Food & Novelty Applications Open Below!

On Thursday, December 31, 2026, downtown Raleigh will come alive as over 80,000 people celebrate the New Year as part of the 33rd edition WRAL First Night Raleigh Celebration presented by Artsplosure.  Activities will begin with the Children's Celebration from 2:00 – 6:00 PM along Fayetteville Street, near Morgan Street.  The Ferris wheel and an additional ride will open at 2:00 PM on Fayetteville Street near Hargett Street.  At 6:00 PM, the People’s Parade leads thousands down Salisbury and Fayetteville Streets to the Main Stage located in City Plaza for the Early Countdown, Acorn Drop, and Fireworks show at 7:00 PM.  Evening performances (from 7:00 PM to Midnight) will take placed along Fayetteville Street. The City Plaza Countdown to Midnight music will begin on the main stage at 6:00 PM leading up to 2027!  Festivities conclude at Midnight with the Raleigh Acorn Drop and Fireworks!

If you are interested in participating in this year’s event, please complete the application form and submit a photo of your setup with a $200 (food vendor) or $50 (novelty vendor) refundable deposit by 5:00PM on NOVEMBER 20.  Deposit payments must be paid by using the PayPal link found on the Artsplosure website (www.artsplosure.org/vend). Checks will not be accepted. This deposit ensures that vendors follow all rules and regulations regarding cleanliness and overall maintenance of downtown streets.  

Artsplosure reserves the right to reject any applications received after the 5:00 PM deadline. This application is not an agreement of acceptance to participate.  All applicants will be notified via email no later than November, 20 regarding their application status to First Night Raleigh 2027.