Ring in 2026: Your Guide to Crystal Coast New Year's Celebrations

The Crystal Coast knows how to celebrate the new year! Whether you're looking for a family-friendly early countdown or a refreshing start to 2026, here are three can't-miss events happening right in our backyard.

1. Harkers Island Anchor Drop - December 31st at 7:00 PM

Start your New Year's Eve celebration island-style at Shell Point on Harkers Island. This beloved annual tradition features the iconic Anchor Drop at 7:00 PM - perfect for families with young children who can't quite make it to midnight.

Arrive at 6:00 PM to enjoy complimentary hot cocoa and cookies while you wait for the big moment. There's something special about watching that anchor drop surrounded by your neighbors, with the winter waters of the sound as your backdrop. It's classic Crystal Coast community spirit at its finest.

Where: Shell Point, Harkers Island
Time: Hot cocoa and cookies at 6:00 PM, Anchor drops at 7:00 PM

2. Downtown Morehead City Crab Pot Drop - December 31st at 7:30 PM

Head to Ottis Landing for the City of Morehead City's signature New Year's Eve celebration. The evening kicks off at 7:30 PM with children's activities leading up to the famous Crab Pot Drop - because nothing says "coastal Carolina" quite like dropping a crab pot to mark the new year!

The festivities culminate with a spectacular fireworks display at 9:00 PM. This year, note that the 9 PM fireworks are the only show - there won't be a midnight display, making this the perfect time to catch the pyrotechnics.

KC's Brews and the Frosty Flounder food trucks will be on-site serving coffee, tea, lemonade, popsicles, and ice cream to keep everyone fueled for the celebration.

Where: Ottis Landing, Downtown Morehead City
Time: 7:30 PM start, fireworks at 9:00 PM

3. Atlantic Beach Penguin Plunge - January 1st at 1:00 PM

Ready to start 2026 with a splash? The Atlantic Beach Penguin Plunge is the ultimate way to kick off the new year while supporting local charities. This annual tradition brings together brave (or maybe slightly crazy?) souls who plunge into the Atlantic Ocean on New Year's Day.

This year's event benefits two incredible organizations: Crystal Coast Hospice House and Hand 2 Hand Down East, Inc. On-site registration opens at 10:00 AM, with the official plunge happening at 1:00 PM.

Early online registration is available and includes options for commemorative Penguin Plunge sweatshirts or t-shirts - perfect for showing off your polar bear status! Your donation makes a real difference in our community while giving you bragging rights for the rest of the year.

Where: Atlantic Beach
Time: Registration at 10:00 AM, Plunge at 1:00 PM
Benefiting: Crystal Coast Hospice House & Hand 2 Hand Down East, Inc.

Whether you're dropping anchors, watching crab pots fall, or taking the icy plunge, the Crystal Coast offers something for everyone to celebrate the turning of the calendar. These events showcase what makes our community special - neighbors gathering together, supporting local causes, and embracing our unique coastal traditions.

Which event will you be attending? However you choose to celebrate, here's to a happy, healthy, and prosperous 2026!