Atlanta Welcomes 2011

ATLANTA — Crowds packed into downtown Atlanta on Friday to usher in 2011.

Tens of thousands gathered at Underground Atlanta for the annual peach drop countdown. The festivities included a live performance by Tito Jackson, of the Jackson Five. The celebration lasted until 4 a.m.

Other major weekend events in Atlanta included the annual Chick-Fil-A Bowl, where Florida State defeated South Carolina 26-17, the Zac Brown Band played Philips Arena and there was a concert at the Tabernacle. There was increased security downtown, but organizers said the local economy could use the activity. Organizers estimate the Chick-Fil-A Bowl alone brought from $30 million and 35 million to the city.

"This is the start of something big. Big events, big crowds, a big deal for Atlanta," celebrator Randy Philips told Channel 2's Erin Coleman.

Security Heightened For New Year's Festivities Group Stands Against Celebratory Gunfire More Than 100,000 Turn Out For Peach Drop

Numerous nightclubs, restaurants and hotels held events to ring in 2011, too.

Nelson's News on wsbtv.com visited the Gold Room to hear what those celebrating the new year had to say about 2011.

Here are some photos from the Gold Room on New Year's Eve.

WSBTV