
Photo Credit: Downtown Morehead City
It’s that time of year again—time to make those New Year’s Eve plans and ring in 2025 with a bang! Looking for something to do? You’re in luck because this blog post is packed with fun, family-friendly events to celebrate the New Year. From exciting countdowns to delicious dining and outdoor adventures, here’s a roundup of the best events happening in Downtown Morehead City to help you make the most of your holiday season!
Celebration at Big Rock Landing
If you’re looking for a fun and festive way to celebrate New Year’s Eve with the whole family, look no further than Morehead City’s Downtown Countdown! Hosted by the Town of Morehead City and Downtown Morehead City, Inc., this event offers something for everyone, starting at 5:30 p.m. at Big Rock Landing, right in front of the iconic Big Rock Fountain.
Families can enjoy a variety of fun activities, including face painting, games, music, and coloring stations. The highlight of the evening? The Crab Pot Drop at 6:00 p.m. That’s right—this family-friendly event features the traditional crab pot drop, and it’s sure to delight kids of all ages as they join in the excitement of the early countdown.
The celebration doesn’t stop there! After the crab pot drop, enjoy some shopping and dining at local restaurants throughout downtown. As the night draws to a close, make your way to the waterfront to watch the spectacular fireworks show over Sugarloaf Island, and don’t forget to countdown to midnight when the large, brightly lit crab pot is dropped to officially ring in the New Year.
Click here to learn more. It’s a night you won’t want to miss!
New Year Dinner at 34° North Restaurant
For those looking for a more intimate way to celebrate, make a reservation at 34° North Restaurant for a special New Year’s Eve Dinner. Located at the Beaufort Hotel, this upscale restaurant offers a refined dining experience that’s perfect for bidding farewell to 2024.
The evening includes a luxurious dinner and fantastic views of the waterfront. You can make a night of it by staying at the Beaufort Hotel, so you can take the elevator home after the festivities and start 2025 in comfort and style.
Dinner reservations are required for this special event, so be sure to call (252) 838-7250 or book via OpenTable.com. In addition to the regular menu, enjoy some festive holiday specials as you savor the exquisite cuisine. And for those who want to get an early start to the New Year, breakfast and lunch will also be served, with breakfast available from 8-11 a.m. and lunch from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. If you’re planning to dine at 34° North, take advantage of their complimentary valet parking to make your night even more seamless!
Pirate Plunge & S’mores by the Fire
If you’re ready to add a little excitement (and a splash of adventure) to your New Year’s Eve, don’t miss the Buccaneers’ New Year’s Eve celebration in Beaufort. This unique event, hosted by the Beaufort Business Association, is filled with pirate-themed fun for the whole family.
The evening kicks off with a Pirate Plunge at 7:00 p.m. Watch as Capt. Shack takes an icy dive into Taylor’s Creek, plunging into the chilly waters in true pirate fashion! But that’s not all—gather around the fire pit afterward to enjoy s’mores and hot cocoa, and warm up while you relax with friends and family. Bring your lawn chairs (but leave the coolers at home!) for a cozy and festive atmosphere. The event promises to be a memorable experience for anyone looking to ring in the New Year with a bit of pirate flair.
New Year’s Day Brunch at 34° North Restaurant
Start 2025 off on the right foot with a traditional New Year’s Day Brunch at 34° North Restaurant. Celebrate the first day of the year with good food and good company, and take part in the Southern tradition of enjoying greens, black-eyed peas, and cornbread, a meal said to bring good luck in the coming year.
In addition to the special New Year’s Day menu, the restaurant will also feature their regular brunch options, including favorites like Crab Cake Benedict, Egg White Frittata, and Shrimp & Grits. And for those looking to kick off 2025 with a festive touch, enjoy the Bloody Mary Bar in celebration of National Bloody Mary Day!
Whether you prefer dining indoors or taking in the beautiful views of Rachel Carson Reserve from the outdoor patio, 34° North offers a perfect spot to start the year on a delicious note. Brunch will be served from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., and reservations are strongly recommended. You can book by calling (252) 838-7250 or through OpenTable.com.
New Year’s Resolution Fun Run
If you’re kicking off 2025 with a fitness goal or simply want to get some fresh air, the New Year’s Resolution Fun Run is a great way to begin the year! Taking place on January 2nd, 2024, this event invites participants of all ages and skill levels to join in a fun and memorable race experience. It’s a fantastic way to get active and meet new people while setting positive intentions for the year ahead. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just looking to enjoy the festivities, this is a great way to add some physical activity to your New Year’s celebrations. Click here to register!
With these exciting events in and around Morehead City, you’ll have no shortage of ways to celebrate the New Year. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun, fine dining, or a pirate adventure, there is something for everyone to enjoy! If you’ve been dreaming of calling Morehead City home, Al Williams Properties is here to help! rom waterfront homes to charming downtown properties, we’ll guide you every step of the way to find the perfect place to celebrate New Year’s for years to come. Contact us today and let’s make 2025 your year for a fresh start!