Happy New Year South Jersey. We’re plunging into 2026 with your go-to guide on all the hottest happenings in our area, from a night of revelry to a cold dip in the Atlantic Ocean, along with magical entertainment, yacht rock and more. Read all about it in the Top Weekly Entertainment Picks.
What: First Night Ocean City
When: Wednesday, Dec. 31
- Time: 4 p.m.-12 a.m.
Website: www.firstnightocnj.com
There’s still time to pick up your button for Ocean City’s family-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration. This event welcomes more than 70 events at 20 venues throughout town, including a Motown tribute at the Music Pier, the Sensational Soul Cruisers at the Civic Center, the Harlem Wizards, Pete the Cat and Streetlife Serenade at the High School, Vince & Friends at the Tabernacle and Salazar Illusionist at the Primary School. Buttons can be purchased at the Welcome Center.
What: New Year’s Eve Free Party
Where: Golden Nugget Atlantic City
When: Wednesday, Dec. 31
- Time: 6 p.m.-12 a.m.
Website: www.goldennugget.com/atlantic-city/entertainment/upcoming-events/nye-free-party
Still making plans for New Year’s Eve? Golden Nugget is hosting a free celebration in the Main Atrium. Enjoy live entertainment all night long with Bar None performing live at 6 p.m. and Run Down Romeo at 10 p.m.
What: New Year’s Eve Allstar Comedy
Where: The Claridge Hotel
When: Wednesday, Dec. 31
- Time: 9 p.m.
Website: https://events.massivetix.com/e/nye-claridge
Laugh out loud into 2026 with an evening of top-notch comedy featuring an all-star lineup of the region’s funniest comics. The event will be hosted by veteran comedian and producer Matt Bridgestone, whose credits include writing for the Justin Bieber Roast on Comedy Central. Doors open at 8 p.m. and the event is open to ages 16 and up.
Who: Goo Goo Dolls
Where: Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena
When: Wednesday, Dec. 31
- Time: 10 p.m.
Website: https://casino.hardrock.com/atlantic-city/event-calendar/goo-goo-dolls
Spend this New Year’s Eve with the Goo Goo Dolls. Ring in 2026 with an unforgettable evening of music and incredible energy. Hear one of America’s most iconic bands as they perform their signature hits, including “Iris,” “Slide” and “Name.”
What: Brigantine Polar Bear Plunge
Where: 16th and 17th Street Beach
When: Thursday, Jan. 1
- Time: 12 p.m.
Website: www.facebook.com/BrigantinePolarBearPlunge
Join the fun this Thursday as the Brigantine Polar Bears host their annual fundraiser for the Fisher House Foundation. The event begins with a Veterans’ Salute at 11 a.m., followed by an icy ocean dip at 12 p.m.
What: Margate Polar Bear Plunge
Where: Essex Ave. Beach
When: Thursday, Jan. 1
- Time: 12 p.m.
Hosted by Robert’s Place, this annual event welcomes thousands to the Margate Fishing Pier for an ice-cold dip in the ocean. Pre- and post-plunge festivities will be held at Robert’s Place, with proceeds benefiting the Wounded Warrior Project.
What: Ventnor Polar Plunge and Winter Festival
Where: Newport Avenue and the Beach
When: Thursday, Jan. 1
- Time: 12-4 p.m.
Website: https://www.ventnorcity.org/events/89840/
Join Ventnor City’s annual Polar Bear Plunge this New Year’s Day at 1 p.m. Enjoy a cold dip into the Atlantic Ocean to kick off the year, then head to St. James Memorial Hall at Newport and Atlantic Ave. for the annual Winter Festival, featuring food, music, games, family fun and a chili cook-off.
Who: Nomad
Where: The Pool at Harrah’s
When: Friday, Jan. 2
- Time: 11 p.m.
Website: www.harrahspoolac.com/event/nomad-at-the-pool-after-dark-168905
Planning for a night out this Friday? Dive into one of Atlantic City’s ultimate nightlife experiences and join The Pool After Dark as they welcome NOMAD for a night of world-class music and a vibrant atmosphere.
Who: Yacht Kingz
Where: The Wave at Golden Nugget
When: Saturday, Jan. 3
- Time: 8 p.m.
Website: www.goldennugget.com/atlantic-city/nightlife/the-wave/retro-saturdays
Does the cold weather have you dreaming of sunshine and laid-back beach vibes? If so, grab your captain’s hat and enjoy an evening of smooth sounds as the Yacht Kingz present their Yacht Rock Tribute to the masters of ’70s and ’80s soft rock, from Steely Dan to Michael McDonald and Christopher Cross.
What: ICW: No Holds Barred
Where: Anchor Rock Club
When: Saturday, Jan. 3
- Time: 8 p.m.
Website: www.anchorrockclub.com
This Saturday, ICW presents a night of professional wrestling in Atlantic City during its sold-out No Holds Barred Sixth Anniversary event. The program will be headlined by a title match featuring John Wayne Murdoch and Bear Bronson.
What: The Hook
Where: Caesars Atlantic City
- When: Friday, Jan. 2 and Saturday, Jan. 3, 7 and 9:30 p.m.
Website: www.spiegelworld.com/shows/the-hook
Catch one of Atlantic City’s high-octane residencies this week. “The Hook” transports audiences back to the Boardwalk’s golden age of entertainment with an outstanding lineup of performances and jaw-dropping acrobatics, mixed with unforgettable moments and comedy. The show is for audiences 18 and over and runs 75 minutes without interruption.
