Although every First Night Worcester is spectacular, expect an even bigger and better celebration in 2016, as First Night Worcester celebrates 35 years since the event’s inception in 1981.

This year, First Night Worcester will offer a free mobile app that can be found on the iTunes App Store. It offers a complete schedule, information about events and links to the sponsors, venues and artists. With 60 performances, 12 venues and so much going on this year, you’ll need a little help!

With a First Night Button, you’ll get free admission to the EcoTarium, Museum of Russian Icons, Old Sturbridge Village, Salisbury Mansion, Worcester Art Museum and Worcester Historical Museum. Along with access to all of the historical hot spots, a First Night Button can get you a lift on one of the two First Night trolleys sponsored by Bay State Savings Bank and SG&D Insurance Agencies. They are a fun and easy way of getting around the city on this special night.

First Night Worcester will feature new acts and returning successes, including the wildly popular psychic mediums Joanne Gerber and Deborah Livingston at the Courtyard Marriot (72 Grove St.). Down the road, UniBank’s Kids Zone at Veteran’s Inc. (69 Grove St.) will kick off the night at Tuckerman Hall with Youth Affect, a Southeast Asian Coalition group sponsored by Saint-Gobain, performing cultural dances.

Jillian’s (315 Grove St.) is a new venue on the First Night Worcester scene this year, and it will host an eclectic line-up of artists (not to mention free pasta and a $10 game voucher with a First Night button). Expect critically acclaimed country folk singer/songwriter Grace Morrison, rising electropop act Shaded Glitch and the wholesome Kelly Girls Celtic band. For a jazzy night in the city, be sure to check out the artists at Ralph’s Rock Diner (148 Grove St.).

Once you’ve skated in front of City Hall and watched the awe-inspiring dancers, acrobats, magicians and musicians of the night, find your favorite little spot in the city and enjoy the fireworks being lit from atop Bell Hill, courtesy of Polar Beverages, as you enjoy the New Year with friends, family and the city of Worcester.

Buttons are $10 until Dec 25, $12 after Dec 25 and $15 at the door and free for children younger than 7. Information on purchasing buttons and the schedule of events can be found at firstnightworcester.org.

By Samuel Schonning