What started four years ago as a New Year’s Eve street concert with a fireworks show, has grown to a state-wide celebration that is the catalyst for other happenings around the area.  Corporate citizens, businesses, non-profits, and public entities have joined in the fun to host their own events during the Famously Hot New Year celebration.

The celebration offers attendees a unique way to ring in the New Year. Set at the footsteps of the picturesque South Carolina State Capitol, attendees will ring in the New Year with Southern hospitality. The celebration extends down Main Street and beyond, encompassing the huge, free #FHNY concert featuring The O'Jays with opening acts MisterWives and Lefty at the Washout and a midnight fireworks show, all hosted by WLTX's Darci Strickland and WCOS's Kelly Nash. Attendess will find a “comfort zone”seating area with regional food and drink, free parking, Alert Cab discounts, “Love Train” COMET shuttle service running exclusively for FHNY to and from 12 park-and-ride locations, and an indoor, ticketed VIP lounge with open bar, catering and exclusive parking. Guests also can enjoy the WOW New Year's Eve Carnival, the Main Street Crit footrace, Main Street Ice skating rink and special holiday hours at top attractions such as Riverbanks Zoo.

It has grown to be the largest free New Year’s Eve celebration in South Carolina and boasts the largest New Year’s fireworks display in the two Carolinas. Previous years featured concerts from nationally renowned musicians including George Clinton, the Wallflowers, ZZ Ward, and Kool & the Gang. In 2014, 26,000 people gathered on Columbia’s Main Street for an unforgettable, secure and exciting experience.