For those looking to avoid the rowdier festivities of most New Year's Eve celebrations, First Night Columbia might be a more family-friendly alternative.
Modeled after a citywide New Year's celebration that originated in Boston in 1976, the 14th First Night Columbia is an alcohol-free celebration of the arts with activities and entertainment for all ages.
The festivities kick off at 4 p.m. with a 5K run/walk and continue on into the night and early morning with over 60 performances at different venues downtown.
"We have everything from ragtime to rock and roll," First Night's director of operations Karen Ramey said. "We have dueling grand pianos, an Italian guitar master, Chinese folk art and puppets, percussion, belly dancers. We have the gamut; from local to international."
Those interested in attending may purchase early admission buttons for $8 until 4 p.m. Wednesday at Columbia Parks and Recreation Department, the ARC, Streetside Records and Gerbes Supermarkets.
After 5:30 p.m., buttons will be available for $10 at the YouZeum and Stamper Commons at Stephens College. After 6:30 p.m. buttons will also be available at the Armory, First Christian Church and the Missouri Center Center for the Arts.
Admission is free for those 7 years old and younger.
Ramey said a committee has been preparing for First Night Columbia all year.
"It's a pretty big production," she said. Ramey said she is unsure how many buttons have been sold for the event so far, but that they are expecting somewhere around 12,000 people.
"The entertainment is really fantastic, and it's a great opportunity to celebrate the new year with family and friends," Ramey said. "It's just a really good time to come out to downtown Columbia and really enjoy our beautiful district and the facilities and some great entertainment and activities."