TIFTON — Tift County’s own Gnat Drop celebration will be making a return this year to help celebrate the turn of 2024.

The local New Year’s Eve celebration is scheduled to be held once again at the American Legion Fairgrounds this year, inviting residents to count down the new year in a way only Tift County can.

Originally relocated to the fairgrounds in 2023 after concerns of inclement weather, organizer and county commissioner Melissa Hughes is confident that the Gnat Drop has found a new home at Post 21 and excited to bring the celebration out in full swing this year.

While the party guests count down the hours and minutes, they’ll be treated to live entertainment from performers like the Northside Baptist Church Praise Band, Mood Doctors, Music Solution, county commissioner Donnie Hester, and Kacey King.

And though Hughes is confident that this year’s countdown will dodge the closing minutes of the Georgia football game, she’s arranged to have a big-screen TV displaying the full game for attendees to enjoy.

The 2023 Gnat Drop will begin at 6 p.m. Dec. 31 at the American Legion Fairgrounds, Post 21. For more information, contact Melissa Hughes at (229) 326-0241.