DELAWARE/MARYLAND -Â From icy ocean plunges to dazzling fireworks displays and unique traditions, here's a roundup of what's happening as we bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new.
ANCHOR DROP
The Overfalls Foundation is pulling out all the stops for its 13th annual New Year's Eve celebration in Lewes. An anchor will drop will from the top of the Lightship's mast. Festivities kick off at 11:30 p.m. on Sunday, promising a memorable start to the year ahead.Â
DEWEY BALL DROP
Dewey Beach is raising a toast to the new year with a spectacular ball drop at midnight on New Orleans Street and Route 1. The fun starts at 11:30 p.m. on New Year's Eve, setting the stage for an unforgettable night of celebration.
OCEAN CITY FIREWORKS
Ocean City is set to shine brightly as the clock strikes midnight with not one but two fireworks displays. The large display will illuminate downtown on the beach near Dorchester Street, while a smaller one can be enjoyed at Northside Park. To make the night even more special, the town is offering free bus service from 6 a.m. on New Year's Eve until 3:00 a.m. Jan. 1. Buses will run about every 30 minutes from 6 a.m. – 6 p.m. on Dec. 31 and about every 15 minutes from 6 p.m. December 31 – 3 a.m. January 1.
BERLIN DOUBLE BALL DROP
Berlin is taking the celebration up a notch with dual ball drops this New Year's Eve. Main Street will come alive with a lively celebration featuring a laser show, music, and even cowbells for the kids from 5 to 6 p.m. After dancing the night away, another laser show will lead up to the ball drop at midnight, making it a night to remember.
SUNDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL
For those opting to stay in on New Year's Eve, don't forget to tune into CoastTV for Sunday Night Football featuring the Green Bay Packers versus the Minnesota Vikings. Coverage starts at 7 p.m. Stay tuned for your hyper local CoastTV Newscast right after the game.
FIRST DAY HIKES
If you're looking to start the new year with outdoor activities, consider setting out on a hike. Maryland's state parks offer ranger-led and self-guided trails, while Delaware state parks provide guided and self-guided first-day hikes for those eager to embrace the great outdoors.
PENGUIN SWIM
For the brave-hearted, there are opportunities to take a chilly dip in the ocean for a good cause. Atlantic General Hospital's 30th Annual Penguin Swim will be held on the morning of Jan. 1 at the beach near the Princess Royale Oceanfront Hotel.
FENWICK FREEZE
You can splash into the new year at the 19th Annual Fenwick Freeze at 10:30 a.m. or show your support for the Fenwick Island Beach Patrol by purchasing a shirt.
DEWEY DUNK
The annual Dewey Dunk takes place at 11:30 a.m., raising funds for the Dewey Business Partnership. Costumes are encouraged for this 11th annual event.
HAIR OFTHE DOG AND LEO BRADY OCEAN PLUNGE
Work up a sweat by running through downtown Bethany Beach before plunging into the ocean there. The Quiet Resorts Charitable Foundation is hosting the Hair of the Dog 5K Run and 1 Mile Walk, as well as the Leo Brady Ocean Plunge, with funds raised going toward service-focused scholarships for students.
ELLENDALE NEW YEAR'S DAY PARADE
The Annual Ellendale New Year’s Day Parade starts at noon. Participants will line up in Ingram Village and proceed down North Old Street to Main Street before turning and heading to the fire department. It promises to be a delightful community event to kick off the year. Detours will be in place.
Last Weekend for Schellville and Winterfest of Lights
Finally, for those looking for a festive atmosphere to round out the holiday season, both Schellville and Winterfest of Lights will remain open through New Year's Eve, offering one last chance to savor the magic of the season.