Give 2016 the old heave-ho at New Year’s Eve on Market Square, beginning at 9 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 31.
The family-friendly celebration to usher in 2017 includes music, midnight fireworks, a ball drop, an “Auld Lang Syne” sing-along and a new lighted “2017” sign. This year's celebration is presented by Lloyd's Electric Service, Inc.
“This is the night when Market Square feels most like Times Square,” says Judith Foltz, the City’s Director of Special Events. “The spirit is so festive. We always start the new year on a good note.”
The Temper Evans Band, of Harriman, will perform covers from 10:30 to 11:45 p.m.
A slideshow of memorable events from 2016 will screen above the Market Square stage. The countdown begins at 11:55 p.m., followed by the ball drop and fireworks at midnight.
The Holidays on Ice skating rink will be open 10 a.m.-10 p.m. on New Year’s Eve and 1-9 p.m. on New Year’s Day.
Restaurants on Market Square, including those participating in the Peppermint Trail, will be open and offering specials; call ahead for dinner reservations. No mobile food or alcohol sales will take place on the square.
Visit
www.knoxvilletn.gov/christmas for more details on New Year’s Eve on the Square and
www.downtownknoxville.org/holiday/peppermint for a list of Peppermint Trail participants. Parking is free at any downtown City-owned garages. The new public restroom facility in the Market Square garage is now open.