First Night Falls on the Last Night

By Sue Poremba

In late December, State College and the surrounding region undergo a transformation. The college students have finished their final exams and are back in their hometowns. Penn State closes its doors for 10 days, and faculty and staff take advantage of the holiday time to go on vacation – many to the Penn State bowl games. For those of us who stick around, it’s a quiet time, perfect for heading into town for dinner and shopping.

And for those of us still in town, State College gives us a New Year’s celebration. Joining in dozens of communities around the country, State College hosts First Night on December 31 and January 1. First Night is a non-alcoholic, family-friendly celebration of the upcoming year.

The highlights of State College’s First Night are ice sculptures. There are small sculptures in front of sponsoring businesses all around downtown. The 100 block of South Allen Street is shutdown for the large ice sculptures.

There will also be fire sculptures, ways to share your resolutions and artwork that reminds us of the importance of sustainability. The youngsters will enjoy the live reindeer, and for the more athletic among us, there is a 5K run.

Most outdoor events, but indoor entertainment, provided by local musicians, and carriage rides will require a First Night button. It’s $8 for the button, which can be used for all button events throughout the celebration.