Thousands ring in 2025 in Downtown Pittsburgh with First Night festivities

PITTSBURGH — Before the clock struck midnight, an early fireworks show - mainly for the kids and young at heart - kicked off the New Year’s Eve celebrations in Downtown Pittsburgh.

“We come to the 6:30 p.m. ones because I don’t think we’ll make it till midnight,” Joyce Aughton of Emlenton said with a laugh.

PHOTOS: Thousands flock to Downtown Pittsburgh for First Night 2025

The 31st annual Highmark First Night Pittsburgh 2025 was filled with dancing in the street, an ice maze, and lots of dogs dressed up and ready for their close up.

Pittsburgh Police were out in full force with 80 officers and other law enforcement agencies from the county patrolling the Cultural District.

The city was expecting tens of thousands of New Year’s Eve revelers but it seems the rainy weather kept crowds away.

“It really didn’t stop raining and it’s still drizzling so I imagine if cold rain’s going to be getting you, you’re not going to come out,” said Geno Traficante, who’s been celebrating First Night for five years.

Those who did come out were ready to ring in 2025.

“This is my first time coming out on a New Year’s at all, ever,” said Lucas Anorak-Neill of Allentown. “My husband is home with my five-year old so I’m out having fun meeting up with some friends.”

John Principe has been driving in from Grove City for years.

“It’s become a tradition,” Principe said. “It’s probably the 20th year I’ve been coming down here.”

Many are hoping the new year brings good health.

“2024 was a good year. I had cancer but it was still a good year,” said cancer survivor Randy Aughton of Emlenton. “God’s been good to me.”

People are also hoping for good cheer.

“Hopefully the years keep getting better,” said Lisa Lego of West View.

The night ended with a countdown to 2025 with the Future of Pittsburgh Ball rise at the top of the Highmark Building and more fireworks. The ball rise rather than ball drop, symbolizes a city on the rise.

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