Lawrenceville Rings and Inaugural Ball

Saturday night marks the eighth annual Lawrenceville Rings New Year’s Eve bash.  This year, they are adding another element of magic to bring in the new year:  the inaugural Lawrenceville Ball.

Held at the top floor of the Lawrenceville courthouse, guests will be entertained by a 17-piece brass band, the Metro Jazz Club, as they dance, sip champagne and nosh on a light meal catered by Newk’s café.  This formal affair will lead up to a spectacular fireworks display on the Lawrenceville square when the clock strikes midnight.   To reserve your tickets, email lauren@visitlawrenceville.com or call (678) 226-2639. ($35 per person or $60 per couple.)

Before the crowning event, though, is an entire afternoon and evening of festivities.  The day starts at 3 p.m. and is a treat for the entire family.  The lawns of the square will host bouncy castles and a trackless train, as well as booths with confectionary delights.  Inside the historic courthouse children will be treated to face painting, mask-making, a special magic show and a puppet show, all for free. 

At 6 p.m. the children will experience their own countdown to the New Year, complete with fireworks. 

After the fireworks, people of all ages can take part in a scavenger hunt around the square.  A dozen or so merchants will take part, and participants will track down items in various shops with the aid of a map. 

“If you find all ten items,” explained Richard Snapp, Executive Director of the Lawrenceville Trade and Tourism Association, “bring it back to the visitor’s center and you will be entered into a raffle.”

Prizes include Gwinnett Braves tickets, family packs for Stars and Strikes, and other items. 

Abbey Road Live, a Beatles tribute band, and the Mike Rogers band will play during the festivities.  Most shops and restaurants on the square will be open past regular operating hours.  Many of the restaurants will have their own live music. 

“97.1 has partnered with us,” Snapp said, “and will have an emcee out there.  If it works out, one of the DJs will be counting down the New Year by the courthouse.”

Around 30 volunteers have worked on getting everything ready for tomorrow night's event.

“We have had tremendous support from the community,” said Snapp.  “Most of our sponsors are local folks.”

For more information, visit the Lawrenceville Trade and Tourism’s website or download a brochure of the afternoon and evening's events.