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Fireworks after the New Year's Eve Parade mark the close of the early events.

Everyone knows that First Night comes on New Year's Eve, but after that, getting a handle on Montpelier's First Night is not so easy. The first problem is the party starts way before work lets out on New Year's Eve. Translated, that means if you want to be on top of the First Night situation, you might want to consider scheduling the last day of the year as a day when you are free to start checking out Montpelier in the morning.

Officially, the events kickoff at noon, with the traditional ice skating event at the Central Vermont Civic Center. It's open skating from noon-3pm. If you are there for the skating, you are sure to be off on a great start to a fantastic First Night.

Downtown, activities abound for those with First Night Buttons.

Fireworks, at about 9pm New Year's Eve, after the New Year's Eve Parade mark the close of the early events, and the start of the Dance Till the New Year Party in the ballroom setup in City Hall. Ages 0-100+ will be on hand, appropriate for anyone, everyone welcome.

Vermont Church Northfield Falls by Christiane. Coffee inside.

No matter which road you take into town, or whether you are here already, coffee always is available hot and fresh in Montpelier.

24-hour locations include Champlain Farms/Exxon and Cumberland Farms.