Yes, they’re dropping a chicken, but don’t worry — no fowl will be harmed at the Chicken Drop New Year’s Eve Bash, set for Wednesday at the Gainesville Civic Center.

Sue Albright, part owner of JB Jams Entertainment and Events, said the bash will benefit the Humane Society of Hall County.

In addition to the deejayed music, local singer Dodi Pritchard will perform at the event, and partygoers can snack on hors d’oeuvres.

“We’re doing a balloon drop for cash and prizes. We made it after dinner time but there will be some snacks available and stuff,” said Albright. “Then, the champagne toast at midnight (and the) breakfast buffet.”

She said local businesses donated items like dinner for two for the balloon drop, which will take place shortly before midnight.

“A lot of folks  have been helpful along those lines in benefitting for the Humane Society,” Albright said.
The Humane Society will receive a portion of ticket sales, and monetary donations will be accepted at the event along with items like cat and dog food, blankets and toys.

Albright said JB Jams wanted to do something to benefit the Humane Society, so the company organized the “adult night out” so partygoers could stay in town. That’s because, as she said, “there’s not a lot in Gainesville for adults to do.”

“People like to do something and not everybody wants to travel all the way to Atlanta to go out and do something nice,” she said. “The most popular tickets have been tables, so people are bringing their family and friends that they normally spend New Year’s with.”

And as for the chicken, Albright said partygoers will have to wait and see.

“Our in-house folks are working on it now, so they’re putting the finishing touches on it, and they’re rigging to drop it from the ceiling,” Albright said.

Albright said exactly what the chicken will be made of is a surprise for the party’s guests, but “it’s very noticeable and we’re going to have a lot of fun.”

With balls, apples and peaches dropping in other cities on New Year’s Eve, Albright said “being that we’re here in Gainesville, we’re going to drop the chicken.”