Ringing in the New Year in Style  

The weather on New Year’s Eve was less than desirable causing the City of Laurens Light Show to be cancelled but the rain couldn’t put a damper on the gala held at the Laurens County Museum.

The first of its kind in Laurens County, “A Night to Remember” fundraiser gala was nothing short of spectacular for the 135 plus who purchased tickets to ring in the new year in style.

The evening kicked off with a cocktail hour in the new museum exhibit space giving attendees a first look at the transformed space which is now the Tony Harper Exhibit Hall, named after the benefactor who gave the museum one million dollars in October 2019.

“We are so pleased with the status of the exhibit space,” said Laura Clifford Cook, executive director of the Laurens County Museum.  “The design and layout of the exhibit hall allows for the space to continue to evolve as we bring in new items and create new exhibits.  Learning is a life-long process, and we want the museum to be adaptable.”

After the reception, guests made their way upstairs to the Magnolia Room.  Following a short program which included an update on the museum and acknowledgement of those whose efforts have made it possible, the evening turned to food, fun and entertainment.

An elegant dinner of prime rib, smoked turkey and many sides was served by Lakeside BBQ and followed by an extraordinary display of sweets provided by pastry chef, Jim Miller that included something for any sweet tooth imaginable.

Dinner music by Double Take featured live horns and great vocals. Following dinner DJ Doug Bryson took over and the dance floor was open.  Guests enjoyed a variety of songs (including requests) and danced the night away.  The evening closed with a champagne toast to celebrate the new year.

New Year’s Eve is a time to celebrate a new year and reflect on the closing year.  The museum with its new exhibit hall and first-class event venue was the great place to do just that.

“It was a wonderful evening to celebrate NYE and to showcase the new museum,” said Walter Allen, president-elect of the Laurens County Museum Association Board.  “We look forward to celebrating many more special occasions in the Magnolia Room.”

If you missed this one, there’s always this year!

Click on the images below to view the photo gallery.