Massive New Year's Eve party kicks off in Tempe

TEMPE, AZ - Planners who organized Tempe's Fiesta Bowl Block Party expected about 50,000 people to show up to this year's New Year's Eve bash, one of the largest in the nation.

The Valley's weather over the holiday weekend has been better than last year, contributing to expectations for a larger turnout, planners said. 

The massive party, which has been happening since 1984, forced officials to close down several blocks in the Mill Avenue District Saturday.

Gin Blossoms, Sawyer Brown, and Gabriel and Dresden were the headlining performers on hand to rock the  Tempe crowds.

Planners said more than 30 other local musicians were expected to hit seven other stages at the party.

At 10 p.m. and midnight, visitors were also treated to a fireworks show, as well as the famous Tostito's "Chip Drop" to ring in the new year.

Oklahoma State University and Stanford fans told ABC15 they're ready to celebrate even before knowing the outcome of the big game.

"Stanford is going to win because they have Andrew Luck and anybody who would turn down millions of dollars to come back and get a Stanford education, which is priceless, he is my main man," said a fan who was visiting from the Bay Area.

An Oklahoma State University fan was sure her team would win.

When asked why, she said, "because it's Stanford."

She laughed and added, "we just play better ball."