New Year’s Eve is officially upon us, and there are plenty of ways to celebrate. From creative drops to parties to concerts, Mississippi is full of New Year’s Eve events. Here’s a short list of our favorites.
Bay St. Louis Oyster Drop
While it’s not Times Square in New York City, there are a handful of local drops taking place across the state. For the fifth year in a row, officials in Bay St. Louis will drop a giant oyster to mark the turn of the calendar. On top of the giant oyster being dropped from the top of 200 North Beach Restaurant and Bar, Chee-Whiz will take the stage as fireworks and other pyro effects begin at 7 p.m. We suggest getting there early as thousands are expected to line the streets of downtown Bay St. Louis.
More information can be found here.
Pascagoula Anchor Drop
100 miles east of Bay. St. Louis, crews in Pascagoula are ready to continue a New Year’s Eve tradition of their own. For the second year in a row, a giant, lighted anchor will be dropped from the City Centre building at 3207 Magnolia Street. The event begins at 8 p.m., with the music slate including Mississippi Moonlight and Kings of Neon. A light show will also be on display all evening.
More information can be found here.
Hal & Mal’s Catfish Drop
The state’s longest-standing New Year’s Eve drop takes place in the capital city as the crystal catfish will descend from the top of Hal & Mal’s at exactly midnight. The night will kick off with a three-course meal at 5:30 p.m., followed by the Catfish Ball at 8 p.m. Ticket prices to the ball are $20 before Tuesday and $25 the day of.
More information can be found here.
Hub City Sign Drop
Huge crowds are expected to help usher in the New Year in Hattiesburg. Over 10,000 revelers hung out to see the Hub City sign drop at midnight last year, and the crowds are encouraged to return yet again. Several downtown restaurants have extended their hours and are offering a VIP experience. Activities for kids will take place in Pocket Museum Alley with a Confetti Countdown balloon pop at 8 p.m. Musical acts include DJ Kujho, Five Mile Brass Band, and Holley Rumbarger.
More information can be found here.
The Drop on Government Street
The party in downtown Ocean Springs begins at 8 p.m. with a ball lit with LED lights being dropped 60 feet at midnight. Music acts include Red and the Revelers and 1 Accord.
More information can be found here.
Tupelo New Year’s Eve Party
Tupelo New Year’s Eve Party is returning for another year with a diverse lineup of acts setting up on stages downtown. BankPlus KidsFest gets the night started as the fun will continue with music, fireworks, and a ball drop. Entertainment acts include DJ Gucci Girl, Soul Shockers, 8 South band, Memphis Jones Trio, Shotgun Billys, and Peabody Rocket.
More information can be found here.
Crappie drop in Water Valley
Dropping fish in Mississippi seems to be turning into a theme. The city of Water Valley will drop a seven-foot metal crappie at midnight but not before a night full of food and entertainment. The event takes place at The Pocket Park on Main Street.
More information can be found here.
Noon Year’s Eve at Mississippi Children’s Museums
If you have kids, this event is perfect. Hosted at the Mississippi Children’s Museums in Jackson and Meridian, Noon Year’s Eve will feature confetti cannons, a traditional style countdown, and a balloon drop to mark the end of the museums’ annual holiday event. Taking place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., the event is free for museum members and $10 for others.
More information can be found here.
