New Year's Eve in Sarasota
By Carson B. · Updated November 5, 2026
Sarasota's signature New Year's Eve is the free Pineapple Drop block party downtown, with a midnight drop and fireworks over the bayfront. For kids, UTC has run an early countdown. As of Nov. 5, 2026, this year's details aren't all posted, so what's below is based on last year's events. Confirm before you go.
The Pineapple Drop in downtown Sarasota
The city's big one: a free block party downtown that builds to a giant pineapple dropping at midnight, then fireworks over the bayfront. Check the city's event page for this year's hours and street closures.
Watching the fireworks from the bayfront
Bayfront Park and Island Park have wide-open views of the show, so bring a blanket or chairs. Marina Jack and Selby Gardens have both hosted ticketed New Year's Eve dinners with a view of the fireworks. Check with them for this year's plans.
With kids
UTC has held an early New Year's Eve on The Green with a countdown and fireworks at 9 p.m., so little ones can be in bed by a reasonable hour. Check UTC's site for this year's date and time.
Venice
Sharky's on the Pier has hosted a beach party with midnight fireworks by the Venice Fishing Pier, and it has been known to sell out. Book early if that's your plan.
Questions
Are there fireworks in Sarasota on New Year's Eve?
Yes. Downtown Sarasota's Pineapple Drop has been followed by fireworks over the bayfront. Check the city's event page for this year's details.
Is the Pineapple Drop free?
The city has listed it as a free block party. Confirm this year's details with the city.