If you were planning to head to Atlanta for the Peach Drop or Dahlonega for its big First Night celebration, make other plans. Both cities have canceled their New Year’s Eve celebrations because of the current COVID surge.
The organizing committee for First Night Dahlonega says theirs was a difficult decision but one they had to make in the interest of public health.
“First Night Dahlonega is simply unable to manage the COVID 19 recommendations by the CDC and do not want to put our attendees, musicians, artists and volunteers at risk for contracting this highly contagious strain of the virus,” a notice on the event website states.
Compounding organizers’ disappointment is the fact First Night Dahlonega is a fundraiser for Jeremiah’s Place which provides transitional housing for homeless families in Lumpkin County.
“As we look ahead to this upcoming year, we fully intend to come roaring back, and we will begin our plans in early 2022 to make next year’s event spectacular,” the committee says.
Atlantans, too, are looking ahead to next year after the city canceled the popular Peach Drop at Underground Atlanta. This is the third straight year the event has been canceled – this year and last because of COVID and in 2019 over planning issues.
“While we are saddened to miss this year’s party and musical acts, we are very excited to bring the Peach Drop back next year and better than ever. Stay healthy everyone!” Underground Atlanta posted to Instagram.
Even as these and other events fall by the wayside, the city of Helen in White County still plans to hold its annual Dropping of the Edelweiss. The admission-only event at the town’s Festhalle is billed as a family-friendly evening of music, dancing, food, and fun.
For a list of New Year’s Eve events happening in and around Habersham, click here.
