Atlanta, GA, January 1, 2026
News Summary
Atlanta has unveiled a new approach to its New Year’s Eve celebration, replacing the traditional Peach Drop with ‘Countdown Over ATL.’ This event features synchronized drone displays and fireworks that will be visible from local backyards across the city. Scheduled to start with a digital drone display shaped like a peach at 11:45 p.m., followed by a fireworks show at midnight lasting around 12 minutes, this innovative setup aims to enhance safety and accessibility for all residents. Mayor Andre Dickens emphasizes the importance of a modern celebration while ensuring the comfort of attendees.
Atlanta Shifts New Year’s Eve Celebration from Peach Drop to Drone Show and Fireworks
Atlanta has officially replaced the iconic Peach Drop at Underground Atlanta with a new event called Countdown Over ATL, marking this year’s New Year’s Eve celebration. This innovative approach utilizes synchronized drone displays and a fireworks show intended to be seen from various local backyards and neighborhood hotspots throughout the city.
Event Details
A digital drone display shaped like a peach will kick off at 11:45 p.m. on New Year’s Eve, leading into a citywide fireworks presentation at midnight, which is projected to last approximately 12 minutes. While the drone peach display will be most visible in the Downtown and Midtown areas, an additional drone spectacle is planned for the northwest side of Atlanta.
Mayor Andre Dickens has indicated that this endeavor aims to enhance the accessibility and safety of the holiday celebration by dispersing the crowds that traditionally gather at Underground Atlanta. The initiative is seen as a reimagining of the beloved Peach Drop, which has been a longstanding tradition since 1989.
Spectator Information
Residents are encouraged to enjoy the festivities from their own backyards, neighborhood locations, or elevated areas such as rooftops. City officials advise those with obstructed views to explore local businesses that may offer rooftop decks for a better viewing experience of the event. Detailed guidelines for the celebration indicate that pet owners should secure their animals indoors due to the potential anxiety caused by the fireworks. Furthermore, pet owners are reminded to ensure their pets have updated ID tags or microchips.
Safety Considerations
Recognizing that some individuals may be sensitive to loud noises, including those with PTSD or sensory sensitivities, residents are advised to take precautions such as wearing earplugs or noise-reducing headphones. Options for retreating to a quieter indoor space will also be available for those who require it during the display.
The fireworks show is scheduled and managed by licensed professionals. Residents are requested to refrain from calling 911 regarding fireworks unless it constitutes a genuine emergency. For general inquiries about the event, residents can contact ATL 311, with more information readily available on the city’s website, atlantaga.gov.
Conclusion
The transition to a decentralized celebration not only reflects a modern approach to festivities but also prioritizes the well-being and comfort of Atlanta residents as they welcome the New Year.
FAQ
What is replacing the Peach Drop in Atlanta for this New Year’s Eve?
The iconic Peach Drop at Underground Atlanta is replaced this year by “Countdown Over ATL,” a decentralized New Year’s Eve celebration.
What features does the Countdown Over ATL include?
The event features synchronized drone displays and fireworks designed to be visible from local backyards and neighborhood spots across the city.
What timing should residents expect for the drone and fireworks displays?
A digital drone display of a peach will begin at 11:45 p.m. on New Year’s Eve, with citywide fireworks following at midnight.
How long will the fireworks display last?
The synchronized fireworks display is projected to last approximately 12 minutes.
Where can residents view the festivities?
Residents can view the festivities from their backyards, neighborhood spots, or elevated spaces such as rooftops.
What safety measures are in place for pets during the fireworks?
The city has implemented guidelines for pet owners to secure their animals indoors due to anxiety caused by fireworks and has advised pet owners to ensure pets have updated ID tags or microchips.
What precautions should be taken for individuals sensitive to noise?
Individuals sensitive to loud noises, including those with PTSD or sensory sensitivities, are advised to use earplugs or noise-reducing headphones during the display, with the option to move to a quiet indoor space.
Who manages the fireworks display?
The fireworks display is managed and authorized by licensed professionals, and residents are asked not to call 911 regarding fireworks unless it is a genuine emergency.
How can residents get more information about the event?
General questions about the event can be directed to ATL 311, and more information can be found on the city’s website, atlantaga.gov.
Summary of Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | Countdown Over ATL |
| Replacement for | Iconic Peach Drop |
| Start Time | Digital drone display at 11:45 p.m. |
| Fireworks Start Time | Midnight |
| Fireworks Duration | Approximately 12 minutes |
| Viewing Options | Backyards, neighborhood spots, elevated spaces |
| Pet Safety | Secure pets indoors |
| Noise Sensitivity Precautions | Use earplugs or noise-reducing headphones |
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Additional Resources
- 11Alive: New Year’s Eve Atlanta Drone Show
- Fox 5 Atlanta: Countdown Over ATL
- CBS News: Best Places to Watch New Year’s Eve in Atlanta
- Rough Draft Atlanta: Atlanta NYE Celebrations 2026
- Wikipedia: New Year’s Eve
- Encyclopedia Britannica: New Year’s Eve
- WSB TV: Drones and Fireworks Help Ring 2026
- Atlanta News First: Drone Show and Fireworks
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.
