Perry’s Buzzard Drop Explained
Perry, Georgia didn’t set out to invent a quirky New Year’s Eve tradition. It started with a very practical headache: migrating buzzards loved our water towers. Each season, flocks settled in, left a mess, and damaged critical infrastructure. The city tried deterrents with little success. The turning point came with a simple insight about animal behavior – sometimes the most effective messenger is one of their own. With state permission and permits, the City installed a plastic buzzard with real wings on each tower, and the roosting stopped. That fix solved the utility problem, but it also sparked a bigger idea: what if we transformed a nuisance into a celebration that brings people together?
That question led to the creation of Bob the Buzzard, a dapper mascot with a bow tie and top hat who presides over New Year’s Eve in historic downtown Perry. The Perry Buzzard Drop launched in 2013 and quickly gained national notice, including recognition from USA Today. The event blends small-town warmth with big-night energy: live entertainment, free activities, plenty of food and beverage options, and an atmosphere that invites families, friends, and visitors to linger. Bob poses for photos, dances through the evening, and joins us for the countdown as we welcome a fresh year. The story behind the spectacle remains part of the charm our community turned a maintenance challenge into shared joy.
Accessibility sits at the heart of the celebration. Many activities are free, so families can participate without worrying about costs. The kid-friendly “kiddie countdown” at 9 p.m. gives the youngest guests a chance to ring in the new year without staying out late, while midnight still holds its magic for night owls. Visitors can enjoy local vendors, discover new tastes, and explore historic downtown Perry at a comfortable pace. The event earns its reputation as both memorable and welcoming.
Join us in Historic Downtown Perry, meet Bob, and help us count down to a new year of exciting opportunities.