Door County New Year's 2026: Your Complete Guide

Ring in 2026 on Wisconsin's picturesque Door County peninsula, where a sparkling 300-pound cherry drops at midnight, hundreds brave icy Lake Michigan waters on New Year's Day, and cozy fireside dining awaits at every turn. This guide covers everything you need to plan your holiday getaway—from the signature Sister Bay Cherry Drop to polar plunges, upscale dining reservations, winter outdoor adventures, and romantic lodging packages across all Door County communities.

Whether you're seeking family-friendly celebrations, couples' retreats, or adventurous outdoor experiences, Door County offers a distinctly Wisconsin way to welcome the new year. The peninsula's combination of small-town charm, natural beauty, and year-round hospitality makes it an ideal destination for a memorable holiday escape.

Sister Bay Cherry Drop headlines New Year's Eve

The 9th Annual Cherry Drop in Sister Bay stands as Door County's premier New Year's Eve celebration and the only fireworks display in the county on December 31st. This free, family-friendly event transforms downtown Sister Bay into a festive gathering spot that draws visitors from across the Midwest.

The evening unfolds in two acts. At 8:00 PM, fireworks illuminate the sky above the Teresa K. Hilander Community Ice Rink at Sister Bay Sports Complex (2155 Autumn Court), where families can enjoy ice skating and warm up by a bonfire. Then at 10:30 PM, the party shifts to downtown Sister Bay at the corner of Bay Shore Drive and Mill Road, where FM 106.9 The Lodge broadcasts live music from Husby's Garage Bar.

At the stroke of midnight, a 6-foot, 300-pound illuminated cherry descends from 120 feet above Husby's Garage Bar—Door County's answer to Times Square's ball drop. A new "cherry cam" livestream this year captures the celebration from the cherry's perspective for those watching remotely at fm1069thelodge.com/cherry-drop.

Practical details for planning:

• Free shuttle bus operates 5:00 PM–2:00 AM throughout Sister Bay

• Road detour between Husby's and Sister Bay Bowl runs 10:30 PM–12:30 AM

• DJ Brawny plays inside Husby's from 11:00 PM–2:00 AM (21+ for bar entry)

• Downtown shops offer extended hours with special holiday promotions

• Trilliant Diamonds photo station and cherry-themed cocktails add festive touches

Live music, parties, and entertainment

Beyond Sister Bay's main celebration, venues throughout Door County host their own New Year's Eve festivities with live music and themed parties.

Stone Harbor Resort in Sturgeon Bay throws its annual NYE Bash at Brygga Plates and Pours (107 N. 1st Ave). Starting at 9:00 PM, the country-rock band Stone Sober performs while guests enjoy waterfront views and full bar service. Contact: 920-746-0700.

The Log Den in Egg Harbor (6626 Hwy 42) features Door County's beloved Modern Day Drifters—a five-piece country and rock powerhouse—playing from 8:30 PM to 12:30 AM. The venue offers a special New Year's Eve dinner menu and a dance floor for those looking to celebrate with energy. Contact: 920-868-3888.

For a more intimate celebration, Cherry Lanes Arcade Bar in downtown Sturgeon Bay (127 N. 4th Ave) hosts DJ Mindham spinning party tunes from 9:00 PM to 1:00 AM. The arcade gaming adds a nostalgic twist to the evening. This venue is 21+. Contact: 920-818-0093.

Early celebration for families: Mixed Meadia and Hatch Distilling Co. in Egg Harbor (7740 Hwy 42) offers a clever alternative with their French New Year's Celebration from 3:00–6:00 PM. At 5:00 PM, they count down to midnight in Champagne, France, complete with a free champagne toast—perfect for families with young children who won't make it to midnight. Contact: 920-543-3800.

Where to dine on New Year's Eve

Reservations fill quickly for New Year's Eve dinner in Door County, so booking two to three weeks in advance is essential. Options range from white-tablecloth steakhouses to cozy historic inns.

Upscale dining for couples

CHOP Steakhouse (2329 Mill Road, Sister Bay) serves as Sister Bay's premier steakhouse with a newly renovated display kitchen and lake views. Open December 26–January 3 from 4:30 PM, they offer an early dining three-course menu starting at $34.95 alongside their full à la carte selections. Happy hour runs 4:30–6:00 PM. Contact: 920-854-2700.

