Atlantans were disappointed last year when the city’s on-again-off-again New Year’s Eve Peach Drop was off due to a shift in funding priorities. This year, the event, produced by Live Nation, is back in a big way.
The city announced Wednesday that Big Boi will headline the event at Underground Atlanta, with additional performances by Neon Trees, RES and other local artists. Two-time Emmy award winner, radio personality and Atlanta native Ryan Cameron will emcee the event.
“It is my pleasure to bring this beloved tradition back to the heart of Downtown Atlanta during its truly historic and transformative renaissance,” said Atlanta Mayor Dickens in a press release. “This event is a fun and exciting way for residents and visitors alike to ring in 2025 like only we can in the ATL.”
Credit: Natrice Miller / Natrice.Miller@ajc.com
Credit: Natrice Miller / Natrice.Miller@ajc.com
Big Boi, most known for his legendary rap career in OutKast and as a solo artist, most recently starred in the A&E series “Big RV Remix,” a renovation-based series in which he and his business partner, Janice Faison, renovate, redo and remodel trailers for small businesses and celebrities. All 10 episodes are also available on demand on Hulu.
Neon Trees, known for their catchy melodies and 80s-synth-pop-sound, will bring charisma to the stage, while vocalist RES, known for blending neo-soul, R&B and rock with characteristic grit and soul, will bring a taste of Philly to the celebration.
The traditional Peach Drop started in 1989 and was based on the famous ball drop in Times Square. It quickly became an iconic New Year’s Eve event in Atlanta as tens of thousands of people watched an 800-pound peach make its descent down a 138-foot tower.
In recent years, Peach Drops have been sporadic. The event was canceled in 2019 due to venue issues and was further disrupted in 2020 and 2021 by the COVID-19 pandemic. Last year, Mayor Dickens said another off-year was caused by the city prioritizing events celebrating the 50th anniversary of hip-hop.
The upcoming Peach Drop was secured in early October when the City Council signed a $650,000 agreement with Live Nation Entertainment to fund the festival. Past years have featured Atlanta rapper Ludacris, legendary R&B singer Little Richard, Ne-Yo, Janelle Monae, Miranda Lambert and more.
The 2024 Atlanta Peach Drop will take place on Dec. 31 from 4 p.m. to midnight at Underground Atlanta (50 Upper Alabama Street). This free admission event includes live music, arts, food and fireworks, culminating with the famous peach drop at midnight.
Staff writer Riley Bunch contributed to this report.
About the Author
