Small town recognizes their history with annual New Year’s Eve event



Tweet this: Eastover, NC, a small town in @CumberlandNC rings in 2019 w/the 8th annual Flea Drop. Why a flea? Its a symbol of their heritage. After "Jasper" the flea is dropped, an 1861 cannon rings in 2019. The family-friendly event starts at 10 pm. @VisitFayNC https://bit.ly/2Gkdd51

Cumberland County, NC – As they have for the last eight years, residents of Eastover, North Carolina will gather at their community building on New Year’s Eve to watch a 30-pound ceramic flea descend and herald a New Year.

The 3-foot tall insect, affectionately named Jasper, is made of fabric, foam, wire and wood. The Town Manager, Charles McLaurin, created Jasper in 2010 for the first Flea Drop.

Why a flea? "The flea is a symbol of our heritage," says Susan Baggett, event chair. "For a long period, part of Eastover was known as Flea Hill because of a flea infestation that was eradicated many years ago." While the infestation was eliminated, the nickname stuck.

Festivities start at 10 pm at the Eastover Community Building on the corner of Middle Road and School Streets. That’s when doors open for a dance with a DJ spinning tunes until just before midnight.

Outside, family-friendly special activities are planned for all ages. “Several events are sure to keep everyone having fun until midnight,” says Baggett. “Two new events are a Moon Pie eating contest the party game Poop the Potato.” Other games are Cornhole and Pass the Pig.

Just before Jasper starts his descent, local humorist Judy McLaurin will share the history of Eastover. To honor local law enforcement, the Eastover deputy starts the countdown. Once Jasper reaches the bottom, a replica 1861 cannon will be fired, officially signaling the start of 2019.

The Eastover Flea Drop is a free, family-friendly and alcohol-free event. A food truck will be on-site for anyone wishing to purchase refreshments.

Incorporated in 2007, Eastover is a town of 3,600 just east of Fayetteville, NC.

About Fayetteville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau:

Fayetteville Area Convention and Visitors Bureau is a private, not-for-profit organization responsible for positioning Cumberland County as a destination for conventions, sporting events and individual travel. For additional information, visit www.visitfayettevillenc.com or call 1-800-255-8217.