OLD ORCHARD BEACH — Beach bonfires, fireworks, carousel rides, and a plunge into the Atlantic Ocean are what’s in store for New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.

Local nonprofit OOB365 is ringing in the new year with its annual “Last Blast” New Year’s Eve party at the beach near the town square.

Festivities begin at 5 p.m., according to information from the organization’s website. Event-goers are invited to bring their Christmas trees to dispose of and fuel the bonfire. There will also be music, marshmallow toasting and hot chocolate. Fireworks begin at 7:30 p.m.

The Palace Playland carousel and arcade will be open for the evening, with proceeds benefiting the Old Orchard Beach Community Food Pantry.

On New Year’s Day, thrill seekers and do-gooders alike can splash into the ocean for the 27th annual Lobster Dip, what Special Olympics Maine calls its largest annual fundraiser.

Participants line up on the beach behind The Brunswick hotel, and at noon, they run into the water, and usually run right back out as quickly as they went in. In recent years, the event has drawn more than 300 participants annually, and typically attracts a large group of spectators.

Lobster Dippers can sign up by themselves or as part of a team. Some make the event more festive by coming in costume. A post-dip party will be held at The Brunswick.

Participants must raise at least $100, according to registration information.

For information on the Lobster Dip or pre-registration, go to www.specialolympicsmaine.org or call 879-0489. Registration the day of the event runs from 9-11:30 a.m. at The Brunswick, 39 West Grand Ave.

Organizers advise people come early to find parking.

— Staff Writer Liz Gotthelf can be contacted at 282-1535, ext. 325 or [email protected].