Atlanta GA, December 30, 2025
News Summary
Widespread Panic kicked off their New Year’s Eve run at The Fox Theatre in Atlanta with a special guest, Billy Strings. The two collaborated during the second set, offering fans a unique blend of rock and bluegrass. The concert featured a dynamic setlist that included fan favorites and covers from iconic artists. Widespread Panic’s high-profile collaborations are a highlight of their annual shows, with both remaining nights sold out, showcasing their loyal fan base.
Atlanta, GA – Widespread Panic launched their three-night New Year’s Eve run at The Fox Theatre in Atlanta on December 29, 2025, featuring a special guest appearance by renowned bluegrass musician Billy Strings during the second set of the concert. This marked the fourth collaboration between Billy Strings and Widespread Panic, having previously performed together in 2019, 2021, and earlier in 2025.
Fans were excited to see Strings join the stage midway through the second set, where he played electric guitar alongside Widespread Panic frontman John Bell and guitarist Jimmy Herring. Strings expressed his enthusiasm on social media, referring to the band as “fkn love you fellers,” accompanied by a high-five emoji on Widespread Panic’s post of their setlist.
The concert opened energetically with Bloodkin’s “Let’s Get Down to Business.” The first set consisted of both original tracks and covers, with originals including “Makes Sense to Me,” “One Arm Steve,” and “Little By Little.” Covers during this set featured classic songs such as Neil Young’s “Walk On,” Vic Chesnutt’s “Sleeping Man,” and “Aunt Avis.” The first set came to a conclusion with Widespread Panic’s own “Rebirtha” and “Conrad.”
The second set began with “Little Kin” and also included fan favorites like “Machine” and “Barstools and Dreamers,” which had a special interpolation of Sly and the Family Stone. Billy Strings showcased his talents with featured songs such as Robert Johnson’s “Stop Breakin’ Down Blues” and collaborative performances of “Fishwater” and “Surprise Valley.” The second set culminated in an exhilarating performance of “Blackout Blues,” noted for the dynamic interaction between Strings and the band members.
For the encore, Strings returned to the stage to perform The Dillards’ “There Is a Time,” concluding the night with Buffalo Springfield’s iconic “Mr. Soul.” This concert contributes to Widespread Panic’s tradition of high-profile collaborations during their New Year’s Eve shows, which are a staple of their concert schedule.
Tickets for the remaining New Year’s Eve concerts on December 30 and 31, 2025, are sold out, demonstrating the band’s strong following and the popularity of their live performances. Widespread Panic is known for their engaging and elaborate live shows, often characterized by musical conversations that celebrate their extensive catalog.
FAQ
When did Widespread Panic’s New Year’s Eve run begin?
Who made a guest appearance during the concert?
How many times have Billy Strings and Widespread Panic collaborated?
What was included in the first set of the concert?
What was the setlist highlight of the second set?
Key Features of the Event
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Location | The Fox Theatre, Atlanta |
| Performance Dates | December 29, 30, and 31, 2025 |
| Special Guest | Billy Strings |
| Setlist Highlights | Let’s Get Down to Business, Makes Sense to Me, Rebirtha, Stop Breakin’ Down Blues, Blackout Blues |
| Ticket Status | December 30 and 31 concerts are sold out |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Widespread Panic Welcomes New Year with Concert in Atlanta
First Friday Food Fest Returns to Atlanta
Atlanta Offers Free Halloween Celebrations for All Ages
Atlanta Welcomes Family-Friendly Halloween Season with Events
Chef G. Garvin Explores Savannah’s Culinary Treasures
Clark Atlanta University Achieves Top Rankings Among HBCUs
October Events to Enjoy Across Georgia
Weekend Events in Atlanta: Festivals and Fun Await
Widespread Panic Announces New Year’s Concert Series in Atlanta
Widespread Panic Announces New Year’s Eve Concert Series in Atlanta
Additional Resources
- Jambands: Billy Strings Goes Electric with Widespread Panic
- Live For Live Music: Widespread Panic and Billy Strings New Year’s in Atlanta
- JamBase: Widespread Panic and Billy Strings Atlanta Performance
- Jacksonville.com: Jacksonville Concert Calendar 2025-2026
- JamBase: Widespread Panic and Billy Strings Chicago Setlist
- Wikipedia: Widespread Panic
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Billy Strings
- Google Search: Widespread Panic concerts 2025
- Google News: Widespread Panic Billy Strings
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.
