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CHARLOTTE – Thousands of people flocked to uptown Charlotte Wednesday to celebrate New Year's Eve.

First Night Charlotte is highlighted by food, music and the ceremonial rising of the Queen City crown.

Police presence at the event will be large, as Chief Rodney Monroe explained at a press conference Tuesday. He said he has about 35 off-duty officers stationed at area hotels and restaurants to keep the peace.

He said a team of officers will be on every block to focus on "curfews and cruising."

"It is both concern for your wellbeing as well as what type of behavior you may be involved in," Monroe said. "We've found that if we work to enforce the curfew hours during these type of events that we're able to keep a level of public safety."

Children 16 years old and younger without a parent must be inside by 11 p.m.

Police are encouraging people to use public transportation.