Ring in the new year in style in the Dan River region. Local events offer a host of ways to celebrate, from a traditional midnight champagne toast to an adventurous plunge into the chilly waters at Hanging Rock State Park on New Year’s Day 2019.
We’ve gathered a list of celebrations taking place on December 31 and January 1. Come join us! And share more listings on our Facebook page.

STOKES COUNTY, NC
Looking for an adventurous way to kick off 2019? Check out the 5th annual Hanging Rock Polar Plunge. Participants brave enough to “take the plunge” will enjoy endless food and beverage consisting of hot dogs, chili, chicken stew, coffee and hot chocolate, as well as a refreshing dip into the spring fed lake with a plunge time temperature between 40 and 45 degrees. Participants are also encouraged to dress in costume with prize categories including best youth, best individual, and best group awards. Concessions will also be available for purchase for non-participant spectators.
ROCKINGHAM COUNTY, NC
2019 New Year’s Eve Party With The Catalinas
Bring in the New Year with friends, family, dance, and great music by The Catalinas at the Wright Memorial Event Center. Enjoy a great spread of finger foods with a complimentary champagne toast to end your night included in your ticket price.
New Year’s Eve Watch Night Service
Eden Baptist Church, The Boulevard, Eden, Monday, December 31, 8:00 pm. Special preaching and singing.
FRANKLIN COUNTY, VA
Creek Freaks New Year’s Day Float
Join the Creek Freaks for a New Year’s Day tradition. This family friendly float on the Blackwater River is an exhilarating way to start the new year. Ages 14 and under must have adult supervision. Dress appropriately for the weather and brig your own boat. Please meet at the put in on New Plant Road off of Grassy Hill Road. Life jackets and PFD’s are mandatory. Shuttle will run at 11:30 am.
PATRICK COUNTY, VA
After a warm reception with wine and canapés, you’ll enjoy a sumptuous dinner at Elements on New Year’s Eve. Then dance the night away to the lively music of the Domino Band while enjoying scrumptious desserts and a champagne toast at midnight.
The 8th Annual New Year’s Eve Celebration at Fairy Stone State Park will once again be held in Fayerdale Hall beginning at 9:30 p.m. until 12:30 a.m. You and your friends can dance, laugh, and ring the new year in to the sounds of a local DJ. Party favors and refreshments provided. Punch will be available for the midnight toast or you may bring your own adult beverage (beer or wine only please).
HENRY COUNTY, VA
New Year’s Day Get Outside Ride-Walk-Run
Start your 2019 off right with the Henry County Bike Club! Wake up and get outside and ride, walk or run. However you choose to participate, just get moving! This 5th annual gathering of riders, walkers and runners is being held to encourage everyone to get outside and be active in the new year, while also supporting the Martinsville-Henry County, VA community. For bikers, two different bike routes will be offered to accommodate everyone 16+/- and 30+/-; single tracks at Cedar Ridge for dirt lovers as well as just riding the D&W.
HALIFAX COUNTY, VA
World of Sports Bowling Bash New Year’s Eve
World of Sports Bowling bash with Super Moonlight bowling on New Year’s Eve! Price includes unlimited bowling, party favors and a complementary glass of champagne for a midnight toast. Laser Tag, Go-Karts and Arcade will be available as well so bring the kids.
New Year’s Eve Celebration at Cooper’s Landing Inn
Ring in the New Year with a special celebration at Cooper’s Landing Inn & Traveler’s Tavern. There will be two seatings: 5pm & 9pm. Each seating will consist of a passed hors d’oeuvre reception accompanied by music and a roaring fire in the tavern & a three course Surf-n-Turf dinner. Of course the evening will include a champagne toast, candlelight, and all the special touches like New Year’s Eve favors.

More ways to explore our region
21 places to find yummy pies, cakes and cookies in the Dan River region
7 distilleries where you can revisit the Dan River Basin’s moonshine heritage
Rip-roaring rock climbing in Hanging Rock State Park
6 fun things to do on a rainy day