Kick off the New Year with these Newport County events

Will Richmond, Newport Daily News
·3 min read

With Christmas now behind us, the focus turns to the New Year.

With New Year's Eve on a Saturday, it means there will be plenty going on during the long holiday weekend to celebrate in a variety of ways. From Polar Plunges to hikes to parties, there's something for everyone to start off the year.

Here's a look at some options in Newport County and one outside of the county to keep you busy this weekend.

Polar plunges

The Warwick-based A Wish Come True, the oldest wish-granting organization in Rhode Island and Massachusetts, will host its annual Polar Plunge at Easton’s Beach on Sunday, Jan. 1, from noon to 3 p.m. Arrive early, as parking will be limited.

There will also be a pre-event buffet and post-plunge reception for participants and guests at Rejects Beer Company, 124 Aquidneck Ave., Middletown.

The annual Polar Plunge at Easton's Beach in Newport, Rhode Island, was held on Jan. 1, 2022. The event benefits the Warwick-based nonprofit organization A Wish Come True.
The annual Polar Plunge at Easton's Beach in Newport, Rhode Island, was held on Jan. 1, 2022. The event benefits the Warwick-based nonprofit organization A Wish Come True.

The Tiverton Yacht Club is also sponsoring its 11th Penguin Plunge at Grinnell's Beach on Sunday, Jan. 1. The public is invited to gather on the beach at approximately 11:45 a.m. and take the plunge into the Sakonnet River at noon. As in previous years, the Penguin Plunge supports the Tiverton Public Library through donations from participantsand supporters who watch the event from the shore.

Though not required for participation, penguins are encouraged to obtain library donations in advance. Pledge forms will be available at the Tiverton Public Library at 34 Roosevelt Ave. or online at www.tivertonlibrary.org. All pledge forms and donations should be brought to the beach at the time of the event, and donations in any amount are appreciated. Please make checks payable to Tiverton Library Foundation. All contributions are tax deductible.

First Day Hike

The Department of Environmental Management (DEM) invites Rhode Islanders to kick off 2023 and celebrate the New Year by joining a #FirstDayHike at Fort Wetherill State Park in Jamestown on Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. First Day Hikes are part of a nationwide initiative led by America’s State Parks to encourage people to get outdoors. Last year, nearly 85,000 people rang in the New Year, collectively hiking over 176,366 miles throughout the country on the hikes. This hike, the seventh such event DEM has hosted, is set for 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

DEM will be offering commemorative pins to participants. Divisions of the DEM Natural Resources Bureau will be on hand offering information about agency programs and services. Leashed dogs are allowed if the leash is no longer than 6 feet. A local historian will be on site offering education about Fort Wetherill. Children must be always accompanied by an adult. The 1.2-mile walk is wheelchair accessible and stroller-friendly.

Indulge on New Year's Eve

There will be celebrations across Newport County, including dinners and parties at resorts such as Hotel Viking, OceanCliff, Newport Harbor Island Resort and The Chanler. Check with each location for reservations and details.

Or enjoy live music, DJs and dueling pianos at One Pelham East or live music at the Newport Blues Club.

Last chance for Christmas in Newport events

With schools on vacation, some events have extended hours throughout the week, but this weekend will be the last chance for many holiday events that have been running as part of the annual Christmas in Newport festivities. So bundle up and head outside to get those final jolly moments. Visit http://christmasinnewport.org/ for the full schedule.

The Breakers is lit up in a festive green as part of the Sparkling Lights at the Breakers.
The Breakers is lit up in a festive green as part of the Sparkling Lights at the Breakers.

Spend New Year's Eve with the stars

On New Year's Eve, Frosty Drew Observatory in Charlestown will open from 7 to 9 p.m. for a quick window of stargazing to help ring in the New Year with views of the beautiful night sky over Ninigret Park. On the list will be Uranus, Albireo, the Orion Nebula and possibly a comet.

Additionally, the town of Charlestown will be hosting the annual New Year's Eve bonfire in the park starting at 4:30 p.m.

Check out the webpage for Visiting Frosty Drew Observatory to learn more about what to expect at the Observatory and better help you prepare for your visit.

This article originally appeared on Newport Daily News: Kick off the New Year with these Newport County events