Baltimore, ML (latestsports) Baltimore’s Inner Harbor came alive with celebration as the city welcomed 2025 in style. The annual New Year’s Eve festivities, hosted by the Baltimore Office of Promotion & the Arts (BOPA) and the city, featured a stunning fireworks display and live music, drawing crowds from near and far.
The excitement began at 7 p.m. at the Amphitheater Stage, where DJ Oji set the mood with upbeat tunes. The Experience, a band blending blues, rock, soul, funk, and gospel, kept the energy high as people gathered to bid farewell to 2024.
A Night of Celebration
Residents and visitors alike shared their enthusiasm for the evening’s events.
“We’re really excited to be here,” said Chamath Senevirathna from Cockeysville. “I heard about the fireworks and drone show tonight. My kid is thrilled!”
Willie White, a visitor from New Jersey, added, “I’m used to the New York vibe, so I came out to see how Baltimore does it. It’s a great atmosphere.”
As midnight approached, Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott took the stage to lead the countdown, joined by cheering crowds eager to welcome the new year.
“Baltimore will be just as lively as the Big Apple tonight,” said Robyn Murphy, interim board chair and CEO of BOPA. “There are two sections of fireworks, so no matter where you’re standing—southeast, northwest, or anywhere in between—you’ll have an incredible view.”
Behind the Scenes: Creating the Fireworks Spectacle
Preparations for the fireworks display took place in Curtis Bay, where crews worked throughout the day to ensure the show dazzled.
“We’ve got the barge set up and ready to go,” said Tim Small, pyrotechnics director with Image Engineering.
Small and his team carefully wired each firework shell into a computerized firing system. “Each shell is designed for specific effects,” he explained. “For example, one might create a spinning silver ring with white strobe effects. It’s going to be an 11-minute show full of high-energy, colorful visuals.”
Looking Ahead to 2025
As the fireworks lit up the night sky, many attendees reflected on their hopes for the new year. Kate O’Connor, visiting Baltimore with her family, shared her resolution: “After a month of indulgence, I plan to eat more greens.”
Edward Henson, who spent the last day of 2024 at Federal Hill Park, focused on health and fitness. “I’m getting in shape and aiming to be healthy and wealthy this year,” he said.
The O’Connor family, considering a move to Baltimore, used the evening to think about the lifestyle changes a new city might bring. “It’s about being prepared and ready for what’s ahead,” said Henry O’Connor.
As the clock struck midnight and fireworks lit up the Inner Harbor, Baltimore proved once again that it knows how to ring in a new year with joy, hope, and a spirit of togetherness.
