Is first annual correct to use?

Answer 1

Yes, if something is planned to occur annually, and this is the first time it will happen, it is perfectly correct to say "first annual."

This is absolutely wrong according to the rules of grammar and English. The first time you hold any event it is the "inaugural" and the next year would be the '2nd annual".

You intend for the event to take place a second time, but you aren't sure it will (life happens). You never know what might happen in a year.....safer to call the first event "inaugural".

Ask any grammar or journalism teacher.

Answer 2

It is more appropriate to say inaugural, as annual refers to a recurring event. Even if it is intended to recur, an event is not actually recurring until the second occurrence.

First annual is often rejected by newspaper and literary editors in favor of inaugural.