Atlanta, Georgia, December 24, 2025
News Summary
Atlanta, Georgia has been ranked as the 14th best city to celebrate New Year’s Eve according to a WalletHub survey. The survey evaluates multiple factors across 100 U.S. cities, considering entertainment options, safety, and costs. Atlanta excelled particularly in entertainment and food availability, securing a fifth-place ranking in these categories. The city’s affordable hotel options and excellent safety scores add to its appeal for festive celebrations. In 2026, Atlanta will introduce a new event called ‘Countdown Over ATL’ to replace the historic Peach Drop.
Atlanta, Georgia has been ranked as the 14th best city in which to celebrate New Year’s Eve according to a WalletHub survey released in December 2024. This survey analyzes various factors across 100 U.S. cities to determine the best locations for New Year’s celebrations. The rankings focus on aspects such as entertainment options, safety, costs, and accessibility.
Orlando, Florida topped the list as the best city for New Year’s Eve celebrations. Atlanta’s performance in the survey was notably strong in several categories, particularly in entertainment and food availability, where it ranked fifth among the cities assessed. This reflects the city’s rich cultural offerings and vibrant nightlife that draw both locals and visitors during this festive period.
Concerning costs, Atlanta received a score of 36, with this metric encompassing hotel and meal prices. On the affordability front, the cost of three-star hotel rooms in Atlanta was tied for the second-lowest in the survey, sharing this position with El Paso, Texas. The cheapest hotel available in Atlanta on the night of the survey was priced at $59 per night, conveniently located on Paces Ferry Road near Truist Park and Cumberland Mall. This affordability factor makes it accessible for a large number of individuals looking to celebrate the New Year in the city.
Regarding safety, Atlanta scored an impressive 88 for safety and accessibility, indicating a relatively secure environment for those engaging in New Year festivities. This strong score is vital as it reassures both residents and tourists about their safety during the celebrations.
In comparison to other cities, Atlanta outperformed several locations, including Glendale, Arizona; Memphis, Tennessee; Fresno, California; and Baton Rouge, Louisiana, which ranked lower in the overall assessment.
Analysts have indicated that celebrating New Year’s Eve in the appropriate city can create a magical experience, highlighting cities that feature clear skies, excellent fireworks displays, abundant dining options, vibrant nightlife, and diverse activities. Atlanta offers all these traits and is set to provide numerous parties and celebrations for residents and visitors alike as they usher in 2025.
Among Atlanta’s New Year traditions is the historic Peach Drop that had been celebrated since 1989. However, this year marks a significant change; the Peach Drop will not occur in 2026. Instead, the city will host a new event called “Countdown Over ATL,” which aims to enhance inclusivity and accessibility. Mayor Andre Dickens announced that this new celebration plans to decentralize the festivities across the city rather than concentrating solely on Underground Atlanta.
Countdown Over ATL will feature a 12-minute activation with festivities that will be visible from Downtown and Midtown. Specific rooftop locations will be available for those with obstructed views to enjoy the celebration, with more details to be posted on the city’s official website. As Atlanta prepares for this transition, it looks to foster a more engaging environment for all its residents.
FAQ
1. What rank did Atlanta achieve for New Year’s Eve celebrations in the WalletHub survey?
Atlanta, Georgia has been ranked as the 14th best city in which to celebrate New Year’s Eve according to a WalletHub survey released in December 2024.
2. Which city was named the best for New Year’s Eve celebrations?
Orlando, Florida topped the list as the best city for New Year’s Eve celebrations.
3. How did Atlanta perform in the categories of entertainment and food availability?
Atlanta’s performance in the survey was notably strong in entertainment and food availability, ranking fifth out of 100 U.S. cities.
4. What was Atlanta’s score for overall costs in the survey?
Atlanta received a score of 36 for overall costs, which encompass hotel and meal prices.
5. How did Atlanta score in safety and accessibility?
Atlanta scored an 88 for safety and accessibility.
6. What is the cheapest hotel rate found in Atlanta during the survey?
The cheapest hotel in Atlanta on the night of the survey was priced at $59 per night, located on Paces Ferry Road near Truist Park and Cumberland Mall.
7. What is the new event replacing the Peach Drop in 2026?
The Peach Drop will not occur in 2026; instead, the city will host a new event called “Countdown Over ATL.”
Key Features
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Overall Ranking | 14th best city for New Year’s Eve celebrations |
| Top City | Orlando, Florida |
| Entertainment and Food Availability Rank | 5th out of 100 U.S. cities |
| Overall Costs Score | 36 |
| Safety and Accessibility Score | 88 |
| Cheapest Hotel Rate | $59 per night |
| New Years Event in 2026 | Countdown Over ATL |
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Additional Resources
- AJC: Where to Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Metro Atlanta
- Wikipedia: New Year’s Eve
- Atlanta Parent: Kid-Friendly New Year’s Eve in Atlanta
- Google Search: New Year’s Eve celebrations
- Eater Atlanta: Best Restaurants for New Year’s Eve
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.
