Giant M&M Drop To Ring In The New Year In Hackettstown

HACKETTSTOWN, NJ — While many eyes will be on New York City this weekend to see the classic ball drop, one community in Warren County is starting a new—and far sweeter—New Year's Eve tradition.

Hackettstown is gearing up for its inaugural New Year's Eve celebration, complete with an M&M's lentil drop at midnight.

This year's festivities will take place in the heart of Hackettstown at the intersection of Main Street and Grand Avenue from 9 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., officials said.

“Mark your calendars, because on December 31, 2023, Hackettstown will come together to ring in the new year,” said Hackettstown Police Department Lieutenant Darren Tynan. “This free event is open to all, and we can't wait to share this memorable night with you. It is sure to be the highlight of the holiday season.”

Hackettstown is home to the famous Mars Wrigley Confectionery, where they produce some of America's favorite candies, including M&M's, Skittles and Starburst.

Mars Wrigley opened in Hackettstown in 1958 and has a large local presence (the town even features M&Ms on the "Welcome to Hackettstown" sign).

“It's very exciting to be able to have our residents and visitors come together to witness the largest M&M ever falling from the sky to ring in the new year,” said Mayor Jerry DiMaio.

The following road closures will be in place from late Dec. 31 into Jan. 1:

• Main Street (Route 46) between West Plane St. and liberty Street
• West Moore Street between Main Street and Washington Street
• East Moore Street between Main Street and Sharp Street
• High Street (Route 517) between Main Street and Franklin Street
• Grand Avenue between Main Street and Washington Street

From 6 p.m. on Sunday until 1 a.m. on Monday, the following streets will be no-parking zones:

• Main Street (Route 46) between Church Street and Liberty Street
• Liberty Street between Main Street and Franklin Street
• Franklin Street between Liberty Street and High Street

Any vehicles parked in the no-parking zones will be ticketed and towed, police said.

Attendees are urged to park for free in municipal spaces and side streets during the event.

Porta-Johns will be available in Municipal Parking Lot #1, which is located between High and Liberty Streets.

According to the police, alcoholic beverages are not permitted in public. There will be additional police officers and crossing guards assigned to the event.

“If anyone sees something suspicious or that does not look right, tell a police officer or call 911 immediately," Tynan said.

An M&M character will be on hand as part of the Sunday night celebrations, along with live entertainment and various giveaways. TSA cheerleaders will also be performing from 9 to 10 p.m., officials said.

"Over the past decade, Hackettstown has become a destination not only for residents of Warren County, but our whole state and region. From their top-ranked restaurants to popular breweries, Hackettstown has something for everyone. This new event promises to be an exciting way to ring in the new year. Warren County is lucky to be home to Mars, Incorporated and appreciates their continued partnership,” Warren County Commissioner James R. Kern III said.