BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW / release) – Thousands kicked off the New Year at Independent Health Foundation’s First Night Buffalo® - Western New York’s ultimate drug- and alcohol-free New Year’s Eve celebration at the Buffalo Niagara Convention Center.
The annual holiday family tradition celebrated its 23rd year in downtown Buffalo with activities for all ages to ring in the New Year.
Acts included the comedy of improvisation with Wacky Chad,
contortionist Aidan Orange, world famous hypnotist Jerry Valley, rides and amusements, Storybook Land, laser tag, music, exotic reptiles, the grand finale balloon drop with indoor fireworks, and more.
“Western New York families have celebrated a drug and alcohol-free New Year’s Eve at First Night Buffalo for more than 20 years,” said Carrie Meyer, executive director, Independent Health Foundation.
“It’s an annual tradition for many families and we enjoy
seeing them come back year after year. The Independent Health Foundation, along with Western New York United Against Drug & Alcohol Abuse, is pleased to continue presenting this fun, affordable and safe event," Carrie continued.
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“First Night Buffalo is one of our region’s mainstay events and we’re pleased to support this event each year with our dedicated sponsors and volunteers,” said Michael W. Cropp, M.D., president and chief executive officer, Independent Health. “This holiday tradition provides a healthy, positive and fun environment to start the New Year.”
WNY United Against Drug & Alcohol Abuse teamed up with the Independent Health Foundation to help spread the alcohol- and drug-free message in the community this holiday season.
“WNY United Against Drug & Alcohol Abuse is excited to help produce the 23rd Annual First Night Buffalo event,” said Jessica Lafalce, communications coordinator, WNY United. “We work diligently each day to carry forward the message of living a life without drugs and First Night Buffalo is the ideal event to accomplish this goal. We
encourage healthy choices and are thrilled to be part of providing families in Western New York a safe and fun place to celebrate. A family-focused event that showcases art, amusements and performances and a drug-free life - what a great way to ring in the New
Year!”
Channel 7 is proud to join Independent Health, M&T Bank, Wegmans, The Buffalo News, VSP Marketing Graphic Group, and
Lamar in sponsoring "First Night!"
