Original text from an earlier festival edition. Dates, performers, prices, addresses and application instructions below are historical; they do not describe the returning 2027 edition. Old forms and transaction controls are disabled. Read current information ↗
First Night Artists
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Arists: Mainstage
Carriage Limousine Service LLC
Mainstage 7-10 p.m.
Carriage Limousine Services will offer sleigh rides through beautiful Downtown Akron in a one-of-a-kind eight passenger horse drawn sleigh.
Site supported by: FirstMerit Foundation
Children's Fireworks
Mainstage 9:00 p.m.
Enjoy the Akron Children's Hospital Kids Countdown Show with Popfusion at 8 p.m. Join the crowd at 9 p.m. at the Mainstage on Main Street for the fabulous FirstMerit Fireworks Show.
Sponsored by: FirstMerit Foundation
Elegant Ice Creations
Mainstage 6 p.m.-midnight
Have regret from 2014? Write it down and let it go in the Fire & Ice Tower. From 6-11:15 p.m., drop your regret, wish or other thoughts into the tower. The tower will be lit at 11:15 p.m. and burn through the midnight countdown.
Site Supported by: FirstMerit Foundation
Midnight Fireworks
Mainstage midnight
Join the crowd at 11:15 p.m. for the lighting of the Fire & Ice Tower and performance by stilt walkers, Pick Up Stix. At 11:45 p.m. join the University of Akron's UA Nuance and guest vocalists as they lead the First Night audience in lifting their spirits - and voices - before counting down to the new year. Then oooh and aaah over the FirstMerit Fireworks Show at midnight!
Supported by: FirstMerit Foundation
Pick Up Stix
Mainstage 11:15-midnight
John S. Knight Center 8-9 p.m.
The stilt walkers from this innovative group will be out to play, towering over you and ready to dance! Bring your camera and catch yourself right beside the fun. High powered LED's and bright fancy threads you won't be able to miss them.
Sites supported by: City of Akron and FirstMerit Foundation
Popfusion – Momentum Marketing
Mainstage 8-8:45 p.m.
Each interactive music-fueled Popfusion show gives guests the opportunity to win incredible Popfusion prizes while competing in incredible challenges and unique contests. Step into the Popfusion spotlight for your chance to win BIG!
Site supported by: FirstMerit Foundation