First Night Escondido

Downtown Escondido near the California Center for the Arts, Escondido

(760) 739-0101

This is an event that's G-rated for New Year's Eve so you can celebrate with the family. It's a no-alcohol event where you buy a button (that's your ticket) for $8 -- less if you buy it before the event. The ticket allows you inside the roped-off performance areas and gives you access to all the fun. Last year Jeannie and Jimmy Cheatham (see the Close-up in the Nightlife chapter) and other top headliners were among the stars to perform. There's something for everyone from steel bands and chamber music to mariachi bands and acrobats. There's lots of food too -- everything from pizza and hot dogs to foot-long sandwiches, ribs and chicken. Insiders always save room for the strawberry cheese cake and gourmet coffee. First Night begins at 6 PM and goes until the midnight fireworks. Proceeds from the admission support the arts community. Call your local parks and recreation department for other First Nights in the area.

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