First Night Puppets Showcases at the Light of the Ozarks Parade 11/21

Before this year's event, DANCING INTO THE DECADE, to be held at the Northwest Arkansas Mall on New Year's Eve, some of First Night's most popular characters will be making a special appearance at this year's LIGHTS OF THE OZARKS lighting celebration on NOVEMBER 21, 2009.

First Night's giant puppets, built under the artistic guidance of local artist JO ANN KAMINSKY, were a popular attraction of the annual New Year's Eve event during the 10 years that the event was held on the Fayetteville Square. The giant majestic puppets transformed the square into a magical environment and fascinated parade goers. As First Night in Fayetteville moved to the Northwest Arkansas Mall for last year's event, organizers of the event struggled to find the perfect parade route for the popular puppets.

"As with all organizations that have been around for over a decade, we found we needed to explore new ideas that would allow our event to continue growing and attracting new audiences. We found the benefits of the Northwest Arkansas Mall venue added shelter from unpredictable weather, ease of parking, and security for our New Year's Eve revelers. We did, however, find that moving from the Fayetteville Downtown Square diminished our parade route options. First Night approached the Lights of the Ozarks planning team in hopes we would be a valuable addition to their already wonderful community event. They agreed and we now have a wonderful partnership. We also feel it is a tribute to our roots at the Fayetteville Square where we grew and thrived for so long." - Amy Robinson, Board President - First Night Fayetteville

After the Giant Puppet Parade on NOVEMBER 21, the First Night puppets will continue on to be an important part of New Year's Eve. Jo Ann Kamkinsky is creating a magical Giant Puppet Fairy Tale that will premiere at this year's event!

PHOTO/INTERVIEW OPPORTUNITIES
Jo Ann is currently conducting work-calls to repair and create puppets on Sundays at the NWA mall.
The November 21, 2009 parade will begin at 6pm.
find a common ground with people who had never before considered New Year's eve a family-friendly, community celebration of the arts. Last year's event helped start this expanded reach of the arts and the audience was another amazing representation of Fayetteville, Northwest Arkansas and surrounding States. Old friends and new.

We are working to incorporate the Fayetteville Square in other ways as it is a treasured aspect of our community and continue to be open to your thoughts and suggestions! We thank you for your patience and look forward to keep hearing from you:)
First Night Fayetteville buttons sales will launch the night of the parade and will be sold for 20% off the evening of the parade only. This is a special discount for parade attendees. 20% off ticket prices are $8.00 for adults and $4.00 for students (6-18 or with college ID) and seniors (aged 65+). Children 5 years and under are admitted free. This button allows unlimited access to all First Night in Fayetteville venues. Buttons go on sale November 21 at www.firstnightfayetteville.org, at the NWA Mall, and the Dickson Street Collier's Drug Store. Buttons will be 10% off between Thanksgiving and Christmas!

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