On New Year's Eve in North Carolina, locals and visitors revel in the possibilities of the months to come. From ball drops to fireworks to First Night activities, every locale rings in the new year a little differently. As part of NewYearsQuest -- a MapQuest guide to the best New Year's Eve sights and sounds in the U.S. and in major cities around the world -- here are three recommended events for New Year's Eve 2011 in North Carolina.

North Carolina New Year's Eve Events Map

First Night Charlotte

Families in Charlotte looking for a safe, alcohol-free New Year's Eve celebration can attend the city's First Night event, which stretches through Charlotte's Uptown district. The event kicks off at 3 p.m. on New Year's Eve with kid-focused cultural events, including theater performances and dancing, at spots that include ImaginOn and Discovery Place, ending with a kids countdown at 5 p.m. Adults can continue the celebration into the evening, dancing to the music of headliners the Atlanta Party Band, as well as more than 40 other bands and entertainers (among the latter group is Steve Langley, the "Paddle Ball King," who holds the Guinness World Record for Most Paddles). Guests can also view artwork by Charlotte's most talented artists. Participants can purchase a wristband, which gives them admission into First Night events; check the website for updates about wristband prices.

Charlotte First Night, East Trade Street and North Tryon Street, Charlotte, NC 28202

Island Of Lights New Year's Celebration

Midnight in the heart of Cape Fear? Don't be afraid of the dark. Besides, Carolina Beach's Island of Lights New Year's Celebration will light up the sky with a spectacular fireworks display. The fireworks follow a giant beach-ball drop that counts down to midnight and the first moment of 2012. Before the countdown, families can stroll down the boardwalk, browse through festive party favors for sale and dance to the music spun by a disc jockey. This family-friendly, free event begins at 9 p.m. North Carolinians can forget the snow on New Year's Eve and hit the sand instead!

Carolina Beach Boardwalk, Cape Fear Boulevard, Carolina Beach, NC 28428

New Year's Eve Possum Drop

People looking for an unforgettable way to ring in the new year can head to Brasstown, North Carolina, known as the Possum Capital of the World. The evening festivities kick off with the Miss Possum pageant, featuring some of the area's biggest, burliest men dressed up as beauty queens. Families can enjoy bluegrass music and sip on cider at this outdoor event, which takes place downtown at Clay's Corner gas station. Just before midnight, revelers can watch a live possum in a festively decorated cage lower as they count down to the new year. This free event begins at 9 p.m.

Clay's Corner, 11005 Old Highway 64 W., Brasstown, NC 28902

New Year's Eve In North Carolina: Video

Did we miss a North Carolina New Year's Eve event? Tell us about it in the comments section below.

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