Event Info

First Night 2023-2024 Celebration “ART IN THE PARK” at North Straub!

First Night Facts

Admissions & Pricing:

Admission to this year’s 2024 Celebration on December 31, 2023 is FREE thanks to our sponsors! So, Buttons are not required to participate. ,

First Night St. Petersburg ,Inc. is celebrating 30 Years of bringing the City of St Petersburg Art in Unexpected Places!

First Night St Pete is ringing in it’s 30th Anniversary Celebration of the Arts live and in North Straub Park in downtown St.Petersburg. There will be street performers, labyrinth, a peace flag project, sea creature puppet procession, interactive theatre, sing along music for kids, a drum circle, interactive art projects, a Bubble Stomp with Ann Kelly of WDUV and so much more.

SUPPORT FIRST NIGHT: A limited number of First Night St Petersburg commemorative buttons will be available for purchase/donation, especially for those who have been collectors of these limited edition pieces of art!  

How to purchase First Night Buttons:

Option One: Purchase buttons online November 1st until December 31st and pick-up at will-call the day of the event

Option Two: Donate to First Night by purchasing a commemorative buttons on December 31st at the main tent (location TBD)

Option Three: Buy Buttons Locally December 1st-December 30th at the Saturday Morning Market, or Shopapalooza on November 25th and 26th.

Acceptable forms of donations day of event: Cash, Debit/ CC or checks
Note: Checks must include a phone number and be made payable to: First Night St. Petersburg

Thanks for your support!

Accessibility:

This event was designed to provide equal opportunity for enjoyment to all participants. If you would like to request any particular aids or services pursuant to disability laws, please contact Jamie McWade at (727) 823-8906 or the City of St. Petersburg Community Affairs Department at (727) 893-7345 or (727) 892-5259 TDD/ TYY.

Directions:

To the event

  • If arriving via I-275 If arriving via I-275, follow the interstate signs and exit onto I-375. I-375 becomes 4th Avenue North and guests should follow that to the end where it forms a T with Beach Drive. To avoid the heavier traffic areas, follow directions to any of the parking garages in downtown or take 5th Ave N down to the North Shore parking area. Then walk along Bayshore Drive in to North or South Straub Park. Alternatively, you may take a right on 4th St N and park in any of the parking garages listed. Just click the link below for more information.

    Enter the Sundial Parking Garage via 2nd Street North, just south of 2nd Avenue North and then access the Pier by walking east on 2nd Avenue. Alternatively, the Al Lang Parking Lot entrance is located on 1st Avenue South between Beach and Bayshore Drive. Access North or South Straub Park by walking north on Bayshore Drive. For more information about St. Pete Parking Lots and Garages, click here.

Weather:

First Night will take place rain or shine so be sure to check the weather. First Night will not be cancelled due to weather.

FAQ's

1. Are we allowed to bring blankets and hang out in the open park areas to enjoy performances?
Absolutely! You might want to make sure that the blankets are easily wrapped up so that you can walk around and enjoy all of the activities but you are encouraged to hang out and enjoy the live music in North Straub, the Fireworks and of course the Aerial and dance performances happening in Williams Park.

2. Are dogs allowed at the event?
We strongly encourage everyone to kindly leave their furry friends at home. Not only because of the Fireworks but also because they won’t be allowed in the indoor venues (unless they are service animals with proper paperwork).

3. Will there be food?
Of course! There will be some food vendors and food trucks located along Bayshore Dr.

4. Are there restrooms available?
Portlets will be located in North Straub Park.

5. What’s the best way to find all of the activities happening?
Grab yourself a First Night program for all of the info you’ll need and also refer to our handy interactive map.

6. Can I bring my own food?
Of course! Bring a picnic basket and enjoy!

7. Where should I/ we park?
For more information about St. Pete Parking Lots and Garages, click here.

8. Are buttons required for admission?
NO! Admission is FREE this year, thanks to our sponsors! Commemorative buttons are available for purchase beginning November 1st.