Tabor City, NC — January 2026
The Town of Tabor City welcomed the New Year in true Yam City style with the successful debut of its inaugural New Year’s Eve Yam Drop, a family-friendly celebration held at the Garrell Depot that drew more than 150 residents and visitors on a chilly December 31 evening.
As reported by the Tabor-Loris Tribune, the event featured free ice skating, hot chocolate, music, games, and a ceremonial “midnight somewhere” countdown at 8:00 p.m., making it accessible and enjoyable for families and children of all ages . The highlight of the evening was the official Yam Drop, with Spencer Sweetpotato, mascot of the North Carolina SweetPotato Commission, descending from Tabor City Fire Department’s Ladder 11 to mark the New Year.
The event was hosted by the Town of Tabor City and spearheaded by Promotions Director Dianne N. Ward, with community leaders and volunteers helping bring the celebration to life. Music by DJ Mitchell Strickland, pageant queens, and interactive activities such as cornhole and dart games added to the festive atmosphere, while families gathered to enjoy s’mores and capture the moment on camera .
Town officials are pleased with the strong turnout and positive response, viewing the Yam Drop as a promising new tradition that reflects Tabor City’s creativity, community spirit, and family-focused approach to public events.
📖 Read the Full Story
Residents and visitors are encouraged to read the complete article and view photos from the event in the Tabor-Loris Tribune: