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• First Night Tips
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First Night Tips

Make the most of your First Night by planning in advance.

Allow ample time to get from one location to the next, and arrive at performance venues early. Admission to performances sites is on a first-come, first-serve basis, and programs start at the scheduled times. Programs often draw full houses. Plan backup choices in case a show is filled.

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First Night Raleigh is a weatherproof event!

Dress in layers for inside and outside activities.

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The Food

Vendors selling a variety of food and beverages (hotdogs, burgers, pizza, funnel cakes, donuts, coffee, hot chocolate and much more) will be located on Bicentennial Plaza and in several locations along Fayetteville Street.  In addition, most downtown restaurants within the festival footprint are open on New Year's Eve.  Please note:  No food or drink is allowed inside First Night venues.  First Night Raleigh is an alcohol-free event.  Patrons seeking adult beverages are encouraged to patronize any of the myriad restaurants and bars around downtown.  Open containers are not permitted outdoors within the festival footprint.

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First Aid

The Red Cross First Aid Center at the Children’s Celebration is located inside the North Carolina Museum of History's Cardinal Room in the lower level classroom wing. The First Aid Center moves to the lobby of the Bank of America Building, near the Main Stage, in the evening.

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Lost and Found

Lost and Found is located at Volunteer Headquarters, located in the lobby of the NC Museum of History from 1:00-10:30 pm.  If you lose an item at First Night, please check at Volunteer Headquarters to see if it's been turned in, or contact the Artsplosure office after the event.

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Accessibility

Most performance sites are accessible to people with mobility impairments. If you need assistance with accessibility, please call 919-832-8699 before 5:00 pm on December 28, and we will try to accommodate your needs.

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Restrooms

Some performance sites have restrooms available to the public.  Portable outdoor facilities are located throughout the festival--on Morgan, Martin and Davie Streets.

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Security

Raleigh and State Capitol Police will be on site throughout the evening to help ensure your safety.

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Information and Merchandise

For buttons, First Night Raleigh T-shirts, and information visit any of the Button Sales Tents located throughout the festival—on Bicentennial Plaza and in locations along Fayetteville Street and near the Main Stage.  First Night Ambassadors will also be roaming throughout the festival all night to help point you in the right direction.  These are seasoned First Night volunteers who will be able help answer any questions you may have!