Thyme Restaurant (10339 N Hwy 57, Sister Bay) creates a special New Year's Eve prix fixe menu featuring their acclaimed contemporary American, farm-to-table cuisine. Hours run Monday–Saturday from 4:30 PM (closed Sundays). Note: Thyme is closed January 1st. Contact: 920-421-5113.

Donny's Glidden Lodge Restaurant near Baileys Harbor offers Midwestern fine dining with Lake Michigan views, specializing in Black Angus steaks, lobster, and German specialties. Winter hours: Monday–Thursday 4:00–8:00 PM, Friday–Saturday 4:00–9:00 PM, closed Sundays. Contact: 920-746-9460.

Alexander's Restaurant in Fish Creek (3667 State Highway 42) has served American fine dining—steaks, seafood, pasta—for over 20 years. Winter hours: Tuesday–Saturday, bar opens 4:00 PM, dinner at 5:00 PM.

Dining with entertainment

Brygga Plates and Pours at Stone Harbor Resort combines dinner with live music during their NYE bash. The waterfront setting in Sturgeon Bay offers both celebration and cuisine in one location.

The Log Den pairs their special NYE menu with live music from the Modern Day Drifters, making it ideal for guests who want dinner and dancing without changing venues.

Casual options open late

White Gull Inn (4225 Main Street, Fish Creek) provides a cozy, historic atmosphere in an 1896 inn. Known for candlelit dinners and their famous Door County fish boils (offered Fridays in winter), they traditionally serve champagne to guests on New Year's Eve. Contact: 920-868-3517.

Husby's Food & Spirits offers Mexican and American cuisine in a casual setting, with a kids' menu for earlier family dining before the late-night Cherry Drop celebration takes over. Contact: 920-854-2624.

New Year's Day kicks off with polar plunges and parades

January 1, 2026 brings Door County's most cherished traditions: icy Lake Michigan plunges and a wonderfully quirky small-town parade.

Jacksonport Polar Bear Plunge marks 40 years

The 40th Annual Jacksonport Polar Bear Plunge at Lakeside Park (6296 Lake Park Dr., Jacksonport) is Door County's flagship New Year's Day tradition. Founded in 1986 by J.R. Jarosh, this event now draws 500+ swimmers who brave Lake Michigan's frigid waters.

Key details:

• Time: 12:00 PM sharp (arrive by 11:00 AM for parking)

• Registration: Opens 10:30 AM at the park shelter closest to the lake

• Cost: Free to participate (waiver required—download at jacksonportpolarbearclub.com)

• Merchandise: Commemorative T-shirts ($25), sweatshirts ($40), patches available

• Tips: Wear protective footwear like old tennis shoes or aqua socks; bring warm, dry boots and a blanket to sit on afterward

• Donations: Collection buckets support the Jacksonport Volunteer Fire Department

Contact: 920-360-4643 | jacksonportpolarbearclub.com

Waterfront Mary's Polar Plunge

For a second plunge option, Waterfront Mary's (3662 N. Duluth Ave., Sturgeon Bay) hosts their own noon plunge with a social atmosphere. Doors open at 10:00 AM with loaded Bloody Marys and hot cocoa available. Plungers receive a free T-shirt, and proceeds benefit the Nasewaupee Fire and Rescue Department. Contact: 920-743-3690.

Egg Harbor's wonderfully quirky New Year's Day Parade

The 44th Annual Egg Harbor New Year's Day Parade at 1:00 PM embodies Door County's playful spirit. This free-form, no-registration-required parade invites anyone to participate—on foot, with pets, in costumes, or aboard decorated vehicles ranging from motorcycles to construction equipment.

Parade details:

• Route: North through downtown Egg Harbor on Highway 42, from Harbor School Road to County Highway E

• Lineup location: Stella Maris Parish, 7710 Hwy 42

• Parking: Church Street

• Cost: Free to watch or participate

The parade's motto: participants are "limited only by ingenuity and practicality." Local businesses offer food and warm drinks to spectators.

