PORT TOWNSEND — Admission passes are available now for the third annual First Night, a non-alcoholic New Year Eve’s celebration.
A maritime theme for games, songs and storytelling has been chosen for the Port Townsend celebration, which is scheduled from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Dec. 31.
“First Night is for everyone,” said Vicki Davis, president of the Jefferson County Historical Society, which organizes the event sponsored by First Federal.
“It has something for families, singles and couples of all ages.”
Those who get passes in advance will receive discounts at several downtown restaurants prior to 6 p.m. that night, said Bill Tennent, historical society executive director.
Avoid the rush
“We encourage people to get their passes in advance this year to avoid the rush when the event starts,” he said.
Passes are available at the historical society’s museum in old City Hall, 540 Water St.
Old City Hall will be the venue for many of the activities planned Dec. 31.
Musical singalongs and Broadway show tunes will be featured in the City Council chamber. A photography exhibit will be mounted in the Hildt Room.
Musicians and actors will perform in the Fire Hall.
Hands-on “history bingo” and a maritime history project will be in the courtroom.
The Port Townsend High School Interact Club will conduct children’s games in the spooky jail cells.
The Port Townsend Athletic Club, 229 Monroe St., will be a venue for children’s stories presented by the Key City Public Theatre.
‘Sailor’s valentines’
At the Jefferson Community School, 280 Quincy St., Suite 1, children will create maritime art pieces called “sailor’s valentines,” and the Key City Playhouse will feature “The Best of PT Shorts.”
Nearby, Elevated Ice Cream Co. and Candy Shop, 631 Water St., will feature face painting and live music.
The Pope Marine Building, Water and Madison streets, will be jumping with square, line, round and folk dancing. Live music also will be featured at the Boiler Room, 711 Water St.
New York time
At 9 p.m., which is midnight in New York City, Port Townsend will usher in 2010 with the raising of the illuminated anchor created by sculptor Thaddeus Jurczynski, followed by fireworks launched from Memorial Field.
Admission is by donation. A $5 donation is suggested. Proceeds will benefit historical society programs.
All pass holders will receive raffle tickets for prizes donated by local merchants.
The raffle will take place at the close of the evening following the fireworks. It is not necessary to be present to win.
“We couldn’t do it without all of our partners,” said Phyllis Snyder, event coordinator.
“Jefferson County Public Health, Jefferson County Parks and Recreation, the city of Port Townsend, Key City Public Theatre, the students from Interact and Jefferson Community School and all of our wonderful artists, musicians and volunteers.”