First Night button provides admission to a cornucopia of events
Missoula and Kalispell are gearing up for First Night, a community-wide, alcohol-free celebration of the arts, held across the U.S. on New Year’s Eve.
First Night Missoula
The Missoula Cultural Council is preparing for the 22nd annual First Night – a giant celebration that showcases 80 performances and activities in more than 25 venues in downtown Missoula, at the University of Montana and Southgate Mall from noon until midnight on Dec. 31.
Music, theatre, dance, children’s programs, visual arts, workshops and “hands-on” activities highlight this magical daylong event.
Special events include the Children’s Parade of Hats at Southgate Mall at p.m. (come any time after noon, and the Mall will provide masks and decorations); ice carving on the Courthouse lawn; the First Night Spotlight High School talent competition, and the Grand Finale at the University Center with a choice of the Ed Norton Big Band and the Drum Brothers.
Other performers include Rocky Mountain Ballet Theatre, The Celtic Dragon Pipe Band, Mudslide Charley, the Big Sky Mud Flaps, Salsa Loca, Zeppo Blues, the John Floridis Trio, Wilbur Rehmann, Captain Wilson Conspiracy, and many more.
Beach Transportation provides free shuttle-bus service for all participants. Admission is $15 in advance ($18 on Dec. 31), with children ages 7 and under free. Buttons are available online at www.missoulacultural.org/firstnight or at over 20 locations throughout Missoula and in the Bitterroot Valley. Volunteer and get a free button by calling 406-541-0860.
First Night Flathead
The 17th annual First Night Flathead offers something for everyone, beginning with free family activities from 1-4 p.m. at the Kalispell Center Mall, including face painting, games, crafts and a parade. The evening’s performances take place at 12 venues in downtown Kalispell and feature 35 artists. This year’s roster includes Jack Gladstone, the Kenny James Miller Band, Big Daddy and the Blue Notes, The Stringlers, Tra Le Gael and the Tropical Montana Marimba Ensemble.
Tickets are $12-$15; order online at firstnightflathead.org.