Peninsula State Park First Day Hike

Join the Friends of Peninsula State Park for a guided First Day Hike meeting at 10:00 AM at the White Cedar Nature Center. The 30-45 minute hike welcomes all ages and fitness levels. State park vehicle admission applies ($8 daily Wisconsin resident, $11 non-resident).

Where to eat on New Year's Day

Many Door County restaurants close on January 1st, making advance planning crucial. Call ahead to confirm hours.

Al Johnson's Swedish Restaurant (10698 N Bay Shore Dr., Sister Bay) offers the best bet for New Year's Day breakfast. Famous for its grass-roofed building (with goats in summer) and Swedish pancakes with lingonberries, Al Johnson's opens 7:00 AM–3:00 PM daily year-round. No reservations accepted—expect waits. Contact: 920-854-2626.

White Gull Inn typically remains open year-round and serves award-winning breakfasts, including their Cherry Stuffed French Toast that won Good Morning America's Best Breakfast competition. Contact to confirm NYD hours: 920-868-3517.

Stone Harbor Resort's Brygga offers breakfast service for guests and visitors at their Sturgeon Bay waterfront location. Contact: 877-746-0700.

Lodge and resort packages for New Year's Eve

Several Door County properties offer special packages that combine accommodations with NYE celebrations.

Properties with on-site NYE events

Pheasant Park Resort (2236 Mill Road, Sister Bay) hosts a New Year's Eve Buffet with toasts, party favors, and hors d'oeuvres for guests. The property features 2- and 3-bedroom suites with full kitchens and fireplaces, indoor and outdoor heated pools, and sits just a 10-minute walk from downtown Sister Bay's Cherry Drop. Rates from $159/night. Contact: 920-854-7287.

Stone Harbor Resort (107 N. 1st Ave., Sturgeon Bay) combines 161 waterfront rooms with their NYE Bash featuring Stone Sober. Amenities include indoor and outdoor pools, whirlpool, fitness center, and rooms with fireplaces and kitchens. Contact: 920-746-0700.

Romance and special occasion packages

Open Hearth Lodge (2669 S. Bay Shore Drive, Sister Bay) offers a Winter Romance Package from December through March:

• Lodge Room: $390 + taxes

• Whirlpool/Premium Room: $430 + taxes

• 1-Bedroom Suite: $480 + taxes

• Includes Winter Trolley Tour for two (4-5 hour narrated wine, spirits, or chocolate tour)

• Add-ons: Celebration package ($35) with sparkling wine and chocolate, or Special Occasion package ($110) with gift basket and dining card

Contact: 920-854-4890.

White Gull Inn (4225 Main Street, Fish Creek) offers a Winter Package Sunday–Thursday through April 30, 2026: stay 2 nights and receive one complimentary candlelight dinner; stay 3 nights for two dinners. Their Progressive Holiday Dinner Weekend (January 2-3, 2026) includes two nights lodging, wine reception, horse-drawn carriage ride, and four-course gourmet dinner for regular room rate plus $148/person. Contact: 920-868-3517.

Sand Bay Beach Resort (3798 Sand Bay Point Rd., Sturgeon Bay) features an "Immerse Yourself in Christmas Cheer" package through January 11, 2026: stay 3 nights, receive the 4th night free, with suites decorated for the holidays, cookie dough or gingerbread kit, hot chocolate, and Christmas movie library access. The property sits on a 300-foot private sand beach with indoor pool, sauna, and jacuzzi.

Major resorts for winter stays

Landmark Resort (4929 Landmark Drive, Egg Harbor) is Door County's largest condo resort with 294 one-, two-, and three-bedroom suites. All units feature full kitchens, and the 40-acre property includes an indoor pool open 24/7, hot tubs, sauna, and on-site restaurant. Rates from $116/night. Contact: 920-868-3205.

Westwood Shores (4303 Bay Shore Drive, Sturgeon Bay) offers 38 waterfront suites, each with bay views, gas fireplace, whirlpool tub, full kitchen, and private deck. Indoor and outdoor heated pools and fitness center round out the amenities. Rates from $99–$349/night. Contact: 920-746-4057.

