The ball drop marks the beginning of German New Year in Harmony in 2019. Planned events for New Year's Eve in Harmony this year will be the Silvester 5K race, one of several traditions, which will be held virtually, and the Harmony Museum's pork and sauerkraut dinner, which will be carry out.

Two New Year’s Eve traditions in Harmony plan to carry on despite the recent cancellation of events due to COVID-19.

The popular Silvester 5K race, sponsored by the Harmony Parks Board, will still be held, but as a virtual run conducted between Dec. 1 and Dec. 31.

The course remains the same, and course markers will be in place through December. Runners will need to register and keep their own time.

All finishers are encouraged to share their photos on the Harmony Parks Board Facebook page, and all participants will receive a finisher’s medal. If runners can’t make it to Harmony, they can run any 5K course of their choosing at a time convenient to them. There will not be a one-mile run this year.

Harmony Museum’s pork and sauerkraut dinner will also stand — with some changes, of course. It will be available as carry out on Dec. 31. This traditional German meal is said to bring good luck in the upcoming year.

Cost for the dinner is $14 and includes roast pork, sauerkraut, homemade mashed potatoes, gravy, green beans, a roll and cookie. The meal will be available for curbside pickup between 2 and 6 p.m.

To reserve a meal and a pick up time, visit HarmonyMuseum.org, or call 724-452-7341. Reservations must be made by Dec. 23.