Atlanta, December 30, 2025
News Summary
Atlanta will introduce a dynamic New Year’s Eve event called ‘Countdown Over ATL.’ This celebration on December 31 will feature synchronized drone displays and fireworks, replacing the tradition of the Peach Drop. The event aims to enhance community engagement and safety by decentralizing the crowds, allowing residents to enjoy the festivities from various locations. Family-friendly activities will precede the event, ensuring a vibrant atmosphere across the city as residents welcome the New Year together.
Atlanta will usher in the New Year with a spectacular event named “Countdown Over ATL” on December 31, 2026. This celebration will feature drone countdown displays and synchronized fireworks at various locations throughout the city, including Downtown, Midtown, and the northwest side.
The event will kick off with the drone show starting at 11:45 p.m. on New Year’s Eve. At midnight, a digital drone peach will appear in the sky, followed by a stunning fireworks display that is expected to last approximately 12 minutes. This new event will replace the annual Peach Drop, a tradition that has been part of Atlanta’s New Year’s celebrations since 1989.
Mayor Andre Dickens expressed the city’s intention to create a modern, accessible celebration designed to bring the community together. City officials encourage residents to enjoy the festivities from various vantage points, such as rooftops, backyards, and local neighborhood spots. For those with obstructed views, they recommend visiting nearby businesses with elevated views for optimal fireworks enjoyment.
Local businesses may also host ticketed events on New Year’s Eve, providing additional opportunities for residents to celebrate in style. The event aims to decentralize crowds in Downtown while still offering a unified and festive holiday atmosphere throughout Atlanta.
In the lead-up to New Year’s Eve, various family-friendly activities are planned at locations such as The Roof at Ponce City Market and Zoo Atlanta. Other festivities will include themed parties, concerts, bar crawls, and dynamic dining experiences across the metro area.
City officials have also provided guidance for pet owners to minimize anxiety caused by fireworks. Recommendations include keeping pets indoors and using noise-reduction headphones or earplugs for those with sensitive hearing.
This new vision for the New Year’s Eve celebration in Atlanta seeks to reflect both modernity and tradition, ensuring that the community can come together for a memorable experience as they welcome 2027.
Key Features of “Countdown Over ATL”
- Event Name: Countdown Over ATL
- Date: December 31, 2026
- Location: Multiple locations across Atlanta (Downtown, Midtown, and northwest)
- Drone Show Start Time: 11:45 p.m.
- Fireworks Duration: Approximately 12 minutes
- New Tradition: Replaces the Annual Peach Drop
Event Planning
The city’s effort to decentralize crowds aims to enhance safety and accessibility while making the event enjoyable for all. Various local celebrations will be available leading up to and after New Year’s Eve, presenting a diverse range of options for Atlanta’s residents and visitors alike.
Safety Tips for Pets
City officials emphasize the importance of managing pets during the fireworks, advising owners to keep pets indoors and consider using sound-reducing solutions to help alleviate anxiety.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of the New Year’s Eve event in Atlanta in 2026?
The event is named “Countdown Over ATL.”
What will happen at midnight during the countdown?
At midnight, a digital drone peach will appear in the sky, followed by synchronized fireworks across the city.
How long will the fireworks display last?
The fireworks display will last approximately 12 minutes.
Chart of Key Features for Countdown Over ATL
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Name | Countdown Over ATL |
| Date | December 31, 2026 |
| Locations | Multiple locations across Atlanta (Downtown, Midtown, and northwest) |
| Drone Show Start Time | 11:45 p.m. |
| Fireworks Duration | Approximately 12 minutes |
| New Tradition | Replaces the Annual Peach Drop |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- 11Alive
- CBS News
- Fox 5 Atlanta
- Rough Draft Atlanta
- WSB Radio
- Wikipedia: New Year’s Eve
- Google Search: New Year’s Eve celebrations
- Google Scholar: New Year’s Eve
- Encyclopedia Britannica: New Year’s Eve
- Google News: New Year’s Eve 2026
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
