First Night First Day Boston 2018 (pictured): This free arts festival stretching from Boston Common to the Back Bay offers an early fireworks display for the little ones at 7 p.m. along with a parade, ice sculptures, live music and more, all capped off with a pyrotechnic display in Copley Square at midnight. The following day, enjoy more gratis events in that very same location.

Holiday Pops: The fun at Symphony Hall continues post-Christmas with a New Year’s Eve performance at 10 p.m.—which includes appearances from special guests as well as a cash bar and several dining options—from the beloved Boston Pops Orchestra.

Boston Baroque: The acclaimed ensemble comes to Harvard Square, serving up Bach’s Brandenburg Concerto No. 1 and Handel’s Water Music wrapped around an intermission featuring champagne and chocolates.

Top of the Hub: Always a grand affair, the black-tie gala (two seatings are available) at this high-flying Back Bay restaurant boasts an exquisite multi-course meal, live music and dancing, not to mention sweeping views of the nearby fireworks.

Kings: A Willy Wonka theme dominates at this adult playground that features bowling, billiards and more, so make your reservations for either a family-friendly afternoon session or a late-night slot for ringing in 2018 with flair to spare—pun intended.