Ring in the New Year: Towns County’s Guide to New Year’s Eve Celebrations
There’s a certain magic to watching the final moments of the year slip away while standing in the North Georgia mountains. The air turns crisp, stars feel brighter, and the lights along Lake Chatuge shimmer in the winter quiet. Whether your idea of the perfect New Year’s Eve involves fireworks reflected on the water, a cozy fireplace, or a full night of music and celebration, Towns County offers a setting worthy of the moment.
A Mountain Setting Made for New Beginnings
If you’re picturing a New Year’s Eve with mountain views, warm indoor gatherings, and a midnight toast surrounded by nature, you’ll feel right at home here. The pace slows just enough to let you breathe, reflect, and welcome what comes next.
Toast to Midnight: Dining & Celebrations
Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa – A Signature New Year’s Eve Gala
For those who want a full evening of elegance, Brasstown Valley Resort’s annual New Year’s Eve Gala remains one of the highlights of the season.
2025 Theme: Luau in the Mountains
A tropical-inspired celebration set against a lodge-style backdrop.
- What the Night Includes
- Open bar beginning at 7:30 PM
- Gourmet dinner buffet (7:30–9:30 PM)
- Live music and dancing
- Balloon drop & champagne toast at midnight
- Formal attire encouraged (no jeans; tie optional)
- 21+ event
Packages
- NYE Guest Package – $699/couple: Overnight stay, champagne and chocolates, gala, open bar, breakfast with Bloody Marys/mimosas.
- Party Only – $350/couple
Includes the gala and dinner, no lodging.
Reservations fill quickly.
Contact Eileen Rich at 706-379-9900 or erich@brasstownvalleyresort.com.
Lakeside Dining on New Year’s Eve
The Oaks Lakeside Kitchen – Elevated Dining With a View
Located at The Ridges Resort, this farm-to-table restaurant pairs fresh cuisine with floor-to-ceiling lake and mountain views. The space’s wood, brick, and iron accents add a warm, romantic feel, perfect for couples or small groups.
To reserve a table: 706-896-2262
Marina Station – Relaxed & Festive
Also at The Ridges Resort, Marina Station offers a more casual celebration with Southern gastropub dishes and roll-up garage doors that create an indoor/outdoor feel. Their expansive bar makes it an easy spot for a midnight toast.
Start the Day Right: Mary’s Southern Grill
Before the festivities begin or for a New Year’s Day breakfast, Mary’s Southern Grill in Young Harris serves classic mountain comfort food.
Open 5:30 AM–2:00 PM
The Main Event: Fireworks Over Lake Chatuge (FREE)
Date: December 31
Food trucks & parking: Open at 6:00 PM
Fireworks: 8:00 PM
Location: Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds
Admission: FREE
The annual New Year’s Eve fireworks are a favorite among families thanks to the early start time. Being right on the lake, the reflections make the show especially stunning. Bring blankets, chairs, and warm layers. It’s a beautiful but chilly evening.
Make It a Full-Day Mountain Experience
Before the celebrations begin, spend the day exploring some of Towns County’s most scenic spots.
Bell Mountain – Sunrise or Sunset Views
The Hal Herrin Scenic Overlook offers 360-degree views from over 3,400 feet. A memorable way to begin or end the last day of the year.
Winter Hikes
- Cupid Falls Trail
Gentle, family-friendly trail behind Young Harris College. - Lake Chatuge Trail
Flat shoreline walk with quiet winter scenery. - Brasstown Bald
Georgia’s highest point. On a clear day, winter views stretch for miles. (Check road conditions.)
Crane Creek Vineyards
Warm up inside the historic Bryson Farmhouse, fireplace, mountain views, and 14 wines to choose from.
Call for holiday hours: 706-379-1236
Where to Stay: Your New Year’s Home Base
Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa
A complete New Year’s destination: spa, horseback riding, golf, hiking, and of course, the gala. Spend the day exploring the grounds, get ready in your room, celebrate, and wake up to a champagne breakfast. Everything is in one place, no driving required.
The Ridges Resort on Lake Chatuge
Lakeside rooms with sunset views, nightly s’mores by the fire pit, two on-site restaurants, and a relaxing mountain-lake atmosphere. Rooms with views book early for the holiday.
Private Mountain Cabins
For those wanting a quieter celebration, cabins with fireplaces, full kitchens, and hot tubs are a popular choice. Imagine a private deck, cold winter stars, and a champagne toast with your favorite people. Book early, New Year’s availability goes quickly.
New Year’s Day: Reset & Recharge
Breakfast to Start 2026
- Mary’s Southern Grill – Early breakfast and hearty Southern classics.
- Brasstown Valley’s New Year’s Morning Buffet – Included for overnight guests, with mimosas and Bloody Marys.
Traditional January 1 Hike
Many visitors welcome the year with a walk or hike. Fresh air, quiet trails, and views that set the tone for the months ahead. Popular picks:
- Bell Mountain
- Arkaquah Trail
- Lake Chatuge shoreline paths
Planning Tips for a Smooth Mountain NYE
- Reserve early for dining, lodging, and the Brasstown Valley Gala.
- Pack layers- temperatures typically range from 20–40°F.
- Bring chairs/blankets for fireworks.
- Check weather and road conditions if visiting higher elevations.
- Allow extra travel time if coming from Atlanta, Chattanooga, Greenville, or Asheville.
Why New Year’s Eve Feels Different Here
Maybe it’s the mountains, holding the stories of each year. Maybe it’s the stillness of the lake under winter stars. Or maybe it’s simply the chance to celebrate somewhere that lets you slow down just enough to appreciate the moment.
Whatever the reason, New Year’s Eve in Towns County invites you to breathe, reflect, and step into the new year with intention.
Your Midnight Moment Awaits
Spend the evening dancing at a gala, watching fireworks over Lake Chatuge, or celebrating from the comfort of a cozy cabin. Between festive meals, lively events, and peaceful mountain scenery, Towns County has everything you need to welcome 2026 in your own way.
Here’s to new beginnings with mountain views, quiet moments, and the promise of a bright year ahead.