23rd annual First Night to reflect on Pittsburgh's bicentennial

For two decades, people of all ages have enjoyed spending New Year’s Eve in Pittsburgh’s Cultural District.

This year, the 23rd annual Highmark First Night Pittsburgh’s theme is “Pittsburgh: The Next 200 Years” in honor of the city’s bicentennial.

This year’s family-friendly, arts-focused event will kick off at 6 p.m. Dec. 31 and end when 2017 is welcomed in at midnight.

The celebration takes place throughout the city’s 14-block cultural district and includes musicians, comedians, children’s activities, a parade and two Zambelli Fireworks displays.

Organizers said even if the weather is inclement there's no need to stay home as 90 percent of the events are indoors or heated. At the end of the evening, visitors can count down to midnight and watch the raising of the 1,000 lb. “Future of Pittsburgh” ball above Penn Avenue Place along with a fireworks finale.

This year's musical headliner, the Nigel Hall Band, will perform on the Highmark Stage during the grand finale. The New Orleans-based band's musical style includes funk, soul and jam-band rock. Other musical acts slated to perform include Johnny Angel and the Halos and Jim Donovan and the Sun King Warriors.

Admission buttons are $10 per person, and children ages 5 and younger are free.

For a complete schedule of events, visit

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Cox Media Group