Santa has just settled down for a long, winter’s nap and that means it’s time to ring in the New Year with spectacular beach views, black-eyed peas, fresh seafood and a New Year’s Day dip in the Gulf of Mexico. Usher in 2015 at the beach and experience a whole new state of merrymaking on the Alabama Gulf Coast.
Whether you’re looking for festivities for the grownups or have children in tow, there’s no shortage of celebration and revelry to ring in 2015. We’ve listed a few of the Dec. 31 and Jan. 1 events, but for a complete listing, be sure to stop by the calendar of events.
Dec. 31
Noon Year’s Eve at LuLu’s, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Gulf Shores
For the 10th year, LuLu’s has hosted this family-friendly event. There will be kid-safe fireworks, face painting, games and a beach ball drop at noon. This event is free.
Reeling in the New Year at The Wharf, 7 p.m., Orange Beach
Hear live music throughout the night and participate in games and activities for the whole family. The signature “Marlin Drop” will be held with the countdown to midnight. Fireworks will top off the night. This event is free.
Flora-Bama’s New Year’s Eve Bash, 7 p.m. Perdido Key
There will be live music on three stages, along with food, party favors and champagne. Tickets start at $40.
Fisher’s 2014 New Year’s Eve, 7:30 p.m., Orange Beach
Musician Robert Ellis will entertain guests at Fisher’s during an all-inclusive four-course dinner with wine pairings and open bar. Tickets are $195 per person.
New Year’s Eve Hangout Peace Out, 9 p.m., Gulf Shores
Kristy Lee and Dirt Road Revival, The Mulligan Brothers and The Hussy Hicks will keep the music going at The Hangout on New Year’s Eve. There will be a midnight buffet, champagne toast and balloon drop. Tickets start at $35 per person.
Gala New Year’s Eve Cruise, 9 p.m., Orange Beach
Take a four-hour riverboat cruise with dinner, live music, dancing and an open bar till midnight. Tickets start at $100 per person.
Jan. 1
Annual Slip & Slide Polar Bear Dip, 11 a.m., Gulf Shores
Slip and slide your way into the Gulf for a non-traditional Polar Bear Dip. This event is free, and participants will be treated to a buffet at The Hangout afterwards.
Polar Bear Dip, Noon to 2 p.m., Perdido Key
Celebrate the New Year by taking a dip in the Gulf at high noon on Jan. 1 at Flora-Bama. Participants are invited to a traditional feast of black-eyed peas, cornbread, ham and more.
1st Day Hikes, 1-2:30 p.m., Gulf Shores
Connect with nature and join the Gulf State Park on a hike at Gulf Oak Ridge Trail.