Ring in the New Year early, from 6 to 8 p.m., in downtown Southern Pines, Friday, Dec. 31.

Northwest Broad Street will be blocked off from Connecticut through Pennsylvania avenues. The public works department will close that section of Broad Street at 4 p.m.

This year's First Eve extravaganza features Talbert's Barbecue and entertainment from the Almost Perfect Band, DJ William Anthony, Happy Dan the Magic Man, Jingles the Clown, as well as Ruffles the Clown. There will also be face painting available.

Other activities and crafts for children will be hosted by Southern Pines Recreation.

The Almost Perfect Band hails from Moore County and plays country and classic rock tunes. Band members include Robert Enloe, vocals and guitar; Robbie Singletary, guitar; Matt Kuhn, bass, vocals; and Donny Stanley, drums.

Happy Dan the Magic Man specializes in bringing laughter to the heart of each child he meets.

For more than 30 years, this sensitive performer has delivered the international gift of laughter to children around the world. Parents love his genuine concern for each child and the pro-education messages that sneak into his shows.

The event -concludes with the countdown to the pine cone drop at 8 p.m.

First Eve is sponsored by the Southern Pines Business Association and the Southern Pines Recreation and Parks Department.

Other sponsors are FirstBank, Star 102.5, WLHC-FM Life 103.1, Whistlestop Press, Sandhills 3 TV, Fore Properties, McDonald Brothers, Connect NC and The Pilot.

Although not a part of the First Eve celebrations, Flynne's Coffee Bar, in downtown Southern Pines, is holding a musical extravaganza from 6:30 to 9 p.m., and other downtown restaurants and bars will also feature food and music.