The Water Valley Crappie Drop brings the community together for an unforgettable New Year's Eve.
The charming town of Water Valley, Mississippi, is set to ring in the New Year with its fun-filled tradition, the Crappie Drop. Started in 2017, this quirky event now draws hundreds, featuring a giant metallic crappie and a unique ‘burning burdens’ ritual. Join the community celebration that honors local history and fosters inclusivity as everyone gathers to welcome the upcoming year together.
As the countdown to midnight approaches this December 31, the charming town of Water Valley, Mississippi, is set to welcome in the New Year with its beloved and quirky tradition: the Crappie Drop. This delightful festival has transformed from a humble gathering into a community spectacle that you’ll want to catch!
It all began in 2017, when a group of friends tossed around the fun idea of celebrating New Year’s Eve with a giant fake fish. What started as a quaint gathering of about 25 folks has exploded into a lively event that now draws an anticipated crowd of nearly 300 from all walks of life. Water Valley’s Pocket Park is the chosen spot for this festive drop, where smiles and excitement are in the air as the clock ticks closer to midnight.
What can you expect at the Crappie Drop? The highlight of the night is undoubtedly the enormous metallic crappie that will make its grand descent at the stroke of midnight. This isn’t just any fish; it’s a stunning creation with intricate steampunk designs, complete with moving fins and a bubble blower that adds to the magical atmosphere. The crappie pays homage to Water Valley’s heritage, drawing inspiration from the town’s rich railroad history, combining elements of a steam locomotive and a fish into one fabulous spectacle.
One of the most touching aspects of the Crappie Drop is the symbolic act of “burning burdens.” Attendees are encouraged to write down their grievances and toss them into a blazing fire, allowing them to release the weight of the old year and step into the new one with fresh hope. This ritual resonates with many and adds a profound sense of purpose to the evening’s festivities.
The Crappie Drop also holds a special significance as a tribute to Fred Bright, a local hero who caught the world’s largest recorded white crappie back in 1957 at Enid Lake. Thus, this annual event not only marks the New Year’s arrival but also celebrates local history and pride.
The Crappie Drop is open to everyone, fostering a wonderful atmosphere where neighbors meet and communities connect. This year’s event will see the Water Valley High School Homecoming Queen taking center stage as the ceremonial torchbearer, adding an extra touch of charm to the occasion.
After facing setbacks in 2020 and 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Crappie Drop is back in full swing, revitalizing community gatherings and bringing everyone together in a spirit of camaraderie and celebration. Event organizer and local artist James McCormick has worked hard to improve the experience year after year, ensuring that there’s always something new and exciting to look forward to.
Local leaders, including Mayor Tommy Reynolds, have pointed out how events like the Crappie Drop significantly enhance Water Valley’s visibility, allowing the community to shine bright in the eyes of visitors and locals alike. This celebration, marked by its warmth and inclusive spirit, is a perfect way to usher in the New Year.
For those eager to participate, RSVPs are encouraged, and if you can’t make it in person, worry not! You can catch the festivities live on the Water Valley Main Street Association Facebook page. Each year promises to bring new features and activities to keep the excitement alive, making the Crappie Drop a love letter to the past while also looking forward to an even brighter future.
So mark your calendars and prepare for a unique New Year celebration at the Water Valley Crappie Drop—it’s more than just a fish; it’s a cherished tradition that you won’t want to miss!
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