Special New Year's Eve Celebrations in Sarasota County

At the end of each year, Sarasota County is among those buzzing with talk of fireworks and festive falling fruits; champagne toasts with sparkling bruts.

From swanky soirees to casual beach bashes, block parties and family-friendly marshmallow roasts—there are all kinds of ways to say "goodbye" to 2019 and welcome the New Year in Sarasota County.

Where will you be when the clock strikes midnight in 2020?

Downtown Sarasota Pineapple Drop

The area’s biggest New Year's Eve event attracts more than 20,000 visitors to downtown Sarasota for the annual "Pineapple Drop" to ring in the New Year with tropical flair. The block party on Main Street kicks off at 1:00 p.m. on Dec. 31, featuring live bands, food and beer vendors, and kids games. It all culminates with the New Year countdown as an illuminated pineapple drops from a crane during the final 10 seconds.

Sarasota New Year's Eve Illumination Party

Full Moon Promotions hosts its 3^rd annual party at the iconic Sarasota Municipal Auditorium. This N.Y.E. celebration, supporting the Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County, features a red carpet entrance and valet parking, an open top-shelf bar, bottomless champagne, catered appetizers and JPAN Sushi, a huge dance floor, and live music from bands, DJs and singers all night! Tickets sell for $150 in advance, or $200 (if available) day-of and at the door. Get your tickets online before they sell out.

Firework Viewing and more at Marina Jack

The front row ticket for fireworks above the Sarasota Bayfront can be found at Marina Jack's annual party. Enjoy a special four course dinner menu at one of the properties extensive dining rooms, deck and lounges, all with a spectacular waterfront view. For a truly memorable experience, book a spot on the celebration cruise from 8 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. with some of the same amenities as the landlubbers - live music, party favors and champagne – with the added bonus of a unique view of sunset, city lights and fireworks. To purchase $179.95 tickets for the cruise or book any of the other marina experiences, call Marina Jack directly or visit the website.

New Year's Eve at Selby Gardens

This signature black tie event is among the most sophisticated New Year's Eve affairs in Sarasota. New Year's Eve at Selby Gardens features a private journey through the holiday-lit tropical gardens, passed hor d'oeuvres, a seated four-course dinner, and live entertainment and dancing at Michael's on the Bay. When the clock strikes midnight, welcome the New Year with a breathtaking view of the Bayfront and fireworks from the garden. Tickets for this adults-only affair are $300 and can be purchased through their website.

New Year's Eve Gala at the Venice Ramada

The Venice Ramada Resort will host its annual New Year's Eve Gala. The gala features a social hour with appetizers, a grand buffet, live entertainment, and raffle prizes throughout the night. Celebrate with a champagne toast at midnight included in your ticket. Gala tickets are $80 per person or $150 per couple. Venice Ramada also offers a $269 per couple N.Y.E. package that includes the gala, overnight guest room, and breakfast for two on the morning of New Year's Day. Contact the hotel for reservations.

Starlight & Fire: A New Year's Eve Celebration

The Starlight and Fire Family Party takes place on New Year's Eve at Historic Spanish Point. The celebration is an opportunity for the whole family to ring in New Year's Eve together—and still have the littlest ones tucked in before the clock strikes midnight. From 7 - 10 p.m. on Dec. 31, the party lawn games, hula hoop and dance competitions for the kids, s’mores, holiday treats, a cash bar and live music. Kids 12 and younger get in for $7 ($5 for HSP members); teens and adults for $15 ($12 for HSP members).