First Night to Host Benefit New Year’s Eve Ball in Downtown Hartford
HARTFORD, CT — For the first time in decades, a New Year’s Eve Ball will be held in Downtown Hartford. Dubbed the “First & Last Ball,” the event will transform the historic Bond Ballroom into a glitzy New Year’s Eve bash featuring entertainment and dancing and capped off with a champagne toast at midnight and an exclusive, penthouse floor view of the incredible First Night Hartford fireworks display over Bushnell Park. The ball, which welcomes guests 21 years and older, is a benefit fundraiser supporting both First Night Hartford and Hartford Bonanza, the city’s Independence Day festival.
“We’re excited to bring the longtime tradition of the New Year’s Eve ball back to Downtown Hartford in a new way,” said Marian Andoh Clarke, board chair of First Night Hartford, the nonprofit organization that independently produces the two events. “The First & Last Ball is going to be an awesome party for an amazing cause, supporting two important Hartford community traditions.”
This year’s First & Last Ball will feature entertainment by DJ Craig G and Tony Ramos, guest performances, hors d’ouerves and cash bar, champagne toast at midnight, and more. Guests will enjoy the best view of the New Year’s Eve fireworks from the 12th story penthouse floor of the Bond Ballroom tower. Cocktail attire is encouraged.
Early bird tickets are available for $75 until December 5. After December 5, tickets are $100 each. After December 26, the price goes up to $125. Event sponsorships are also available.
Tickets for the First & Last Ball can be purchased by visiting: https://givebutter.com/FNH2026Ball
What: The First & Last Ball, a New Year’s Eve benefit supporting First Night Hartford and Hartford Bonanza
Who: approx. 200 guests, Hartford elected officials, Hartford business leaders, DJ Craig G, local musical performers
When: Wednesday, December 31, 2025, 9:00 PM - 1:00 AM
Where: The Bond Ballroom, 338 Asylum Ave, Hartford
ABOUT FIRST NIGHT HARTFORD
First Night Hartford, Inc., produces two beloved annual community celebrations in Bushnell Park with art, music, food & fireworks--First Night Hartford (New Year's Eve tradition) & Hartford Bonanza (Independence Day Weekend festival)--that showcase the capital city's arts and cultural ecosystem and promote civic joy, social cohesion, and community pride. First Night Hartford 2026 is its 37th annual celebration; Hartford Bonanza 2026 will be the6th annual summer tradition. First Night Hartford is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization serving the Hartford region and beyond.
