Future of 'First Night' unclear

NORTHAMPTON, Mass. (WWLP) - On the last night of every year, "First Night" has been bringing a Times Square feel to the center of Northampton.

For years it has been a New Year's Eve tradition to watch the ball rise on top of Hotel Northampton. But now the future of "First Night" is unclear.

On Thursday, the Northampton Center for the Arts announced that 2012 will be their last year sponsoring the city's "First Night" celebration. This news came as a huge shock to the community, since this organization was behind the event for nearly three decades.

"It's really hard to imagine what New Year's Eve would be like without 'First Night'. It's like an institution of Northampton. I know people come from all over. I just hope they can keep it going because it's important to al of us", said Northampton resident, Nancy Lustgarten

"[First Night] gives families a chance to all go out together and do fun things for all ages; and it's hard to find things like that, so I think it should continue as long as possible", said Rina Kleege of Brooklyn, New York.

Those who live nearby or work in the city say that the local economy depends greatly on this popular once-a-year event.

"It's really a value for people to see [First Night]--in particular, people who don't live in Northampton or here everyday. [Northampton's] the center of the valley and it's important to have these unusual opportunities for everybody to get together", said Kenneth Elstein of Belchertown.

If "First Night" is discontinued, it's possible local businesses and jobs could be affected.

As far as sponsorship goes, there's still no word yet on who will be taking over the popular New Year's event.