HACKETTSTOWN, N.J. (Warren County) — Thousands of people gathered in downtown Hackettstown on New Year’s Eve, braving cold temperatures and even some light snow, to ring in 2026 during the town’s third annual New Year’s Eve Blast, highlighted by the signature M&M’S® Ball Drop at midnight.
The event, hosted by the Town of Hackettstown in partnership with the Hackettstown Police Department, Mars Wrigley and the Hackettstown Business Improvement District, ran from 8 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. in the heart of downtown and drew crowds from across the region.
Longtime Hackettstown residents Steve and Sharon Somers were honored during the celebration and led the midnight countdown alongside Mayor Jerry DiMaio. The couple pressed the button that lowered the M&M’S® ball, officially welcoming the new year.
“Pressing the button is more than a gesture,” the Somers said. “It’s a reflection of 38 years of love, gratitude, and giving to a town that has given us so much. Hackettstown will forever be a part of us, and we will continue to help it shine, one act of kindness and one bright new year at a time.”
The evening began with 11-year-old Hackettstown resident Giana Pichardo performing the national anthem at 8 p.m. Live entertainment followed with Joe Racz and the Brawlstars performing throughout the night, along with performances by the Hackettstown High School Cheerleading Team and the Tiger Cheer Association.
A Kids Zone on Grand Avenue featured family-friendly activities, including a giant snow globe photo experience, rides, games, a face painter and visits from M&M’S® characters and the Centenary University Cyclone mascot. Food vendors offered a range of options, including wings, Cuban cuisine, coffee, hot chocolate and snacks, while free giveaways were provided by local organizations and sponsors.
“What an honor it is to have Steve and Sharon Somers ringing in the New Year for Hackettstown this year,” Mayor Jerry DiMaio said. “For everything Steve and Sharon have given to the town and the school district goes beyond words, and it is a true pleasure to join them on stage to press the button and begin the countdown to 2026.”
DiMaio said the New Year’s Eve Blast has become one of the town’s most anticipated celebrations.
“This event brings our community together in a way that is joyful, exciting and uniquely Hackettstown,” he said. “We are also incredibly thankful to Mars Wrigley for their continued partnership and support, which makes the M&M’S® Ball Drop possible and helps create a magical night for families across the region.”
New Year’s Eve Blast Committee Chairman Darren Tynan said the event has quickly become one of Hackettstown’s most cherished traditions.
“In just three years, this celebration has grown into something truly special for our town,” Tynan said. “Each New Year’s Eve, Hackettstown comes together to share in the joy, unity and excitement that define our community.”
“There’s truly no better way to welcome the new year in Hackettstown than with this now iconic M&M’S® countdown – it’s a one-of-a-kind tradition that brings our community together,” said Michal Riha, site director for Mars Hackettstown.
Hackettstown Business Improvement District Executive Director Laurie Rapisardi said the BID was proud to help present the annual celebration.
Despite the cold temperatures and light snowfall, organizers said the strong turnout underscored the growing popularity of the New Year’s Eve Blast. The event was also streamed live on Facebook and YouTube for those unable to attend in person.