Lodge at Leathem Smith (1640 Memorial Dr., Sturgeon Bay) provides 63 rooms including 18 luxury suites with fireplaces and hot tubs, complimentary breakfast with chef-made omelettes, and the on-site Kona Bay Fish House restaurant. Off-season rates: $69–$229/night. Contact: 920-743-5555.

Cozy cottage and cabin rentals

For larger groups or those seeking privacy, Door County's cabin rentals offer wood-burning stoves and winter charm.

Door County Cottages in Egg Harbor features 6 cabins on 15 wooded acres, sleeping 2-16 guests. Each cabin includes wood-burning stoves, radiant floor heating, full kitchens, and outdoor fire pits. Their Lodge cabin (4,000 sq. ft.) accommodates up to 16 guests—ideal for extended family gatherings. Pet-friendly. Website: doorcountycottages.com.

Loma Cottages between Egg Harbor, Fish Creek, and Baileys Harbor offers boutique vacation cottages with wood-burning stoves, full kitchens, and orchard views. Holiday special: 20% off with code CHEER20 through January 4, 2026 (2-night minimum). Contact: 920-454-0923.

The Rushes in Baileys Harbor provides free snowshoe and cross-country ski use for guests—a valuable perk for winter visitors.

Winter outdoor adventures across Door County

Door County's state parks transform into winter wonderlands with groomed trails, and local outfitters provide all necessary equipment.

Cross-country skiing

Peninsula State Park (Fish Creek) offers the premier skiing experience with 16+ miles of groomed, one-way trails ranging from easy to difficult. A warming house near Lot 5 on Highland Road provides relief from the cold. Note: pets, hiking, and snowshoeing are not permitted on ski trails.

Potawatomi State Park (Sturgeon Bay) and Newport State Park (Ellison Bay) each maintain approximately 5 miles of designated ski trails. Newport also holds Wisconsin's first Dark Sky Park designation—ideal for evening stargazing after a day on the trails.

Whitefish Dunes State Park grooms the Red, Yellow, and Yellow Spur trails when conditions permit.

Equipment rental: Nor Door Sport & Cyclery in Fish Creek rents cross-country skis, snowshoes, and sledding tubes. Contact: 920-868-2275.

Snowshoeing

Peninsula State Park designates 4+ miles specifically for snowshoeing, including the White Cedar, Minnehaha, Sentinel, and Niagara trails. Newport and Potawatomi state parks each offer approximately 5 miles of snowshoe-friendly terrain.

The Ridges Sanctuary in Baileys Harbor welcomes winter hiking and snowshoeing through its unique boreal forest ecosystem.

Ice fishing on Green Bay

Door County's ice fishing season runs late December through March, targeting whitefish, walleye, perch, northern pike, and burbot. Several outfitters offer fully guided experiences:

Reel Action Charters provides fully guided days at $120/person or "Dark to Dark Super Days" at $165/person, including 6 heated ice houses with wood stoves and transportation via tracked Polaris Ranger. Contact: 920-360-2136.

Bay Lake Charters offers semi-guided trips at $400/day for up to 4 people, including transportation, heated shanty, rods, and bait.

Safety reminder: Minimum ice thickness of 4 inches for walking, 5-7 inches for snowmobiles. Always check current conditions.

Ice skating and sledding

The Teresa K. Hilander Community Ice Rink at Sister Bay Sports Complex offers free skating with skate rentals at $6/pair. The adjacent warming house, fire pit, and snack bar create a welcoming family atmosphere. Hockey and broomball equipment available. Note: The rink reopens January 3, 2026 after NYE festivities. Contact: 920-854-4118.

Sturgeon Bay's Memorial Field Complex (307 South 14th Avenue) maintains a free ice rink with free skate lending.

Sledding: Hill 17 at Peninsula State Park provides the area's best sledding, while Sister Bay Sports Complex offers a hill adjacent to the ice rink.

Winter hiking highlights

Cave Point County Park creates spectacular ice formations on its limestone sea caves in winter—a photographer's paradise, especially at sunset. Exercise extreme caution as paths become very slippery, and watch for blowholes.

Peninsula State Park maintains 6 miles of ungroomed winter hiking pathways, while Newport State Park offers 30 miles of total trails (some restricted to skiing/snowshoeing).

