Polar Bear Swim, Mini Golf, First Day Hikes & More Weekend Plans

From the annual polar bear swim in Jacksonport to a frosty mini golf tournament in Ephraim (not to forget Egg Harbor’s yearly New Year’s Day Parade), we’ve got the top picks to start your 2016 off right!

Friday, January 1

Jacksonport Polar Bear Swim

Take a plunge in the brisk waters of Lake Michigan for the 30th annual Jacksonport Polar Bear Swim and support Feed and Clothe My People of Door County in the (frigid) process. Registration begins at 10:30 am and the “swim” starts at noon.

Frostbite Open at the Red Putter

Jumping into Lake Michigan’s winter waters not your style? Maintain your dedication to the great outdoors with the Red Putter’s Frostbite Open, a two-round open mini golf tournament with cash prizes, trophies, hot drinks and chili! Registration begins at 10 am and the tourney starts at 2 pm.

First Day Hikes in Door County

Start the New Year with an outdoor adventure at Peninsula State Park or Crossroad’s Ida Bay Preserve. Start your 2016 bird list or simply enjoy the camaraderie of fellow hikers.

New Year’s Day Parade

Take in (or take part in) Egg Harbor’s 35th annual New Year’s Day parade. Dress up, bring your pets, decorate an old car or go wild with your imagination in this free-for-all tradition. Lineup begins at Stella Maris Parish and the parade steps off at 1 pm.

Saturday, January 2

Books and Crafts at The Ridges

The Ridges Sanctuary will kick off its winter programming with a Saturday Story Hour featuring Dr. Seuss’ children’s book The Lorax. After the book is read, stick around to make a truffula tree (a species of tree in the book) and enjoy hot chocolate. 11 am.

Sunday, January 3

Logan Creek Hike

Enjoy a quiet Sunday on the Door Peninsula with a hike at the Ridges’ 170-acre Logan Creek parcel. Take in the sights and sounds of the isolated winter woods and a variety of natural habitats. 2 pm.