Cherryville New Years Shooters Celebrate a Record-Breaking 2025 Event

4:36 PM EST |January 6, 2025|Lauren Ramsey|Events, Holiday, News Articles, People

By: Lauren Ramsey – Wise News Network

Cherryville, NC (WNN)— The Cherryville New Years Shooters marked the arrival of 2025 with their long-standing tradition of firing muskets across the town on January 1st. Meanwhile, the celebration, which lasted 19 hours, concluded at Rudisill Stadium around 6:30 p.m. on New Year’s Day, bringing the community together for the final stop of the day.

Over 550 Shooters Join the Celebration

According to The Cherryville New Years Shooters Official Facebook Page, this year’s event drew a record-breaking crowd of over 550 shooters, one of the largest turnouts in recent years. With the success of the 2025 event, plans are already underway for next year’s celebration.

The 2025 Cherryville New Years Shooters Group Photo. Jan 1st, 2025 by Mason Beam (WNN)

A Midnight Start and 50 Stops Along the Way

The festivities began at midnight with the Original Cherryville New Years Shooters firing their first shots at Black’s Grill. For the day, the shooters followed a prearranged schedule, making nearly 50 stops at homes and community sites. The goal was simple but meaningful: to spread goodwill and celebrate the new year.

The Cherryville New Years Shooters at their first stop, Black’s Grill. Jan 1st, 2025 by Mason Beam (WNN)

A Chant to End the Day

The shooters concluded their route at Rudisill Stadium, delivering the Shooter’s Prayer and recognizing the officers of the Cherryville New Year Shooters. While the treasurer of the New Year’s Shooters Donnie Alexander led the shooter’s chant.

Rusty Wise (Secretary), Josh Farmer (Safety), and Donnie Alexander (Treasurer) of the Cherryville New Years Shooters after completing the Rudisill Stadium Shoot. Jan 1st, 2025 by Mason Beam (WNN)

Perspectives from the Shooters

Shooter Matt Aldridge, participating for his second year, shared what drew him to this cherished tradition. “I’ve heard about it most of my life, and after moving to Cherryville three years ago, I decided to join,” Aldridge said. “I love history, outdoor sports, and the family traditions behind it, so I just wanted to be a part of it.”

Matt Aldridge (center) with his family shooting with the Cherryville New Years Shooters. Jan 1st, 2025 Submitted to WNN

Reflecting on his favorite memory, Aldridge mentioned last year’s banquet, where he listened to families share stories about their long-standing involvement with the New Year Shooters. “Hearing about how many years shooting had been hosted at their families’ homes was really special,” he recalled.

For Aldridge, this year held even more significance. “Last year, it was just me and my oldest son. This year, all seven of us are shooting,” he said. “It means a lot to have everyone in the family join and start a new tradition together.”

When asked what he hopes younger generations take away from the event, Aldridge emphasized the importance of preserving its history. “I hope they understand and respect the tradition’s meaning. Unfortunately, some folks don’t fully grasp what it’s about, and as time goes on, pieces of the tradition can be lost,” he explained. “I hope younger generations truly appreciate what this is all about.”

Community Insights from the Council

Cherryville City Council Member Janice Hovis, a lifelong participant in the New Year Shooters tradition, shared her deep connection to the event. “I’ve been involved in this tradition for as long as I can remember, and I’m 77 years old now,” Hovis said. “When I was about three years old, I came to the Blain Beam house on Requa Road in Cherryville. They were shooting that day, and I remember being scared, watching them from inside the house through the window.”

Hovis emphasized the importance of understanding the roots of the tradition. “It’s a wonderful tradition, but so many people don’t really understand where it comes from,” she explained. “This event goes back many generations and is a vital part of Cherryville’s identity. It’s something we hope young people will continue because it’s one of the things Cherryville is known for.”

When asked about her most memorable experience, Hovis fondly recalled that childhood moment. “The memory of being a little girl in this house and watching the shooters through the window is the one that stands out to me the most,” she shared

Watch the Action Online

For those who missed the event this year, recordings of the festivities are available on Wise News Network’s Facebook page. The live streams capture the spirit and energy of this time-honored tradition, allowing viewers to experience the celebration from anywhere.