Start 2026 off right with an activity that sets the tone for the year to come – whatever that means for you. Whether you’d rather relax with a blood orange mimosa or invigorate yourself with a 5K or 10K run, we’ve found a few ideas for getting the new year off to a great start.
Take a First Day Hike
First Day Hikes are a longstanding tradition that encourages people to spend the first day of the new year exploring and enjoying the natural beauty around them. The state Department of Conservation and Recreation will be offering guided hikes at Halibut Point State Park in Rockport, Breakheart Reservation in Saugus, and Harold Parker State Park in North Andover. At Crane Beach, a guided hike through the dunes will welcome in the new year. And if you’re into the idea of hiking, but want an independent ramble, check out our guide to winter hiking in the area.
Birdwatching at Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary, Topsfield
Birdwatching at Joppa Flats Education Center, Newburyport
Start the new year off bright and early with an 8 a.m. birdwatching outing at Mass Audubon’s Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary in Topsfield or its Joppa Flats Education Center in Newburyport. Experienced guides will lead you on a three-hour quest to find feathered friends, learn about bird identification and behaviors, and explore the beautiful sanctuary. Reserve your spot at the Mass Audubon website.
Run a road race, Salem, Salisbury, or Woburn
Hit the ground running in 2025. In Salem, join the four-mile Frosty Four New Year’s Day Race, raising money for scholarships for area high school students. In Salisbury, the Winner’s Circle Running Club’s New Year’s Day Hangover Classic 10K and 5K Road Races include scenic beachfront routes and a post-race party. And in Woburn, the Shamrock New Year’s Day Race race tops off a five-mile run with a potluck lunch.
Brunch at Sogno, Woburn
If running and swimming aren’t your New Year’s Day style, book at cozy booth at Sogno in Woburn for a brunch including Pandoro French toast, sausage and mushroom frittata, vanilla waffles, and favorites from regular menu. Accompany your meal with a Bellini or a Bloody Mary (topped with option bacon or shrimp, if going big is part of your New Year’s resolution). Book your table at sognoitalian.com/new-years-day.
Glide over the Ice at the SBLI Rink at MarketStreet, Lynnfield
Lace up your skates at Market Street in Lynnfield for some frosty New Year’s Day fun. All ages are $12.00 and 3 and under are free – skate rentals are available for an additional cost. After some skating fun grab a bite to eat, a hot chocolate, or even an ice cream cone at one of MarketStreet’s restaurants and cafes.
Champagne Brunch, Inn at Hastings Park, Lexington
Ring in New Year’s Day with some bubbly and an array of scrumptious dishes to feast on including oysters and shrimp cocktail, croissants, salads, omelettes, smoked salmon eggs Benedict, and petite desserts. Reservations can be made from from 11:00am to 3:00pm.