IF YOU GO Boston First Night

When and where: First Night events begin at 1 p.m. New Year's Eve at a variety of locations around the city, including the Hynes Convention Center, area churches, museums and other public buildings. The event concludes with a fireworks display at midnight over Boston Harbor. The Grand Procession moves down Boylston Street beginning at 5:30 p.m.
Getting in: A $15 button, available online at www.firstnight.org and area retailers, provides admission to all events, but seating is first come, first served.
Getting around: Some public parking is available in several garages, including the Prudential Center and Boston Common, but taking public transportation is highly recommended. The MBTA Green Line subway stops at Hynes Convention Center and Copley are most centrally located, but some events are not within walking distance and require Green Line trips to other stops, such as Coolidge Corner and the Science Museum. Most rides are $1.25, and a one-day pass allowing unlimited rides will cost you $6, but all service is free New Year's Eve after 8 p.m. For more information, visit www.mbta.com or call (617) 222-3200.
Accommodations: Hotels fill up quickly, but several offer special First Night packages. For information, contact the Greater Boston Convention and Visitors Bureau at (617) 536-4100 or by visiting www.bostonusa.com.
Access for disabled: Many programs are interpreted in sign language, and all sites are wheelchair-accessible except a small screening room at Coolidge Corner Theatre and The Boston Park Plaza Terrace Room.
More information: Complete schedule and planner available for Boston events at www.firstnight.org, or call (617) 542-1399.
First Night elsewhere: There are more than 100 First Night celebrations in 29 states around the country. For links to First Night information for other cities, visit www.firstnight.com/cities.php.