Dec. 31, 2007 - New Year's Eve Gatlinburg Style!

Gatlinburg will welcome the arrival of 2008 in grand style with its 20th Annual New Year’s Eve Ball Drop and Fireworks Show at the Space Needle late Monday night, December 31.

At the stroke of midnight on January 1, 2008, the Space Needle area will light up with a fireworks and music show produced by Pyro-Shows of LaFollette, Tennessee. The event is free to the public and will feature music and free party favors provided by Mr. Tablecloth near the base of the Space Needle. Performers from Hard Rock Café will entertain the crowd prior to midnight.

“It has become a tradition for families from across America to come back to celebrate the New Year here in Gatlinburg,” said George Hawkins, Special Events Manager. “We expect to have another big crowd to help us usher in 2008 with their family and friends.”

The highlight of the evening is the ball drop from the Space Needle, signifying the old year is over and a new one has begun. Then a fireworks show off the 342-foot structure will welcome the New Year in dazzling style.

The entire city of Gatlinburg celebrates New Year’s Eve in a big way with many restaurants and attractions offering special celebrations.

Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies offers a “Dance With the Sharks” party from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Only $109.99 per couple includes heavy hors d’oeuvres, champagne toast, fireworks on the Plaza (you can see the Space Needle from the Plaza), and two dance floors, one with an 8-piece band, the other with a DJ. Kids arrangements and programs are also available.

Blaine’s Restaurant is right in the middle of the fireworks area below the Space Needle and offers a champagne toast as well. It’s a local restaurant and bar with a big local crowd, a popular spots

Up on Mt. Harrison, Ober Gatlinburg is offering a New Years Eve special in its restaurant and lounge. For a $10 cover charge from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., they’ll have two bands performing through the night with hors d’oeuvres.

For information on other New Year’s activities, please call the Gatlinburg Chamber of Commerce at 800/568-4748.