The eighth annual Ball Drop in Hastings this New Year’s Eve has all of the features of past celebrations and more. Entertainment, music, hot chocolate, fire pits, games, dancing, a light and sound show at midnight and free fun run/walk minutes into the new year are part of the evening.

An ice sculpture is a planned centerpiece  A DJ and live musical talent will keep the festive mood swinging until the ball drop at midnight officially ends 2016 and welcomes in 2017.

This year’s event also presides over the changing of Hastings mayor with the swearing in of David Tossava as new mayor, replacing the retiring Frank Campbell. Also, the fun run will start from the Thornapple Plaza instead of the ball drop site this year.

It all starts about 9 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 31 at the corner of State and Jefferson streets in downtown Hastings.