, Sensory Studio, and First Night Picasso Masks.
Celebrating Resilience and Creativity
After adapting to virtual and at-home sessions in 2020 and 2021, and taking a break in 2022, First Night St Petersburg is thrilled to be back in person, celebrating the resilience and creativity of the community.
Social Media Engagement
Join the conversation and share your experiences on social media using our official handles:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/1stNightStPete
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firstnightstpete/
Commemorative Button by Artist Marc Lavesseur
This year’s commemorative button, designed by local artist Marc Lavesseur, reflects his southern roots and passion for light, shadow, color, and texture. His work invites viewers to engage with art on multiple levels, adding a unique touch to this year’s celebration.
Supporting the Arts and Community
As a non-profit event, First Night St Petersburg relies on community support. While admission is free, attendees are encouraged to purchase commemorative buttons, with proceeds going back into the arts and programming. Volunteer opportunities are also available for those who wish to contribute to the success of the event.
Plan Your Visit
Attendees are advised to park at the South Core parking garage and catch the Trolley to North Straub Park. Food trucks, snacks, and hot chocolate will be available for purchase, and guests are welcome to bring their own picnic food. Please note that First Night St Petersburg is an alcohol-free event.
For more information, to volunteer, or to become a sponsor, please contact us at info@firstnightstpete.com or visit our website at https://firstnightstpete.com/.
About First Night St Petersburg
First Night St Petersburg is Florida’s largest family-friendly New Year’s Eve Celebration of the Arts. For 30 years, it has brought art in unexpected places to downtown St Petersburg, enriching the community and fostering a love for the arts.
Join us in ringing in the New Year with a celebration that promises to be more spectacular than ever!