A NOTE TO OUR READERS:
"Hot Spots for a New Year" is from the Home for the Holidays 2007 issue of Southern Living.
Because prices, dates, and other specifics are subject to change, please check all
information to make sure it's still current before making your travel plans.
Get that confetti ready, pop the cork, and pucker up to blow your own
horn, because it's time once again to plan your New Year's bash. The
possibilities are endless in the South, from watching fireworks to
taking a cruise to hibernating in a fine hotel. Here are some excellent
Southern selections for saluting the year's last day and the beginning
of the next 365.
Charleston, South Carolina—Marion Square
A family-friendly activity takes place at the downtown square annually
with the "Happy New Year, Charleston!" event. Admission is free and
includes dancing, music, street performances, children's activities, and
more. Visit www.charlestoncvb.com for times and events.
Asheville, North Carolina—Biltmore
Enjoy the beautiful Biltmore estate—all dressed up for the
holidays—by taking a candlelight tour of the mansion. Follow with
dinner (reservations only in the fabulous Stable Café), and then lay
your weary head down in a luxurious room of your own at the Inn on
Biltmore Estate; www.biltmore.com or 1-800-411-3812.
St. Louis, Missouri—The Gateway Arch
One if by land, two if by riverboat. Come on down to The Gateway Arch,
and take a 3½-hour dinner cruise, which includes entertainment and a
Champagne toast at midnight ($75); www.gatewayarch.com or
1-877-982-1410.
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma—Downtown
Catch the city's annual Opening Night celebration, which features some
of Oklahoma's best musicians, dancers, and performers. A mere $8 in
advance ($10 day of the event) pays your way to listen to the music all
night long; ages under 5 are free. For more information visit
www.artscouncilokc.com, or call (405) 270-4848.
Orlando, Florida—Disney World
The Magic Kingdom sets the stage for a spectacular send-off for 2007.
Fireworks explode with great pomp and circumstance from behind
Cinderella Castle. You'll see extra-special pyrotechnics at the Wishes
nighttime spectacular; www.disneyworld.com or (407) 939-6244.
New Orleans, Louisiana—French Quarter
Stay at The Windsor Court Hotel, where the lobby turns into a seasonal
wonderland each year; www.windsorcourt
hotel.com or 1-888-596-0955. On
New Year's Eve, watch the gumbo pot drop over the Jax Brewery roof, and
enjoy live music and fireworks; www.neworleansonline.com.
Nashville, Tennessee—Gaylord Opryland Resort
And Convention Center
Bask in the glow of A Country Christmas, starring the Radio City
Rockettes; a frozen wonderland called ICE! featuring How the Grinch
Stole Christmas by Dr. Seuss; and the Masquerade Gala on New Year's Eve.
Especially not to be missed: the 2 million Christmas lights that put the
Griswolds to shame; www.gaylordhotels.com/gaylordopryland or
1-888-999-6779.
