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First Night Morris County is the alcohol-free New Year’s Eve celebration held every December 31 across downtown Morristown, and it has run since 1992 as the largest First Night in New Jersey. The next one, First Night Morris County 2027, falls on Thursday, December 31, 2026, and will be the 35th annual celebration.
Organizers have not released the 2027 lineup, button prices or venue list yet. We will update this page as soon as they do, and you can also watch firstnightmorris.org.
What to Expect on New Year’s Eve
Based on the most recent First Night (December 31, 2025):
- Runs from late afternoon to midnight, with last year’s program starting at 4:30 p.m.
- 80+ performances at 20+ venues around downtown Morristown, plus live stream and on-demand options
- Admission is a button, and last year’s buttons started at $30
- Complimentary parking and free shuttles between venues
- A family-friendly, alcohol-free and substance-free night that ends with a midnight countdown
First Night Morris County 2026: How Last Year Worked
First Night Morris County has officially announced the launch of tickets and the full program lineup for its 34th annual New Year’s Eve celebration in Morristown. The event returns on December 31, 2025, bringing more than seven hours of performances, activities, and entertainment for families across New Jersey.
Beginning in 1992, First Night Morris County has grown into the largest First Night event in New Jersey. It remains a family-friendly, alcohol-free celebration designed to unite the community through arts, culture, and education. Thousands of residents visit Morristown each year to enjoy live music, visual arts, dance, comedy, films, and the signature midnight countdown.
This year’s admission button provides unlimited access to a wide range of entertainment across Morristown. Highlights include:
• More than 80 performances at 23 venues, including 21 in-person sites, one streaming venue, and one on-demand venue
• A film festival beginning at 4:30 PM, featuring family, teen, adult, and international films
• The Children’s Fun Festival at Morristown High School from 4:45 PM to 9 PM
• Music ranging from classical and jazz to reggae and choral performances
• Dance classes, comedy shows, magic, and interactive experiences
• A grand finale midnight countdown to celebrate the arrival of 2026
• Complimentary shuttle service starting at 4:30 PM and complimentary parking beginning at 4 PM for all Morristown parking garages
This year also includes new historic exhibits, enhanced shuttle pick-up locations, and added convenience for Will Call ticket pick-up.
First Night Morris 2026 Ticket Information
Early-bird pricing is available through December 21, 2025. All sales are final. Visitors are encouraged to purchase their admission buttons early to secure the best price.
To buy tickets or learn more about sponsorship opportunities, visit the First Night Morris County website.
A Spotlight on Community Impact Through FNM365
First Night Morris County is more than a single night of celebration. The organization operates as a self-funded, volunteer-based 501(c)(3) that reinvests into the community all year long through its FNM365 program.
One of the newest innovations is FRED, the First Night Resource and Event Directory. Developed by STEM Leadership Interns from the Morris County School of Technology, FRED helps attendees navigate the event and highlights the educational mission behind the program.
FNM365 supports several community initiatives, including:
• Artist entrepreneurship and local arts development
• STEM education and workforce readiness programs
• Reading To A Better Future, a literacy support initiative
• Button Donation Programs for families in need
• Community partnership reinvestments for fellow non-profits
Sponsorship and Volunteer Opportunities
First Night Morris County welcomes supporters, volunteers, and sponsors. Contributions help keep the annual New Years Eve event affordable for families while funding year-round programs.
Sponsorships directly support arts and cultural programming, student education, literacy development, and community access to the event. Volunteer opportunities are available both for the festival night and throughout the year.
Why First Night Matters
First Night Morris County has become a cherished tradition in Morristown, attracting families, artists, and community partners who want to celebrate the New Year in a safe, inspiring, and family-focused environment. With more than three decades of history, the festival continues to shine as one of the region’s most significant cultural events, offering something meaningful for every age group.
First Night Morris County FAQ
When is First Night Morris County 2027?
Thursday, December 31, 2026, in downtown Morristown. It will be the 35th annual First Night Morris County.
How much are First Night Morris County buttons?
Prices for the December 31, 2026 event have not been announced. For the December 31, 2025 event, buttons started at $30.
Is First Night Morris County alcohol-free?
Yes. First Night Morris County is a family-friendly, alcohol-free and substance-free New Year’s Eve celebration.
Planning the rest of the holidays? See our guides to New Year’s Eve in New Jersey and Christmas lights in New Jersey.
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