Fireworks, Ball Drops, Parties: Tampa Bay New Year’s Eve 2024 Events

TAMPA BAY, FL — If you’re still looking for a fun way to ring in the new year Tuesday night, there are plenty of events scheduled across the greater Tampa Bay area.

These include the iconic Pineapple Drop in Sarasota and Plant City’s first-ever Strawberry Drop at midnight, dazzling fireworks displays near the Hillsborough River and along the Gulf beaches, and plenty of family-friendly activities.

Learn more about New Year’s Eve events:

Bradenton Alive NYE Celebration

This New Year’s Eve party takes over Old Main Street in downtown Bradenton starting at 8 p.m. until the ball drops at midnight. There will be live music, vendors, food rucks and more.

Light It Up Clearwater

Ring in the new year with fireworks on Clearwater Beach at midnight. This year’s fireworks display will take place on the most northern part of Sand Key Park (but Sand Key Park will be closed to the public). The best viewing area is the southern part of Clearwater Beach but the fireworks will be visible along the beach. There is no cost to view the fireworks.

New Year’s Eve at Waterside Place

Lakewood Ranch’s Waterside Place hosts a New Year’s Eve celebration from 6 p.m. to midnight with DJ Truth, food trucks, cocktails, children’s activities and more. A planned drone light show has been canceled.

New Year’s Eve Celebration at Busch Gardens Tampa

The theme park will offer festive activities at Christmas Town, as well as thrilling rides, food and more on New Year’s Eve. The night will end with a fireworks display. The fireworks display is included with park admission.

New Year’s Fireworks at Treasure Island

Ring in the New Year by watching Treasure Island light up with fireworks on the beach. The city’s celebration will begin at midnight to celebrate the start of 2025. Fireworks will be launched from the beach near Gulf Front Park, located at 10400 Gulf Blvd. Bring a beach chair or towel and enjoy the show as the fireworks illuminate the night sky.

Noon Year’s Eve

The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature in Bradenton hosts this family-friendly event on Tuesday with the dinosaurs of DinoVenture on the Riverside Plaza. Instead of ringing in the New Year at midnight, though, the celebration takes place at noon. Visiting the dinos is free Tuesday and no registration is required.

NPR NYE Ball Drop

The Kangaroo presents the first-ever New Year’s Eve midnight ball drop in downtown New Port Richey.

NYE on the Pier

This New Year’s Eve celebration at the St. Pete Pier features DJs, food trucks, bars, vendors, games and the ultimate view for the city’s midnight fireworks show. Admission is free.

NYE with DJ Diesel (Shaq)

Armature Works in Tampa celebrates New Year’s Eve with DJ Diesel aka Shaquille O’Neal, dancing next to the Hillsborough River and a fireworks display at midnight. Tickets start at $105 per person. You can also view fireworks from along the Riverwalk at no cost.

Plant City Strawberry Drop

Historic downtown Plant City will host its first-ever Strawberry Drop at midnight on New Year’s Eve. There will be activities at restaurants, bars and other venues throughout the evening, as well as a Kid’s Zone with inflatables, games and prizes. Admission is free.

Sarasota Pineapple Drop Block Party

The iconic Pineapple Drop takes place at midnight in Sarasota. Throughout the day, from 1 p.m. to 1 a.m., enjoy various activities, including carnival rides, games, dancing, food and drinks, and concerts and other performances across multiple stages.