Indoor attractions and rainy-day alternatives

When weather turns harsh, Door County's indoor attractions provide engaging alternatives.

Museums

Door County Maritime Museum (120 N. Madison Ave., Sturgeon Bay) showcases the peninsula's shipbuilding and maritime heritage. Winter hours run Thursday–Monday, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM (closed Tuesday–Wednesday). Climb the Jim Kress Maritime Lighthouse Tower for panoramic views, explore shipwreck galleries, and tour the restored tugboat John Purves. Admission: $12 adults, $10 youth/seniors. Contact: 920-743-5958.

Door County Historical Museum (18 N. 4th Avenue, Sturgeon Bay), named "Best Small Museum in the Midwest" by the Chicago Tribune, features a climbable 1920s fire truck and the "Seasons of Life" wildlife diorama with 100+ species. Free admission (donations appreciated). Note: Closed December 15–January 15; reopens January 16. Contact: 920-743-5809.

Wineries and breweries

Several Door County wineries maintain year-round hours:

Door Peninsula Winery (Carlsville) is Door County's original winery with 50+ wines, tours, tastings, and the Door County Distillery on-site. Winter hours: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM daily. Contact: 920-743-7431.

Simon Creek Vineyard & Winery (Sturgeon Bay) offers highly-rated wines with winter hours of 11:00 AM–4:00 PM daily. Contact: 920-746-9307.

Lakefire Winery (Baileys Harbor) is Door County's only waterfront winery. Winter hours: Sunday–Thursday 11:00 AM–8:00 PM, Friday–Saturday 11:00 AM–9:00 PM. Contact: 920-839-9992.

Door County Brewing Co. (Baileys Harbor) serves craft beers year-round with live music on weekend evenings. Contact: 920-839-1515.

Spa and wellness

Spa Verde (Egg Harbor) is Door County's only green spa, using chemical-free natural products for massage, acupuncture, facials, and infrared sauna treatments. Open year-round. Contact: 920-868-9463.

The Spa at Sacred Grounds (Ephraim) offers therapeutic massage, private steam and sauna rooms, and yoga classes by appointment year-round. Contact: 920-854-4733.

Saguaro Day Spa (Sturgeon Bay) features massage services, lounges with fireplaces, and steam therapy. Contact: 920-743-8998.

Planning your trip: practical information

Weather expectations

Door County experiences true winter conditions with average January temperatures of 31°F high, 19°F low and 50-60 inches of annual snowfall due to lake effect from Lake Michigan. Dress in warm layers and pack waterproof boots for outdoor activities.

Holiday hours warning

Many businesses operate on reduced winter schedules, and some close entirely on New Year's Day. Always call ahead to confirm hours, especially for restaurants on January 1st.

State park admission

Wisconsin State Park vehicle admission is required: $8 daily for Wisconsin residents, $11 for non-residents, or purchase an annual pass. Parks are open 6:00 AM–11:00 PM year-round.

Transportation

Door County is best explored by car. The free Sister Bay shuttle on New Year's Eve (5:00 PM–2:00 AM) provides convenient transport between celebrations and lodging.

Reservation recommendations

Book NYE dinner reservations 2-3 weeks in advance. Lodging—especially properties with NYE packages—fills quickly for the holiday period. Most properties require 2-3 night minimum stays.

Creating your perfect Door County New Year's

Door County delivers a New Year's celebration that balances festive community events with peaceful winter beauty. The Sister Bay Cherry Drop provides a centerpiece celebration unique to this peninsula, while January 1st's polar plunges and Egg Harbor parade offer quintessentially Wisconsin ways to start the new year.

For couples, combine a Winter Romance Package at Open Hearth Lodge with fine dining at CHOP and the intimate Cherry Drop countdown. Families can enjoy the 8:00 PM fireworks and ice skating in Sister Bay, then bundle up for the Jacksonport Polar Plunge the next morning. Adventure seekers should book an ice fishing charter and explore Peninsula State Park's groomed ski trails.

Whatever your style, advance reservations for dining and lodging will ensure smooth holiday planning. Door County's smaller scale means limited capacity at popular venues—but also more intimate celebrations and genuine small-town warmth as you ring in 2026.