What would New Year’s Eve be without a party? Well, we’ve got you covered. As one of the top Helen, GA events for New Year’s, the celebration at Unicoi State Park & Lodge attracts guests from all over the country.

But the fun to be had in the North Georgia mountains doesn’t begin and end with the annual December 31 bash. There are many ways to heat up the winter at Unicoi State Park & Lodge.

Have A Ball 

As one of the most popular nights at Unicoi State Park & Lodge, the annual New Year’s Eve party is a can’t-miss event. A reference to the area’s Prohibition-era moonshine culture, the evening is billed as a “Bootleggers Ball.” Headlined by the wildly popular band No Big Deal, the event will include a dinner buffet featuring carved prime rib and pasta station, party favors and a midnight champagne toast.

There are two great ways to join the party this year. Our Overnight Package includes dinner for two and a lodge room, plus the party favors, champagne toast and preferred ballroom seating. The convenience of this $225 all-inclusive package, namely the short walk to your room after the celebration, beats any Helen, GA hotel option this time of year.

For guests who want to stay in our on-site Helen, GA cabin rentals, the Dinner Package may work best. At $50 per person, this package includes, of course, dinner, party favors and a champagne toast. If you still want to enjoy the party but would like to spend the night with a group in the only State Park cabins in Helen, GA, book your stay and reserve your spot today.

Take the Plunge

There are a lot of activities at our North Georgia State Park that aren’t for the faint of heart. From ziplining to mountain biking, we take our fun to the next level. For example, we think the transition from one year to the next should be commemorated with a refreshing dip in the crisp, clean waters of Unicoi Lake.

Every winter, more than 100 participants and spectators gather along the beach of Unicoi Lake on December 28th at 10 a.m., to brave the chilly weather and water at the annual Polar Bear Plunge. Open to individuals and families, the event is organized by the Friends of Unicoi State Park, a public group that supports the park through a variety of initiatives and events. The Polar Bear Plunge features hot chocolate and a large bonfire on the beach to keep everyone warm, whether they’re taking the commemorative plunge or staying on dry land.

Register early for $10 per person or $25 per family and send an email to friendsofunicoistatepark@gmail.com to sign up yourself or family today. In addition, you may register the day of the event at 9:30 a.m. for $10 per person or $30 per family. Be sure to get there early.

Start 2020 on the Right Foot

Once 2020 arrives, there won’t be a better way to start off the new year on the right foot than our First Day Hike. A national initiative by America’s state parks, the First Day Hike is a way for families and friends to commit to healthier living on the first day of the year by getting out in nature on Day One.

Unicoi State Park’s hike follows the 2.5-mile Lake Loop Trail and is a great trek for all ages. Pets are welcome as well, provided they are on leashes 6-feet or shorter. While the $5 vehicle parking fee applies to access the park, this organized activity is completely free. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and warm clothing. The hiking group will meet at the Visitors Center at 1 p.m. Participants will receive a commemorative hiking stick medallion, sticker or pin.