First Night organizers throughout the country claim that the lethargic economy may have a strong impact on crowds, who will be drawn to New Year’s Eve free celebrations, while pay-for events will be avoided.

 

However, the popular First Night New Year’s Eve party won’t take place everywhere. Unable to cope with fundraising affliction due to the financial crisis and a deficiency of volonteers, Evanston’s much-loved celebration was brought to a standstill after a 15-year run.

 

First Night board member Martha Rudy told the Chicago Tribune on Tuesday that the event would not be held this year and that it is unlikely for it to take place next year as well.

 

First Night International includes over 100 communities across the country that party in similar manners every year. Evanston’s First Night was first organized for families that appreciate music and the arts, according to Martha Rudy. While numerous institutions, churches, hotels, banks and office edifices made way for the event, various performers offered annually live entertainment.

 

Martha Rudy explained that sudden decreases in grant funds for the arts and a shortage of corporate backings were the main cause of the suspension of the event, which usually costs approximately $110,000 to organize.

 

While Evanston will miss its First Night party tonight, Boston is preparing for the long awaited event. The MBTA said that it would provide additional trains and buses for the city’s festivities and that it would offer free service after 8 p.m. on Wednesday night.

 

Approximately 1 million people are expected to attend the city’s New Year’s Eve celebration, which will be topped by midnight fireworks over Boston Harbor.