FIRST NIGHT'S BIG IDEA - ART FOR ALL!

Donate To Celebrate 32 Years of FNM!

Since its vibrant inception on December 31, 1993, First Night Monterey has proudly championed the spirit of community by weaving together the rich tapestry of our cultural diversity through the arts, turning New Year’s Eve into a joyous celebration of creativity and connection. From the get-go, we embraced the idea that the arts are not just a destination but an exhilarating journey of exploration, fostering unique partnerships with local businesses and nonprofits that amplify the voices of traditional cultural and arts organizations.

As we reflect on the years gone by, it’s heartwarming to see how the transformative power of the arts has woven a fabric of acceptance and unity, creating meaningful connections within our community. So, let’s raise a toast (or perhaps a paintbrush!) to a night filled with laughter, creativity, and fun, all while reminding ourselves that the magic of First Night Monterey extends far beyond just one evening—our commitment to providing ongoing cultural opportunities throughout the year keeps the spirit alive and thriving! Join us in this delightful celebration; who knows what artistic adventures await?

Each year, we rely on the incredible support of sponsors, donors, and button buyers to help us provide top-notch technical assistance for our talented performers and to ignite inspiration in the hearts of the youth and families we serve. This year, we have set an ambitious goal of raising $20,000 to cover essential needs, and we are reaching out to beloved friends like you to help us achieve this milestone! We are thrilled to share that our dedicated Board of Directors is generously offering to match donations, amplifying your impact and ensuring that your contribution goes even further. This year, our goal is to raise $20,000 to cover the most essential items and we are reaching out to friends like you to help us get there! We are also pleased to report that the First Night Monterey Board of Directors will match your donation and all the donations we receive.

We invite you to use the form linked below to make a donation and join us in this meaningful endeavor. On behalf of the Board and Staff of First Night Monterey, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for your generous support. As we celebrate 32 wonderful years of bringing our community together on New Year’s Eve in Monterey and throughout Monterey County with our beloved "Art for All" outreach program, we are reminded of the transformative power of the arts in fostering creativity and connection. Together, let’s continue this vibrant movement and make a lasting difference in the lives of many!

Donate To Celebrate 32 Years of FNM!

DONATE TODAY AND MAKE A DIFFERENCE! THANK YOU!

First Night Monterey is a nonprofit charitable organization 501(c) and your donation may be tax deductible. You will receive a letter from First Night Monterey acknowledging your donation for tax purposes.

How Your Company Can Be a Sponsor at First Night Monterey

Contact Executive Director Ellen Martin for details by email or call the FNM office at 831.373.4778. Levels of Sponsorship and corresponding marketing opportunities vary. Let us find an opportunity that complements your company image and fits within your budget!

Your sponsorship is the key to keeping our award-winning programming affordable for all children and families.

First Night Monterey brings together people of all ages, races and backgrounds. Each year, thousands of people sample rock, jazz, folk and classical music. There have ben venues that introduced our community to a variety of dance styles, supplied opportunities to design and build masks, hats, and puppets. Each year participants see themselves, each other, and our community in a brand new way ... in an atmosphere electric with joy and hope.

Your support is needed now more than ever as we expand our outreach workshops, extend our celebration 'footprint', and plan for the next First Night Monterey celebration.

Thanks to the leadership and generosity of our past donors and sponsors, First Night Monterey has become a treasured family tradition. The New Year's Eve arts celebration showcases hundreds of talented visual and performing artists. Through our Outreach workshop programs, hundreds of young people work together under the guidance of professional artists to produce larger-than-life puppets, murals, original poetry, and more.

First Night Monterey has been honored by the following associations:
  • The Arts Council for Monterey County
  • The California Arts Council
  • First Night International
  • The Monterey County Herald
  • The Monterey County Weekly ('Best Community Event')
  • The Salinas Californian
  • The San Francisco Chronicle (#5 in article 'Ten Reasons to Visit Monterey County Now')