Cherryville’s New Year’s Shooters tradition continues

The sound of gun fire could be heard throughout Cherryville Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2014 as the Traditional Cherryville Shooters and the Cherryville New Years Shooters fired their black powder rifles to ring in the new year. (Mike Hensdill/USA TODAY NETWORK)

December 29, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. UTC

By WSOCTV.com News Staff

CHERRYVILLE, N.C. — On New Year’s Day 2026, Cherryville will continue its tradition of New Year’s Shooters, who will travel the area firing guns to ward off negative energy that could potentially follow the city’s residents into the new year.

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The participants will travel to several residences, say a chant meant to bring a good year to the homeowners, fire their guns, and enjoy refreshments in exchange for their services.

According to the Gaston Gazette, the event, organized by The Cherryville New Years Shooters Inc., will begin at Blacks Grill and end at Rudisill Stadium.