Area Events Ringing in the New Year

As 2025 comes to a close, residents across North Georgia and Western North Carolina will have no shortage of ways to welcome the arrival of 2026. From lively parties and family-friendly attractions to faith-based gatherings, communities throughout the region are offering a variety of New Year’s Eve celebrations.

In Murphy, North Carolina, Chevelles Restaurant & Bar 66, located at 66 Hiawassee Street, will ring in the new year with all-night karaoke and a crowd-pleasing food special featuring $1 wings. Just down the road in Hayesville, The Hoke Poke Noodle Bar at 964 NC 69 will host a Seafood Fest from 5 to 8 p.m., encouraging guests to dress for the occasion as they enjoy a festive evening of food and fun.

Across the state line in Georgia, the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds in Hiawassee will offer a family-friendly option with a Drive-Thru Only Christmas lights experience from 6 to 9 p.m. Fireworks are scheduled for 8 p.m., giving visitors a chance to enjoy a dazzling display from the comfort of their vehicles. In Blairsville, Blairsville Social at 40 Earnest Street will host an Irish New Year’s Celebration beginning at 4 p.m., with the ball dropping at 7 p.m. to coincide with midnight in Ireland.

For those seeking a more reflective way to usher in the new year, several area churches will hold special services. First Free Will Baptist Church of Hayesville, located at 259 Tusquittee Street, will host a New Year’s Eve service beginning at 7 p.m., featuring Communion as congregants gather to mark the transition into 2026.

With options ranging from festive to faith-centered, residents of the region can find a celebration that suits their style as the calendar turns to a new year.