The first signs of First Night 2010 were showing up Wednesday in downtown Raleigh, ahead of the City's New Year's celebration.

Some tents were put up along Fayetteville Street, where much of the event will take place Thursday.

The celebration, which has typically attracted around 40,000 revelers, includes outdoor and indoor live music, art, dancing and other entertainment, along with the acorn drop at midnight.

This year, much of the event will take place on City Plaza, which opened a few months ago, and is designed for events where organizers can shut down Fayetteville Street and pack people in to celebrate.

"It's just going to be a beautiful backdrop," said Jackie Smith with Artsplosure, the Raleigh group that coordinates the event.

Local restaurants, including The Mint on Fayetteville Street, were planning on special menus and live music to attract customers for the evening.

"It's a great night for all restaurants," said Cara Zalcberg, managing partner at The Mint. "It's a wonderful evening for people to gather with family and friends, and downtown Raleigh is the perfect setting.

Buttons for the event are available at Harris Teeter and Rite Aid stores for $9 prior to the event. Organizers said buttons would also be available at the event at several locations along Fayetteville Street for $12.

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