How to Do First Night Right

The emphasis on First Night has been as much on what you can't do as much as what you can do. So let's get what you can't do out of the way right now. Don't drive. Take public transportation. No excuses because the T will be free after 8 pm. The MBTA provides more details about the New Year's schedule here.

And, as far as the law is concerned, the message is try not to booze it up - at least not publicly. This is what the local law says on the matter: "And we are also telling everyone to leave the alcohol at home. If there are individuals who do not choose to celebrate responsibly, the Boston Police Department will be on hand." If you really want to get wasted, do it with Ryan Seacrest and Dick Clark.

The Grand Procession, whose theme is "Life on Earth," will take place between 5:30 and 7:00 along Boylston Street between Hynes Convention Center and Boston Common. The big fireworks will be at midnight at Boston Harbor.

If you are interested in attending one of the events, you'll need a First Night button, which are $15 and can be purchased at the ABP, Shaw's/Star Market, and Tedeschi's, along with other locations. You can search for events here, although Bostonist is partial to John Doe (formerly of legendary band X), who will play at the Orpheum Theatre from 7:30 to 8:15.

Screengrab of First Night performers from CBS4.