New Year's Eve in Sarasota 2024-2025

Nestled along Florida's western shores, Sarasota serves as a sophisticated haven for luxury seekers and beach enthusiasts alike. As 2024 draws to a close, the city transforms into a vibrant celebration hub, blending tropical charm with elegant festivities. The signature Pineapple Drop, a whimsical twist on Times Square's ball drop, anchors a lively downtown block party. Marina Jack's bayfront events offer front-row seats to midnight fireworks, while Selby Gardens' black-tie gala illuminates its botanical paradise. With cultural performances at Van Wezel and exquisite waterfront dining at Jack Dusty, Sarasota showcases how Florida's Gulf Coast bids farewell to the old year and welcomes the new with both laid-back charm and upscale glamour.

Pineapple Drop in Downtown Sarasota

Celebrating its 25th anniversary, Sarasota’s New Year’s Eve Pineapple Drop Block Party promises to be bigger than ever, drawing up to 30,000 attendees to downtown Sarasota. Located at the intersection of Lemon Avenue and Main Street, the festivities kick off at 1 pm and continue through 1 am with live entertainment, fireworks, food trucks, and amusement rides. Three stages will keep the music flowing all evening, with performances by BYNGE at 4 pm, Crossfire Creek, Gas House Gorillas, and more. As midnight approaches, the excitement peaks with the iconic drop of the glowing pineapple, followed by a breathtaking fireworks display over Sarasota Bay.

Sarasota’s New Year’s Eve Celebrations

Sarasota’s New Year’s Eve celebrations offer an array of stylish parties and fine dining experiences to ring in 2025. Jack Dusty Coastal Cuisine and Crafted Cocktails hosts a waterfront dinner from 5:30 pm to 11 pm with a three-course prix-fixe menu for $160 per adult and $40 per child, plus a champagne toast at midnight. For a more casual evening, Jack Dusty’s Lounge offers reserved seating and live entertainment from 9 pm to 1 am, complete with a bottle of champagne for $500 for four guests. On December 30, Cooper’s Hawk hosts “Bubbles and Beginnings,” a gourmet wine club dinner for $100 per person, while the Sarasota Bay Club’s NYE Gala and Papa Joe’s live music with Dirty White Boys both promise a vibrant countdown experience to welcome the new year.

Marina Jack NYE

Marina Jack, located at the Sarasota bayfront, is also known for its NYE celebration. Special menus, live entertainment, and the fireworks display at midnight lure the festive crowds to the area. Special holiday cruise options are available at the marina as well.

Selby Gardens New Year’s Eve Gala

As twilight descends on the final evening of 2024, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens transforms into a magical realm illuminated by over two million lights. The crown jewel of Sarasota's holiday season, the Gardens' black-tie gala promises an extraordinary farewell to the year, unfolding from 7 pm to 1 am. Guests will enjoy exclusive access to the breathtaking Lights in Bloom display, where illuminated pathways wind through garden vignettes. The evening begins with elegant passed hors d'oeuvres, leading to an exquisite four-course dinner by the renowned Michael's on East. The night includes dancing to DJ Karim, a champagne toast, and a stunning view of the fireworks over Sarasota Bay to welcome the New Year.

Concerts

Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall in Sarasota, Florida, is hosting two memorable concerts to close out 2024. On Saturday, December 28, Straight No Chaser takes the stage from 3 pm to 8 pm, offering a relaxed afternoon and evening filled with smooth harmonies and lively a cappella performances. The following night, Sunday, December 29, Salute to Vienna brings a festive, classical experience from 7 pm to 9 pm, featuring beloved waltzes and operetta favorites in an elegant celebration of Viennese culture. Both concerts provide an enjoyable way to spend the evening surrounded by great music and company.