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Boston Marks 2026 With First Night’s 50th Year of Parades, Performances and Fireworks

Despite bitter cold, turnout remained strong across downtown venues.

Overview

  • Hundreds gathered at City Hall Plaza as the daylong festival unfolded across multiple sites with skating, dance, live music and ice sculptures.
  • Mayor Michelle Wu led the parade, which traveled down Tremont Street and drew families and visitors from out of town.
  • The Handel and Haydn Society and the Museum of African American History co-presented an Emancipation Proclamation Concert at Trinity Church.
  • Members of Extinction Rebellion took part in the parade alongside community groups, stilt walkers and youth performers.
  • Fireworks illuminated Boston Common in the evening, the Prudential Center displayed a glowing “26,” and a midnight harbor show from Long Wharf closed out the celebration.