First Night 2004

BUFFALO, N.Y. – First Night Buffalo, Western New York’s largest drug and alcohol free family-friendly celebration, was once again a smash hit. Thousands of Western New Yorkers rang in the New Year by attending events that provided fun for everyone at 11 locations.

Music was prevalent on the New Year’s Eve agenda. Live bands performed throughout the evening at locations that included the Buffalo and Erie County Historical Society, the Delaware Park Casino, the Albright-Knox Art Gallery and McKinley High School.

McKinley High School also was where master hypnotist David Blaine performed his spellbinding act, and where local jokesters ComedySportz elicited laughs with their unique brand of hi jinks. As always, audience participation dictated the direction of the act.

At Buffalo State College, kids got to meet TV’s Dora the Explorer, and partake in a pint-sized home show of sorts, as they pinballed their way through a housing development of inflatable bounce houses.

The college also was site of ice skating, a psychic show, family circus, variety show and a presentation by Scholastic’s The Magic School Bus® Live. The night was capped off with an elaborate fireworks display.

“I’d like to thank our dedicated staff and all the volunteers who once again made First Night a fantastic success,” said Independent Health Foundation President William L. McHugh. “Each year we try to add new features and expand the opportunities for a safe, fun, family environment. Many who attended told us they had a great time, and look forward to coming back next year. It’s gratifying to hear the positive reactions, and that people are already anticipating First Night 2005.”

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