RECAP: New Year’s Eve celebrations across West Tennessee

January 1, 2026

Ryan Brooks,

JACKSON, Tenn. — We have a recap of New Year’s Eve celebrations here in West Tennessee.

It’s the first of the year and many had a time last night celebrating to bring in 2026. Here in West Tennessee friends and family make sure to find the perfect place to bring in the new year.

Some celebrated in the early half of the night and others, of course, took a chance on midnight celebrations with fireworks, balloon drops, and even local breweries around the region.

Ritz Magic Wheels midnight balloon drop saw tons of prizes including the skate rental, 50 arcade credits, and a 2026 swag bag.

Hub City Brewing created a Hollywood glamour-style celebration with a lip sync battle and a midnight champagne toast.

Meanwhile, the Henderson County Chamber of Commerce hosted a New Year’s Eve countdown with a balloon drop, vendors, food trucks, and ice skating for the kids.

“Our kids really look forward to this event. We hype it up. I mean, who else does a balloon drop. Balloon drops are always so much fun,” said Kristina Anderson, executive director of Henderson Commerce and Tourism.

“It’s really cool because I’ve never been. I’ve never really seen an ice skating rink because obviously we don’t get enough snow here, and it’s not cold enough to have ice. It’s really fun that they do this for everybody,” said Troy Woods, balloon drop attendee.

It’s a night to spend with your favorite person, and be exactly where you want to be when the new year arrives.

Most take this time of year to share their new year’s resolutions and plans for 2026.

“My new year’s resolution is fitness–to get better fit, and get some muscle on my bones. I’m looking for a better mentality going through the day and having a good schedule; just being right,” said Jacob Groll, New Year’s Eve celebration guest.

For some it’s a time of reflection on family values.

“Spending more intentional time with loved ones. Being in the military I’m not always home that often. They give me that sense of peace that I don’t get,” said Kylee Brumbelow, New Year’s Eve celebration guest.

The is the first new year’s eve celebration in Jackson with fireworks legalized, and many enjoy the mural–style fireworks display show in downtown Jackson.

Many options for food and drinks were open late like franklin’s little bar, Chelle’s BBQ Soulfood, the Downtown Tavern, IHOP and Hardees. West Tennessee makes a great place to be to bring in the new year.