First Night Virginia Turnout Expected to Increase

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Updated: 9:54 AM Dec 28, 2010

The countdown is on for First Night Virginia in Charlottesville. On New Year's Eve the Downtown Mall will be transformed into party central. With new teen activities and a warmer forecast, organizers are expecting a huge turnout.

Posted: 2:37 PM Dec 27, 2010
Reporter: Stephanie Satchell
Email Address: stephanie.satchell@newsplex.com

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December 27, 2010

The countdown is on for First Night Virginia in Charlottesville. On New Year's Eve the Downtown Mall will be transformed into party central.

With First Night Virginia just a few days away some people are already thinking about the entertainment line up and the warmer temperatures. Both of which some say will help make the event fun for everyone who attends.

Monday the downtown mall is a ghost town, windy and cold. Come New Year's Eve the place will be jumping.

Now that Christmas is over people are turning their attention to bringing in the new year. You'll find more than just bands and kiddie activities at First Night Virginia, sponsored by Carpet Plus this year. This the event is catering to teens.

“We're going to have the “Teen Extreme” at the Key Rec center so they're going to be able to ride a bull. Be able to have this huge boxing with these big boxing gloves. There's also going to be an obstacle course for the teens. I think its going to be pretty exciting,” said Drake Van de Castle, President, First Night Virginia.

Many Charlottesville residents say this added entertainment is a good way to teens involved in the family event.

“It's good to me for the age bracket. Keep 'em out of trouble and maybe they can learn something and get something out of it,” said Edward Jones, Charlottesville Resident.

“I don't think in the past they have been geared specifically to teens. Its been small children and adults. So, I think this is a great thing,” said Mary Gilliam, Charlottesville Resident.

Not only is the entertainment expected to draw in large crowds some predict the forecast for warmer temps will have people pouring into the downtown mall.

“ I think it might be more people this year because it will be nice and warm. People don't have to be wrapped up, “said Jones.

Whatever it is that brings you out to First Night Virginia, organizers say you're sure to enjoy the night and ring in the new year while having loads of fun.

First Night Virginia kicks off New Year's Eve at 3:00pm on the downtown mall. Entertainment will stretch from the Omni Hotel to the Charlottesville Pavilion.

Special “Teen Extreme” events will take place in the Key Recreation Center next to the city hall annex.

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