If you know Folly Beach at all, you’ll know that we’re a little, shall we say, quirky. So, when it comes to our New Year’s festivities, you wouldn’t expect us to do what everyone else does, would you? Here’s how New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day go on Folly Beach.
NEW YEAR’S EVE FIREWORKS: Starting at 7pm on the West side of the island, you can enjoy a fabulous New Year’s fireworks display. Walk from your favorite Folly Beach hotel, Water’s Edge Inn, down to the beach. Maybe stop for a hot cup of coffee or cocoa, then set yourself up on the beach to kick off the night of celebration.
THE ANNUAL FLIP-FLOP DROP: At 10pm that night, Center Street will be closed to automobile traffic so revelers can gather on the street to prepare to ring in the new year. High above the crowd will dangle a giant, sparkly pair of flip-flops (the official footwear of Folly). As midnight nears, the flip-flops will begin their descent to mark the stroke of midnight. If you’re up for something a little more savory, hop over to Woody’s Pizza, where they will be hosting their annual meatball drop.
BILL MURRAY LOOK-A-LIKE POLAR BEAR PLUNGE: On the morning of January 1, locals and visitors gather for the Polar Bear Plunge to take a dip into the barely chilly Atlantic. But on Folly, we use this opportunity to pay homage to one of our favorite hometown heroes, Bill Murray. Plungers dress as their favorite Bill Murray character (or any other wild get-up they feel like wearing!) and compete in a costume contest starting at 12:30. Then everyone takes the plunge at 1:30.
Due to the tide, our plunge is happening later than usual this year, which means a few more hours of sleep for you. You’re welcome. Afterward, head into any of Folly Beach’s bars or restaurants for a little hair-of-the-dog, live music, and another day of fun.
Book your stay at Water’s Edge Inn now and do your New Year celebration the Folly way!
