Downtown will ring in the New Year to the New Orleans sounds of The Dirty Dozen Brass Band.

That was among the news at yesterday’s Pittsburgh Cultural Trust presser on this year's Highmark First Night.

The family-friendly (and alcohol-free) Dec. 31 event will as usual feature more than 150 events and performances in 50-some venues Downtown (most located inside, in case you’re worried about the weather). The shows include music, dance, theater, comedy, magic, visual art, film and hands-on stuff for kids and adults.

Among the other highlights: Grand Marshalls for the First Night Parade on Penn will be Curt Woottan and Chris Preksta of hit web comedy series Pittsburgh Dad. Other musical performers throughout the evening include WYEP’s local band of the year, indie-folk duo Broken Fences. The Fire & Ice Plaza (ice sculptures and fire-arts performers) will be expanded. And the “extra-large jumbotron” by Penn Avenue’s mainstage will feature “live surprises throughout the night.”

First Night runs from 6 p.m.-midnight on Dec. 31. As usual, you’ll have full access for the price of a First Night button, whose price remains $8 in advance and $10 at the door. (Kids ages 5 and under are free.)

You can buy First Night buttons at area Giant Eagles, the Box Office at Theater Square, online or by calling 412-456-6666. The box office is at 655 Penn Ave., Downtown.

Certain seated events require vouchers acquired in advance to assure seating. (See the website to see which events require vouchers.) You can get vouchers online, by phone or at the Box Office.

First Night is also still seeking volunteers.