First Night, Pineapple Drop, Marshmello, Busch Gardens: FL NYE Events

FLORIDA — If you’re looking for something to do on New Year’s Eve in the greater Tampa Bay area, there’s a variety of events to choose from - family-friendly celebrations, theme park activities, top-notch entertainment, block parties, fireworks and more.

Busch Gardens

On Dec. 31, Busch Gardens offers guests a day of fun and a fireworks show at night amidst the festive activities of its Christmas Town.

New Year’s at Noon

Great Explorations in Tampa hosts this family-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration runs from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Pineapple Drop Block Party

The Pineapple Drop Block Party takes place Sunday, kicking off at 1 p.m. and ending at 1 a.m., in downtown Sarasota. The festivities, which take place at the intersection of Lemon Avenue and Main Street, include a carnival, live music and entertainment, fireworks, and, of course, the Pineapple Drop at midnight.

First Night St. Pete

This family-friendly arts festival returns Dec. 31 from 4 to 8 p.m. at North Straub Park in St. Pete with an event filled with music, art, theater, dance, interactive displays and more.

The Lights Festival

This floating lantern and music festival runs from 4 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. at Little Everglades Ranch in Dade City.

New Year’s Eve Mango Drop

This NYE celebration takes place from 6 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. at Hotel Venezia in Venice. Tickets include a buffet dinner, music and dancing, and the mango drop at midnight.

New Year’s Eve at University Town Center

This family-friendly event at the University Town Center in Sarasota runs from 7 to 9 p.m. and features a live DJ and entertainment, face painting, games, and fireworks.

NYE with Marshmello

This NYE event at the Pier at Armature Works in Tampa, starting at 8 p.m., features Marshmello as well as Justin Bieber’s tour DJ, Tay James, with fireworks at midnight.

NYE on the Pier

NYE on the Pier, 8 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., at the St. Petersburg Pier includes DJs, bars, food trucks and a fireworks display.

Bradenton Alive New Year’s Eve Celebration

This annual event returns Dec. 31, 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., in downtown Bradenton. There will be live music from the Derek Lersch Band, food trucks, vendors and fireworks.

NYE with Kool & the Gang

Kool & the Gang will perform during the New Year’s Eve celebration at the Tampa EDITION hotel from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.

Light It Up New Year’s Eve

This annual fireworks display at midnight on Clearwater Beach takes place on the most northern part of Sand Key Park. The best viewing area is the southern part of Clearwater Beach but the fireworks will be visible along the beach.