Whether you’re staying right on the sand or heading into the heart of the city, Siesta

Key and Sarasota are the ultimate places to say goodbye to 2025 and hello to a brand-new year!

Of course vacationonsiesta.com has scouted out the best ways to celebrate. From the iconic Pineapple Drop to

sophisticated garden galas, here is your guide to New Year’s Eve in paradise.

1. The Main Event: The 26th Annual Pineapple Drop Block Party

If you want the quintessential Sarasota experience, head to Downtown Sarasota (Main St. & Lemon Ave.). This is our

version of the ball drop in Times Square, but with a tropical twist!

* The Schedule:

The party kicks off early at 1:00 PM on December 31st with a family-friendly carnival at Selby Five

Points Park featuring rides and games.

* The Vibes:

Expect live music and DJs across three stages starting at 9:00 PM.

* The Countdown:

At midnight, the massive glowing pineapple drops, followed by a spectacular fireworks display

over Sarasota Bay.

* Pro Tip:

Admission is free! It’s a block party atmosphere with plenty of food and drink vendors to keep the energy

high.

2. Siesta Key Island Celebrations

Staying on the island? You don’t have to cross the bridge to find a great party.

* The Beach Club Siesta Key:

Known for one of the biggest parties on the Key, they often host a “NYE Open Bar”

event with live music and a money balloon drop. It’s the place to be if you want to dance the night away without

leaving Siesta Village.

* Siesta Key Village Hop:

Popular spots like Siesta Key Oyster Bar (SKOB), Gilligan’s, and The Cottage usually host

their own live music and champagne toasts. It’s a more laid-back, “shoes-optional” way to ring in the year.

3. Sophisticated Soirées & Unique Views

* Selby Gardens New Year’s Eve Gala:

For a black-tie affair, the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens hosts a sophisticated

gala. You get private access to the Lights in Bloom® holiday display, a four-course dinner, and a perfect,

unobstructed view of the bayfront fireworks.

* The Westin Sarasota Rooftop:

Looking for a view from the top? The Westin hosts a rooftop soirée overlooking the

bay and downtown. It’s a chic spot to enjoy a champagne toast while watching the fireworks from above.

* Waterside Place (Lakewood Ranch):

For something a little different, head to Waterside Place for their block party,

which features a LIVE Drone Light Show instead of traditional fireworks—perfect for those who prefer a quieter but

equally dazzling spectacle.

4. For the Nature Lovers: NYE Beach Bash

* Sharky’s on the Pier (Venice):

Just a short drive south, you can celebrate at the New Year’s Eve Beach Bash.

Dance on the sand to live music and watch fireworks launch right over the Venice Fishing Pier at midnight.

Planning Tip: Traffic and parking can be busy on New Year’s Eve! If you’re staying in one of our Siesta Key rentals,

consider using the Siesta Key Breeze Trolley to get around the island, or ride-share apps if you’re heading into

downtown Sarasota.

No matter where you choose to celebrate, we can’t wait to see you on the island.

Happy New Year from vacationonsiesta.com

Getting ready to ring in 2026