Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is holding an open invitation to ring in the New Year amidst a kaleidoscope of colorful sea creatures. The downtown Gatlinburg attraction is hosting its annual New Year’s Eve celebration, Dec. 31 from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.
A widely popular event, the Aquarium’s count down to the New Year has sold out in advance each year. Director of Sales and Marketing for Ripley’s Aquarium, Joel Young, attributes the event’s success to the unique nature of the venue. “Where else can you celebrate the New Year while dancing with the sharks? Partiers can dance and eat throughout the aquarium, experiencing the exotic life while enjoying all the great entertainment and festive decorations.”
The Aquarium will feature entertainment by Kevin McGuire and the Band of the Smokies and a disc jockey. Hors d’oeuvres will be served all evening and a complimentary champagne toast will be enjoyed by all at the stroke of midnight.
“We also have a party designed just for children,” said Young. “Kids can play games, make crafts, eat pizza, limbo and dance the night away.”
There are other New Year’s Eve Celebrations in the Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge area. The Country Tonite New Year’s Eve Show and New Year’s Eve with Matt Cordell are also available.