ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — If dropping a keg in Asheville or a gold nugget in Marion sounds unusual, the region offers plenty of other offbeat ways to ring in the New Year.

From quirky party themes to long-running local traditions, Asheville-area venues are again hosting an eclectic mix of New Year’s Eve celebrations for those looking to go beyond a standard countdown.

One of the area’s signature events, the New Year’s Eve Keg Drop at Thirsty Monk South in Biltmore Park, returns Dec. 31. Modeled after the Times Square ball drop, the event features a large golden keg lowered at midnight, followed by a communal toast to welcome the new year.

Several themed parties offer alternative takes on the holiday. Off the Wagon is hosting a cowboy-themed New Year’s Eve bash with dueling pianos, live music and a midnight ball drop. Downtown, Pack’s Tavern will turn back the clock with a Roaring Twenties-themed party featuring DJs and dancing across multiple floors.

For those who prefer to move between venues, New Year’s Eve bar crawls through downtown Asheville will connect multiple locations with DJs, drink specials and guided routes.

Some traditions, however, are firmly in the past. Brasstown’s Possum Drop, which once involved lowering a live opossum, ended years ago after criticism from animal rights advocates.

Live music and dance parties also dominate the New Year’s lineup. Periscope and Times Bar are planning a multi-room dance party and midnight toast, while venues across downtown and the South Slope are hosting themed music nights and countdown events.

Outside Asheville, Marion will again host its annual Gold Nugget Drop, a celebration of the town’s gold-mining heritage featuring live music, vendors and a midnight drop of a large replica nugget.

For a more refined evening, several venues are offering ticketed dining and experience-based celebrations. Several ticketed concerts are also planned for New Year’s Eve.

Ticketed concerts

New Year’s Eve with ELECTRO LUST – The Grey Eagle – A late-night blast of synth-driven funk and electronic groove. Expect ceaseless dancing, a bright stage, and a crowd that wants to move right through midnight.

Sneezy with Future Joy NYE Party | Asheville Music Hall – A mix of groove, brass and bass, Sneezy and Future Joy create a celebration you can’t help but join. A joyful, high-energy mashup of jam-band amusement and brass-infused dance music, you won’t want to miss this show.

Rae & The Ragdolls NYE Show | Jack of the Wood Pub – A cozy pub celebration with vintage-rock vibe and a friendly neighborhood atmosphere. Perfect if you want live music without the chaos of a huge venue.

The Avett Brothers | HCCA – The Avett Brothers generate a full-scale arena celebration encompassing heartfelt folk-rock, moving harmonies and a massive NYE countdown shared with thousands of fans.

Rock & Rave New Year’s Eve Party | Capella on 9 – A rooftop party mixing craft cocktails, city-skyline views, and a blend of traditional DJ beats with live rock. A stylish, social spot for a glamourous night on the town.

3WB | White Horse Black Mountain – A small-town New Year’s Eve show filled with seasoned musicians who intertwine expressive harmonies and storytelling. A relaxed, community-oriented show with a “pay what you can” cover at the door.

Ticketed experiences

New Year’s Eve | The Omni Grove Park Inn & Spa – A classic upscale celebration filled with elegant dining, polished live entertainment, glowing historic interiors, and a refined midnight toast for a luxurious night.

Winter Lights | The North Carolina Arboretum – A relaxing stroll through the NC Arboretum’s glistening garden pathways, complete with breathtaking winter lights, the Dambo trolls and more.

New Years Eve at The Silo Cookhouse | The Horse Shoe Farm Boutique Resort – An intimate countryside celebration featuring high-quality farm-inspired cuisine, a calm, candle-lit atmosphere, and a gentle way to welcome the new year.

New Year’s Eve Prix Fixe | Posana Restaurant Downtown – A sophisticated, chef-driven dinner crafted for the holiday — multiple thoughtful courses, attentive service, and a relaxed downtown setting for a polished evening out.

Together, the events reflect Asheville’s reputation for blending creativity, music and local character — even when the clock strikes midnight.