Venue manager Andrea Cross said the community’s reaction to the New Year’s Eve event was “nuts”.

The celebration was the first time in many years that gave people spending the new year in Horsham an option. 

Mrs Cross said the popularity of the Horsham Agricultural Society’s event has allowed them to bring a new festival to Horsham in March. 

“The final tally through the gate was 2000 people throughout the night, which confirms our decision to organise the Horsham Irish Festival for March 16,” she said. 

In the lead up to the New Year’s Eve celebration, Mrs Cross said there was a massive response on social media. 

“I gauge interest by the response on social media and it was significantly higher than any other event by the Horsham Agricultural Society,” she said. 

“It wasn’t until the lead up when I was stopped in the supermarket and people driving in while we were setting up, that I saw exactly how much interest it has got.” 

Mrs Cross said the event was free, which was a great incentive for families to attend. 

There was novelty sprinklers, a giant sandpit, merry-go-round and a jumping castle for the children. For the adults, live entertainment all night, a beer garden and food trucks. 

“People are often going on holidays for new years eve or they stay here and this event has gave families something to do and not at a huge expense,” she said. 

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