How To for Dec. 27, 2015: Plunge into the new year by getting all wet (and cold)
Be joyful
Start off 2016 by dashing through the sand and into the ocean at the Hunting Island Pelican Plunge.
The eighth annual event typically attracts hundreds of hearty souls willing to brave the (approximately) 55-degree water and a crowd of onlookers checking out the costumes and festive atmosphere.
Registration begins at 11:30 a.m. at the lighthouse shelter at Hunting Island State Park and the plunge is set for 1 p.m.
The event is an annual fundraiser -- through pledges -- benefiting the Hunting Island State Park's Discover Carolina program, a hands-on, curriculum-based program at Beaufort County schools.
WHEN: 1 p.m. Friday
WHERE: Hunting Island State Park
COST: Free
DETAILS: www.friendsofhuntingisland.com or 843-838-2011
THURSDAY
Before heading home for an evening in -- or a late night out -- get New Year's Eve started at the Founders' Night Fireworks display. The free community event is at Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park in Beaufort from 5 to 7 p.m. where there'll be family activities, entertainment, hot chocolate, refreshments and a firework show.
The celebration is hosted by Beaufort Regional Chamber of Commerce, along with the partnership of the city of Beaufort and Beaufort 300.
THURSDAY
Join the fun at Hilton Head Island's very own New Year's Eve ball drop at Harbour Town in the Sea Pines Resort
At the stroke of 2016, ring in new years by watching the ball drop from the Harbour Town Lighthouse. For those who can't make it until midnight, an early ball drop begins the festivities at 7 p.m.
During your night of celebration, take a walk along the harbor and see the Christmas tree and illuminated seasonal figures.
For more information, call the Sea Pines Resort Recreation Department at 843-842-1979.
Compiled by Hilary Kraus/ Special to The Island Packet/ The Beaufort Gazette
Be active
Race your way into the new year at the 9th annual Bluffton New Year's Day Polar Bar 5K run and health walk.
The loop course starts and finishes at Publix Buckwalter Place parking lot, 101 Buckwalter Place Blvd. The route continues on Buckwalter Parkway and the Bluffton Parkway. There's also a one-mile dog and health walk course around Buckwalter Place. Strollers and baby joggers are welcome.
The race begins at 10 a.m., and same-day registration is from 8:45 to 9:45 a.m. For online registration and entry fee information, go to www.bearfootsports.com.
Why I connect
Beth Young, Volunteer at Citizens Opposed to Domestic Abuse (CODA)
"CODA was there for me when I needed them 26 years ago. It is a blessing and a responsibility for me to give as much time as possible back to the organization. I've come full circle and currently serve as vice president on the board."
This story was originally published December 27, 2015 at 5:02 PM with the headline "How To for Dec. 27, 2015: Plunge into the new year by getting all wet (and cold)."