Flickr user Anders Andermark
2010 seemed a year of mixed results for Beaufort's citizens.
[Update December 31: Still trying to find something to do? Good new we've added more things below!]
The soaring unemployment rates have remained serious source of concern, while news of VMFA-312's Christmas-homecoming and the announcement of Extreme Makeover: Home Edition's return to the lowcountry provided a much needed 'boost' to the community's moral.
But whether you're marking the start of 2011 with a sense of happy nostalgia for 2010 or a welcome end to your previous misfortunes, we've compiled a list of a few events in the area to ensure that all can enjoy the first moments of the new year in considerable style.
Wren's New Year’s Eve Pre Fix Dinner Menu and special Bar Menu [Added 12/30]
The downtown mainstay is doing a $60 five-course menu with items like cream of wild mushroom soup, poached Alaskan halibut, and French chocolate petal cup with two seatings at 5:30 and 9; full menu. They'll also have a special bar menu; view it here. 210 Carteret Street. (843) 524-9463.
Bricks on Boundary [Added 12/30]
Bricks on Boundary will be doing a celebration with "gifts, prizes, free toast, and food food food! LIVE MUSIC with S.W.I.G. Short White Irish Guy all night."
Southern Graces New Years Eve Celebration Buffet [Added 12/31]
They're offering up a $45 seated armada of a meal at 6:30, 8:30, and 10:30 with items like Lowcountry Oysters Rockefeller, Butter Poached Lobster & Parmesan Risotto, along with complimentary champagne and party favors; details on Facebook.
Sweetgrass Restaurant and Bar New Year Festivities
Located on Dataw Island, Sweetgrass restaurant is open to all seeking a "relaxed and comfortable New Year's Eve." Planned specials to the menu include crab-topped filet, seared Yellowfin tuna and pork with peppercorn sauce. The nights events will conclude with complimentary champagne and a "ball drop" off the deck overlooking stunning views of the Morgan River. Log onto their website for more information on the owners, their local vendors, or to book a reservation.
(p.s. Make sure to try their home-made banana pudding for dessert!)
Founders' Night Celebration at Waterfront Park
The city of Beaufort looks to kick off their tricentennial year with an unforgettable celebration at the historic Waterfront Park, hosting live entertainment and fireworks between 4:30-6:00pm on New Years Eve. The event is designed for families, and is scheduled early enough for those interested enjoy the nights events before dinner and the 'real' celebrations begin. For a complete list of Beaufort's tricentennial events, make sure to log onto their website.
City Loft Hotel New Years Overnighter
The trendy City Loft Hotel is located in downtown Beaufort, making a prime location for those looking to escape for the weekend and enjoy some of the best restaurants events Beaufort has to offer--just drop off your bags and enjoy some champagne, a cheese plate, and a $20 gift card to City Java (which is a Digitel.com favorite company) for one flat rate. Log onto their website for rate information, to book a room, or to learn more about the exciting deals they have on offer.
Saltus River Grill Celebration 2010
For $50 plus-tax, the Saltus River Grill on Beaufort's historic Bay street is offering a four-course, New Years Eve special dinner. Their signature Signature Crab and Lobster Bisque, Gilled Beef Tenderloin, Butter Poached Maine Lobster, and Chocolate Mouse Cake are just a few of the selections on offer. To book a reservation log onto their website or call them at (843) 379-3474.
Breakwater Restaurant and Bar
Executive Chef Gary Lang is offering regular dinner service before the renowned Beaufort restaurant hosts their annual midnight Champagne tasting event. Voted "the best fine dining restaurant in Beaufort" by the readers of the Gazette, and awarded the "2010 diners' choice" by Opentable.com, make sure to book your reservation today through their website to take part in some of the best Beaufort has to offer.
January 1st
(Yes, there's more.)
3rd Annual Pelican Plunge on Hunting Island
Looking to start the new year with a clean slate and shock to your system? Try out a dip in the Atlantic Ocean on pristine Hunting Island -- or maybe just come out to watch. The fun happens at Hunting Island's Lighthouse (North) Beach at noon. Log onto their website for details.
Bluffton New Years Day Polar Bear 5k Run
Admittedly, while most county residents are likely to remain indoors after a hectic New Years Eve, Bluffton's 4th annual 5k is expected to draw a large crowd of county residents. The run will start and end at Sea Turtle Cinemas, looping around Buckwalter Parkway, onto the Bluffton Parkway and through Buckwalter Place in the process. The run starts at 10am. Log onto their website for registration details.
Hoppin' John and Collard Greens [Added 12/31]
I'm sure there are many spots in town serving up this dish, but the only one I know for sure is the Cat Island Grill and Pub that's doing a New Year's Day buffet. (843) 524-4653.
Better eat 'em if you want luck and money in 2011.
Did we miss something? Let us know in the comments down below.
