While traditional New Year’s Eve partiers croon a maudlin “Auld Lang Syne,” abstainers will admire balloons and colored lights starting at 5 p.m. at AmeriCU Credit Union’s First Night at Onondaga Lake Park presented by the Burdick Family of Dealerships at Driver’s Village.
First Nighters are invited to walk through Lights on the Lake, but don’t forget: NO alcohol and NO dogs!
Despite the frigid clime, live music will be performed outdoors all evening from the NAPA Main Stage culminating with a concert by Sean Kingston after the 9:30 p.m. reunion of local rock icon the Todd Hobin Band.
Kingston is a 20-year-old pop phenom who grew up in Jamaica where his father, known as Jack Ruby, is a successful reggae producer. Kingston started out as a rapper in Miami, Fla., before adopting a more melodic approach with his 2007 hit “Beautiful Girls.” More recent singles include “Me Love,” “Face Drop” and “Fire Burning.”
At 11:59 p.m., former Syracuse University basketball star Gerry McNamara will push a button to activate the descent of an illuminated giant orange. At the stroke of midnight, the Wegmans fireworks display over Onondaga Lake will usher in 2011.
First Night tickets cost $5 in advance, $8 at the gate; ages 4 and younger free; call 471-9597 for more details, or visit firstnightcny.com.
First Night schedule
5 p.m. Lights on the Lake Stroll and family fun activities.
5:-7 p.m. Kids songs on stage.
7:15 p.m. Early balloon launch for kids.
7-9 p.m. Live local entertainment.
9:30 p.m. Todd Hobin Band followed by Sean Kingston.
11:59 p.m. Orange ball drop with Gerry McNamara.
Midnight Fireworks over Onondaga Lake.
