The party at the Festhalle
Instead of a ball drop, Helen lowers an edelweiss, the alpine flower that suits the village’s Bavarian look, at midnight. The Helen Chamber of Commerce hosts the evening at the Helen Festhalle, 1074 Edelweiss Strasse, and 2026 is its 13th year, according to the Chamber’s event page.
New Year’s Eve: Dropping of the Edelweiss
Published for 2026The 13th annual Dropping of the Edelweiss at the Festhalle: live music, dancing, party favors, heavy hors d’oeuvres and a champagne toast at midnight, with beer and wine for sale. Tickets are sold at the door only.
$30 per person; $15 ages 6-16; free under 6; pay at the door Source: Helen Chamber of Commerce (helenchamber.com)
Prices and tickets
| Who | Admission |
|---|---|
| Adults | $30 per person |
| Ages 6-16 | $15 per person |
| Under 6 | Free |
There are no advance tickets. The Chamber says to pay at the door when you arrive and that there is plenty of room.
What is included
- Live music and dancing
- Party favors
- Heavy hors d’oeuvres
- A champagne toast at midnight
- Beer and wine available to buy
The evening runs from 8:00 PM to midnight. For anything not covered here, the Chamber lists its number as (706) 878-1908.
Planning the night
Book a room in or near town; driving mountain roads after midnight on New Year’s Eve is best avoided. Our where to stay guide covers what is close to the Festhalle and the downtown area.
New Year’s questions
Is there a New Year's Eve party in Helen?
Yes. The 13th annual Dropping of the Edelweiss runs from 8 PM to midnight on December 31, 2026 at the Helen Festhalle, 1074 Edelweiss Strasse. Admission is $30 for adults, $15 for ages 6-16 and free under 6, paid at the door; there are no advance tickets.
Source: Helen Chamber of Commerce
Dates can change. The organisers have the final word: Helen Chamber of Commerce events
