First Night Chatham

About Us

First Night Chatham is a family-friendly annual New Year’s Eve celebration of the arts. Our town-wide celebration with over 70 performances and events takes place every December 31st, thanks to an all-volunteer organizing committee and dozens of day-of volunteers. Our 2024-2025 First Night Chatham event was our 34th New Year’s Eve celebration! Festivities start with the Town Photo at the Chatham Lighthouse at noon, with both indoor and outdoor performances and activities throughout the day at several venues. A peak of noise and awe happens each year with the Noise Parade (6 pm) and Veterans Field Fireworks (6:30 pm), and more performances until finishing at 10 pm.

Centered on Main Street and with easy and free shuttle buses to other venues, First Night Chatham offers something for everyone -- a circus, musicians, magicians, children's activities, incredible musical entertainment, and many food options including restaurants and food truck options. The non-profit organization relies upon button sales, donations, grants, and sponsorships to continue this spectacular event each year. And you can volunteer to help for as little as one hour that day. Watch for us in Chatham's July 4th Parade and SAVE THE DATE - December 31, 2025 - for our 35th First Night Chatham!

Follow our website and social media updates, and weekly Cape Cod Chronicle updates from November through December, as well as the Chatham Chamber of Commerce newsletter and website for the most current information.

THANK YOU, VOLUNTEERS, SPONSORS, AND DONORS!