Atlanta, GA, December 31, 2025
News Summary
Atlanta is set to revolutionize its New Year’s Eve celebrations with the introduction of ‘Countdown Over ATL,’ replacing the traditional Peach Drop. This innovative event will feature a digital drone peach countdown and awe-inspiring fireworks that can be seen from various neighborhoods across the city. Mayor Andre Dickens emphasizes safety, equity, and inclusivity as key components of this new celebration, which invites residents to enjoy the festivities from their own homes or local venues, fostering community spirit and engagement.
Atlanta will celebrate New Year’s Eve 2026 with an innovative new event called “Countdown Over ATL.” The traditional “Peach Drop” will no longer take place, marking a significant change in the city’s New Year festivities. This year’s celebration will feature a digital drone peach countdown accompanied by synchronized fireworks displays.
The drone displays will begin at 11:45 p.m. on December 31, 2026, and will be visible in Downtown, Midtown, and the north Westside of Atlanta. Upon reaching midnight, fireworks will launch from multiple locations throughout the city, creating a spectacular show lasting approximately 12 minutes. City officials are encouraging residents to watch the fireworks from their backyards, local rooftops, or neighborhood gathering spots.
To enhance the viewing experience, those with obstructed views due to trees or buildings are advised to support local businesses that offer elevated views. The event aims to foster inclusivity with a modern approach that brings together residents across the city, unifying Atlanta through shared experiences while reducing crowding.
Mayor Andre Dickens highlights the importance of prioritizing safety, equity, and access for all residents in this initiative. The “Countdown Over ATL” aims to create a signature midnight moment to be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of their location in the city. Various venues, such as rooftops and patios, will host special New Year’s Eve events leading up to the countdown.
As part of safety reminders, city officials advise keeping pets indoors during the fireworks and being considerate of neighbors who may be startled by the noise associated with the event. For any inquiries related to the celebration, residents can contact the city’s dedicated non-emergency line, ATL 311.
This initiative is part of Mayor Dickens’ broader vision for a more modern community celebration, reflecting a shift in how the city approaches New Year festivities. By embracing technology and innovative programming, Atlanta is poised to enhance public engagement and community spirit as the city welcomes the New Year.
Key Features of ‘Countdown Over ATL’
- Event Name: Countdown Over ATL
- Replacement for: Peach Drop
- Form of Countdown: Digital drone peach countdown
- Fireworks Start Time: Midnight, December 31, 2026
- Duration of Fireworks Show: Approximately 12 minutes
- Viewing Locations: Downtown, Midtown, North Westside, rooftops, patios
- Safety Considerations: Keep pets indoors, considerate of neighbors
- Contact for Inquiries: ATL 311
- Mayor’s Vision: Modern community celebration prioritizing safety and access
FAQ
What is the new New Year’s Eve event in Atlanta for 2026?
Atlanta will celebrate New Year’s Eve 2026 with a new event called “Countdown Over ATL.”
What will happen to the traditional Peach Drop?
The traditional “Peach Drop” will no longer take place.
What activities are part of the Countdown Over ATL event?
The celebration features a digital drone peach countdown and synchronized fireworks displays.
Where will the drone displays be visible?
Drone displays will be visible in Downtown, Midtown, and the north Westside of Atlanta.
What time will the drone show begin?
The drone show will commence at 11:45 p.m. on December 31, 2026.
What time will the fireworks start?
Fireworks will begin at midnight and will be launched from multiple locations across the city.
What are the safety recommendations during the fireworks?
Safety reminders include keeping pets indoors during the fireworks and being considerate of neighbors who may be startled by the noise.
How long will the fireworks show last?
The fireworks show will last approximately 12 minutes.
How can residents get more information about the event?
The city has a dedicated non-emergency contact, ATL 311, for questions related to the event.
Key Features Chart
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | Countdown Over ATL |
| Countdown Method | Digital drone peach countdown |
| Fireworks Start Time | Midnight, December 31, 2026 |
| Fireworks Duration | Approximately 12 minutes |
| Viewing Areas | Downtown, Midtown, North Westside, rooftops, patios |
| Safety Measures | Keep pets indoors, consider neighbors |
| Contact Number | ATL 311 |
| Mayor’s Vision | Modern community celebration with safety and access |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- Fox 5 Atlanta: New Year’s Eve Celebrations in Metro Atlanta
- Wikipedia: New Year’s Eve
- 11Alive: What You Need to Know for New Year’s Eve in Atlanta
- Google Search: New Year’s Eve events in Atlanta
- CBS News: Best Places to Watch New Year’s Eve Shows
- Google Scholar: New Year’s Eve celebrations
- WSBTV: Fireworks on New Year’s Eve in Georgia
- Encyclopedia Britannica: New Year’s Eve
- Rough Draft Atlanta: Atlanta NYE Celebrations 2026
- Google News: New Year’s Eve Atlanta celebrations

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.


