Originating in West Africa and a portent of good luck, black-eyed peas are essential eating on New Year’s Day. If you want to get your fix in as well as a nice drive, consider heading to Hye for William Chris Vineyard’s annual Black-Eyed Pea Cook-Off. A $50 ticket ($20 children) will pack your plate with Hoppin’ John, braised collards, and more. That ticket also gains you access to live music, lawn games, a welcome glass of wine, a commemorative tee, and the right to taste and vote for the best dish, which is great for anyone who made “be more judgey” a New Year’s resolution for 2025. – Kimberley Jones