Giant MoonPie to Fall New Year's Eve in Mobile to the Sounds of The Commodores

MOBILE, Ala., Dec. 3, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Instead of celebrating in a "Brick House," Mobile will hit the streets in the Central Time Zone's premier New Year's Eve. The Commodores headline as Mobile rings in 2013, along with the MoonPie Drop, a laser show, and fireworks from atop the RSA BankTrust Building in Mobile Bay.

This year's free MoonPie Over Mobile celebration will start with a Mardi Gras-style parade at 7:30 p.m., featuring floats, bands and a few surprises. Afterwards, three stages of live entertainment will draw thousands of people downtown, creating a giant street party that will last into the New Year. The Commodores will perform on a main stage at St. Joseph and St. Francis Streets, while local and regional acts will perform on stages in Bienville Square and at Government and Royal Streets. Mobile's Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center and the History Museum of Mobile will be on hand offering children's activities. At midnight, eyes across the Central Time Zone will be on Mobile's Mardi Gras icon – the MoonPie. The 12-foot-tall electronic MoonPie will descend from the 34-story RSA BankTrust Building as the city welcomes 2013.

"The combination of the great entertainment, the uniqueness of the MoonPie Drop and an anticipated large crowd have the makings of one amazing evening," said Mobile Mayor Sam Jones. "Austal USA and other sponsors are making this possible and we are delighted that 20 media markets will be counting down the New Year live from Mobile, Alabama."

"Just like the Commodores song, making New Year's Eve plans is 'Easy,' just head to downtown Mobile for a fun and safe celebration to remember. Last year more than 60,000 people attended MoonPie Over Mobile and we hope to make it larger this year," said Mobile City Councilman Fred Richardson. Started in 2008, MoonPie Over Mobile gives locals and tourists a chance to experience New Year's Eve with a bit of Mardi Gras flavor.

"All eyes will be on Mobile this New Year's Eve," said Kent Blackinton, president of the Mobile Lodging Association. "Television viewers throughout the Central Time Zone can watch MoonPie Over Mobile live in a telecast on Raycom stations, but we would rather have you being part of the excitement."

For details, visit www.mobilenewyear.com

Media Contacts:
Barbara Drummond, Communications Director
City of Mobile
251/208-7807
[email protected]

SOURCE Mobile Bay Convention and Visitors Bureau