Looking for the best ways to kick off the New Year along 30A? From festive New Year’s Eve celebrations and the iconic Polar Bear Plunge to cozy brunches, craft nights, live music, and local markets, this week is packed with events to suit every mood. Explore the highlights and make plans to dive into 2025 with style and fun!

1. Celebrate New Year’s Eve on 30A

End 2024 in style with two days of celebrations along 30A! From family-friendly Noon Year’s Eve events to gourmet dinners, rooftop parties, live music, and spectacular fireworks, there’s something for everyone. Start 2025 with a splash at the Polar Bear Plunge or a cozy brunch.

For the full guide to events on December 30 and 31, click here.

2. Plunge Into 2025: 11th Annual Polar Bear Swim

Kick off the New Year with a refreshing splash at the South Walton Fire District’s Polar Bear Plunge on January 1 at Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar. Join the fun with a costume contest at noon, a daring dip into the Gulf at 1 p.m., and lively post-plunge celebrations—all in support of SWFD’s community education programs. Registration is $20 and includes a commemorative towel, with kids under 12 joining for free. Don’t miss this iconic 30A tradition! Learn more here!

3. New Year, Same PJs: Pajama Brunch Party

Ring in 2024 at Stinky’s Fish Camp with a cozy twist! Don your comfiest pajamas and enjoy a delightful brunch paired with a free mimosa. Start the year with comfort, good vibes, and a touch of bubbly.

New Year Day Pajama Brunch / Wednesday, January 1, 2025, from 11 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. @ Stinky’s Fish Camp

4. Oyster Wednesdays: Shuck, Savor, Save

Celebrate midweek with AJ’s Oyster Wednesdays! From 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., enjoy fresh raw oysters for $12 a dozen and half-priced baked oysters. A delicious way to ride out the week, available at all AJ’s locations through February 2025!

Oyster Wednesdays / Wednesday, January 1, 2025, from 4 p.m. – 6 p.m. @ AJ’s Grayton Beach

5. Craft, Chill, and Create: Personalized Craft Night In

Unleash your creativity along 30A with a personalized craft night hosted in the comfort of your own home or Airbnb! Choose from unique projects like beach-textured art or custom macrame, while a professional handles all the details. Perfect for a stress-free and memorable evening with friends or family!

Personalized Craft Night In! /Thursday, January 2, 2025, from 5 p.m. – 10 p.m. @ Inlet Beach Regional Access

6. Tee Off Together: Links Golf Scramble

Hit the greens at The Links Golf Club for a friendly 9-hole scramble! Gather your group, enjoy the coastal views, and swing into the weekend. Space is limited, so reserve your spot by calling 850.267.8155.

Links Golf Scramble / Friday, January 3, 2024, from 2 p.m. @ The Links Golf Club

7. Ellie Biscuit Trail Trot: 20 & 10-Mile Challenge

Lace up for the Ellie Biscuit Trail Trot at Pt. Washington State Forest! Starting at 7 a.m., runners can tackle scenic 20 or 10-mile courses, earn coveted race swag, and enjoy post-race chili. Sign up now to secure your spot and join the fun!

Ellie Biscuit 20 & 10-Mile Trail Trot / Saturday, January 4, 2024, from 7 a.m. @ Point Washington State Forest Eastern Lake Trailhead

8. Dion & Friends: Live Tunes on the Magnolia Patio

Unwind with live music, mouthwatering bites, and craft cocktails at Papa Surf Burger Bar! Enjoy the chill vibes from 6 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and make it a night to remember. Don’t miss Happy Hour from 4–6 p.m. before the show!

Live Music : Dion & Friends / Saturday, January 4, 2025, from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. @ Papa Surf Burger Bar

9. Fresh Finds at the Rosemary Beach Farmers Market

Stroll through Rosemary Beach on Sunday morning and explore a vibrant farmers market from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Discover fresh produce, local goodies, and coastal charm in every corner!

Farmers Market / Sunday, January 5, 2024, from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. @ Rosemary Beach

To keep up-to-date with daily 30A events and other fun things happening here at the beach, bookmark 30A.com/events, and download the free 30A iPhone and 30A Android apps.