The Gator Bowl is a fun way to start off the new year. Here are some downtown Jacksonville events at the Jacksonville Landing to help get you in the New Year’s and Gator Bowl spirit:

Wednesday, Dec. 29

• Karaoke at Hooters from 7-10 p.m.
• Christmas tree light shows will take place every hour on the hour from 6-9 p.m.
• Jacksonville Landing businesses will be open until 2 a.m.

Thursday, Dec. 30

• Hooters Girls calendar signing from 7-9 p.m. inside Hooters at The Landing
• Live music in the courtyard by Party Train from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m.
• Christmas tree light shows will take place every hour on the hour from 6-9 p.m.
• Jacksonville Landing businesses will be open until 2 a.m.

Friday, Dec. 31

• The VyStar 5K Run registration will be 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. and will take place at the front entrance of The Jacksonville Landing
• The University of Michigan Pep Rally will kick off at 1:30 p.m. in the courtyard and will feature the football team, marching band and cheerleaders
• Live entertainment in the courtyard by Radio 80 from 3-8 p.m. and by 5×7 from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.
• The annual New Year’s fireworks show will begin promptly at midnight
• Christmas tree light shows will take place every hour on the hour from 6-9 p.m.
• Landing businesses will be open until 2 a.m.

Saturday, Jan. 1

• Michigan will face Mississippi State in the 2011 Progressive Gator Bowl at EverBank Field. Kick off is at 1:30 p.m.

• The Progressive Gator Bowl will be aired live on the courtyard Jumbotron at 1:30 p.m.
• Live entertainment in the courtyard from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m.
• Fireworks show on the river at midnight

We hope to see you downtown!