NATCHEZ — Chandeliers and streamers hung from the ceiling, red canister lights and disco balls danced on the walls and party hats and noisemakers dressed 50 round tables at the Vidalia Convention Center Saturday night.

“It’s amazing to go from May — when we had Hesco baskets all around the building — to this,” said Sheri Rabb, the marketing director for the convention center.

The glitzed-up, but casual locals and visitors who came to the Vidalia event to ring in the New Year all made an entrance on a mini red carpet.

But all the hard work to decorate paid off, she said.

“One reason (people attend the event) is because they can bring their stuff and party, and it’s less expense than (throwing a party) at home,” Rabb said.

The party featured three bands, Easy Eddie and the Partyrockers, Cuz ‘N Company and Slow Ride, all which had their own stage set up that spanned the whole north end of the building.

Soon after the party started, partygoers rolled in coolers and snacks and got ready to be entertained without the hassle of hosting at home.

Rabb said the crowd included people of all ages, from 30 to those in their 80s.

While some of the older folks usually skip out before the countdown, Rabb said that’s not always the case.

“Some of the oldest ones come stay till the doors close,” Rabb said.

One group of over-70 women said they were glad to be out celebrating for the holiday.

“I’m glad Lynn invited me, I would just be sitting at home, watching TV (and) working my word finds,” said Frankie Case, 77.

Lynn Clements, 78, said New Year’s has a special significance for her.

“I love it because I got married at five minutes after 12 (midnight), so we could always sing “Auld Lang Syne,” Clements said.

Although her husband died 31 years ago, Clements said the double-holiday is still exciting.

Clements’ sister, Fannie Case, 85, said she had a little fun teasing her husband before she left for the party.

“I told my husband, ‘If I find me a tall, good looking man, I’m going to dance with him,’” Case said.

“I may just go juking.”

Clements said she would be hitting the dance floor, herself, if the opportunity presented itself.

“If they turn (men) loose in our premises, we’ll dance with them,” she said.

Carolyn Monroe and Lee Monroe said they live four miles away from the convention center but brought their camper to the RV park for the night.

“We can crawl to the RV park if we need to,” Carolyn said.

“A camping space is cheaper than a DWI,” Lee joked.

Carolyn said her New Year’s resolution was the same as last years.

“To enjoy life more next year,” Carolyn said.

Lee added: “And to spend our kids inheritance.”

Natchez also hosted a New Year’s Eve party at the Natchez Convention Center.