Frightened by frigid forecast? First Night Raleigh offers indoor fun

Although the forecast calls of temperatures only in the teens when the acorn drops Sunday night in Raleigh's City Plaza, the cold shouldn't be a reason to stay home, First Night organizers say.

Posted 2:41 a.m. Dec 29, 2017 — Updated 5:48 p.m. Jul 13, 2018

RALEIGH, N.C. — Although the forecast calls of temperatures only in the teens when the acorn drops Sunday night in Raleigh's City Plaza, the cold shouldn't be a reason to stay home, First Night organizers say.

The event, which begins Sunday afternoon and lasts through midnight, features activities, crafts and performances at more 35 locations throughout downtown Raleigh.

"Really, the heart of our event is indoors," said Cameron Laws, marketing director for Artsplosure, the organization behind First Night. "We have a few dozen indoor locations that you can experience, theater, music, comedy. Everything is in these indoor venues for you to get warm."

While the main event – the acorn drop and midnight fireworks – is outdoors, there are plenty of ways to stay warm while you wait.

The day begins with family-friendly maker workshops and music and dance lessons to ready participants for the People's Procession, an open-to-all parade the proceeds the early countdown at 7 p.m.

Throughout the evening, dance in the ballroom at the Sire Walter Apartments, tie the knot at the pop-up wedding chappel, enjoy jazz at First Baptist Church or opera at Edenton Street United Methodist Church. And that's just a sample!

Organizers tout more than 100 activities and performances, all for the price of a $11 First Night pass, available at Harris Teeter or CVS locations and for sale online.

As in the past, Laws says organizers are planning for up to 80,000 people at First Night.

“It will be cold, but that has never stopped people before because this is a great Raleigh tradition,” she said.

Celebrate safely for good start to 2018

Security will be in full force Sunday night, in downtown Raleigh and elsewhere as revelers ring in the new year.

Authorities warn against dangerous traditions like celebratory gunfire, even in less-populated areas. "The reality is that any bullet discharged from a gun, even into the sky, must land somewhere. This practice can lead to significant unintended injury or death," said Capt. Chris Gaddis of the Burlington Police Department.

He warned, too, against the use of fireworks. Even those that are legal carry a risk of fire or injury.

"Some safe alternatives to choose from are pinatas, toy noisemakers and balloons with confetti," Gaddis said.

Police and the state Highway Patrol will be on alert for drivers who may overindulge in alcohol at their celebration.

"We urge everyone to prepare before the celebration in how you will commute home and suggest that you use a sober adult driver or a credible transportation service/ application," Gaddis said.

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