Atlanta, GA, January 1, 2026
News Summary
Atlanta marked a new era in its New Year’s Eve celebrations with the launch of Countdown Over ATL, replacing the iconic Peach Drop. The event featured a stunning drone show and synchronized fireworks aimed at decentralizing the crowds for improved public safety. While some attendees were disappointed with visibility, many enjoyed the festivities from various vantage points. Mayor Andre Dickens highlighted the event’s goal of inclusivity and community engagement, promoting local businesses for better viewing options.
Atlanta celebrated New Year’s Eve with a new format named “Countdown Over ATL,” which replaced the traditional Peach Drop for the first time. The event featured synchronized drone displays illuminating the night sky with colorful patterns and concluded with a fireworks display at midnight.
The drone show commenced at 11:45 p.m. on New Year’s Eve, showcasing a digital peach projected over Downtown and Midtown Atlanta. Following the drone performance, fireworks were synchronized across multiple sites, lasting approximately 12 minutes. The event was designed to decentralize the large crowds that typically gather at Underground Atlanta, promoting public safety and engaging the community in a reimagined tradition.
Mayor Andre Dickens promoted the event, emphasizing its aim to make celebrations more inclusive and accessible for all residents. Some attendees expressed disappointment due to limited visibility in neighborhoods farther from the city center. However, many in Midtown enjoyed spectacular views of the fireworks from balconies and rooftops, sharing their experiences on social media platforms.
Despite the excitement, there were reports of attendees at the Jackson Street Bridge who felt let down when the show did not meet their expectations. City officials encouraged those with obstructed views to support local businesses that provided elevated viewing options. For those sensitive to loud noises, advice was issued to secure pets indoors and use noise-reduction headphones.
The “Countdown Over ATL” event is seen as a modern initiative to engage residents and foster a sense of community throughout Atlanta, showcasing a new era in the city’s New Year’s celebrations. City officials also provided information to assist local businesses hosting ticketed events for better viewing experiences, ensuring a more enjoyable celebration for all.
Event Highlights
- Name: Countdown Over ATL
- Replaced: Traditional Peach Drop
- Drone Show Start Time: 11:45 p.m.
- Duration of Fireworks: Approximately 12 minutes
- Mayor: Andre Dickens
- Purpose: Decentralizing crowds for public safety and community engagement
- Advice: Precautions for noise-sensitive individuals
Background Context
The annual Peach Drop has been a staple of Atlanta’s New Year’s Eve celebrations for many years. However, city officials aimed to evolve this tradition to better accommodate the needs and safety of the community. The introduction of drone technology in public celebrations marks a shift towards more modern and innovative events in Atlanta.
FAQ
What is the name of Atlanta’s new New Year’s Eve event?
Countdown Over ATL
What traditional event does Countdown Over ATL replace?
It replaces the traditional Peach Drop.
When did the drone show start on New Year’s Eve?
The drone show started at 11:45 p.m.
How long did the fireworks last?
The fireworks lasted approximately 12 minutes.
Who promoted the event?
Mayor Andre Dickens promoted the event.
What was one of the purposes of the event?
The program aimed to decentralize crowds typically gathered at Underground Atlanta, enhancing public safety and community engagement.
What advice was given to those sensitive to loud noises?
People sensitive to loud noises were advised to take precautions, such as securing pets indoors and using noise-reduction headphones.
Key Features of the Event
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Countdown Over ATL |
| Replaced Event | Traditional Peach Drop |
| Drone Show Start Time | 11:45 p.m. |
| Duration of Fireworks | Approximately 12 minutes |
| Mayor | Andre Dickens |
| Purpose | Decentralizing crowds for public safety and community engagement |
| Noise Precautions | Secure pets indoors and use noise-reduction headphones |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Atlanta Replaces Peach Drop with New Year’s Drone Show
DeKalb County Reports Surge in Flu Cases
Georgia Welcomes First Babies of the New Year
Record-Breaking Holiday Travel Expected at ATL Airport
Atlanta Launches Countdown Over ATL with Citywide Fireworks
Atlanta Introduces New Year Celebration ‘Countdown Over ATL’
Atlanta Replaces Peach Drop with Countdown Over ATL Celebration
Atlanta’s New Year’s Eve Celebration Features Fireworks and Drone Show
Metro Atlanta Weekend Events Highlight Culture and Entertainment
Atlanta Gears Up for Major Concerts in 2026
Additional Resources
- 11Alive: New Year’s Eve Atlanta Drone Show Locations
- Wikipedia: New Year’s Eve
- CBS News: Atlanta New Year’s Eve 2025
- Google Search: Atlanta New Year’s Eve
- Fox 5 Atlanta: Countdown Over ATL Celebration
- Encyclopedia Britannica: New Year’s celebrations
- Rough Draft Atlanta: New Year’s Day Dining
- Google News: Atlanta New Year’s event
- AJC: Watch Out New Year’s Partygoers
- Google Scholar: New Year’s Eve celebrations in Atlanta
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.
