MEMPHIS, Tenn. (localmemphis.com) – The turnout for New Year’s Eve on Beale Street is expected to be in the thousands. Beale Street restaurants and bars can’t wait to welcome all those people for New Year’s Eve, Memphis style. This year will also bring a new tradition of a mirror ball raising to ring in the new year instead of the iconic guitar drop.
Jay Wells, senior manager at Silky O’Sullivan’s, said this is a wonderful time of year, and he’s excited to see the new mirror ball rise as the New Year strikes at midnight. The mirror ball will be at the heart of Beale at the intersection of B.B. King and Beale.
“There’s going to be a DJ, the ball will rise, and I just can’t wait. It’s going to be exciting,” Wells said.
The Memphis Police Department is reminding people to not bring weapons and to have a sober driver if you don’t ride share. Lucille Catron, Executive Director of Beale Street Development Corporation, said safety will be a priority, so everyone can have a good time.
“Like they did for Memphis in May, the alleyways covered. There’s going to be a lot of security and undercover officers,” Catron said.
Only people 21 and up will be allowed on Beale after dark, and you will need a valid ID to prove your age. There won’t be a cover charge to get on the street, but many of the bars will have a cover charge.
“It’s going to be extremely busy, get here early, get a good parking place, Uber if you can, and just be prepared to have a wonderful time here on Beale Street,” Wells said.