Friday, December 26, 2025, through Thursday, January 1, 2026.
- Downtown Sarasota Pineapple Drop A large, free block party on Main Street and Lemon Avenue.
- Details: Festivities run from 1 p.m. on Dec 31 to 1 a.m. on Jan 1. The event features carnival rides, amusement games, live music from local bands, food and drink vendors, and full bars. The iconic glowing pineapple drops at midnight, followed by a fireworks show over the bayfront.
- New Year’s Eve at Waterside Place A free community celebration at Waterside Plaza with a unique twist.
- Details: Starts at 6 p.m. on Dec 31. Features a live DJ, dancing, arcade games, LED mini-golf, and a midnight high-tech drone show instead of fireworks.
- New Year’s Eve Gala at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens An upscale, ticketed event.
- Details: This gala includes dinner and likely views of the bayfront fireworks.
- Cha Cha Coconuts Party A ticketed New Year’s Eve party.
- Details: Starts at 8:00 p.m. on Dec 31. Check the event website for ticket prices and full details.
- Sharky’s New Year’s Eve Beach Bash A popular beach party at Sharky’s on the Pier.
- Details: Gates open at 7 p.m. on Dec 31. Features live entertainment by the Bay Kings Band, a special menu, food trucks, and a midnight fireworks show. General admission and VIP tickets are available for purchase online.
- Restaurant Events Several local restaurants are hosting specific events:
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: Dinner package, live music by Phoenix Rising, champagne, and party favors.
- Made in Italy: Live music by “Occasions”.
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: “Pop’s Jungle Groove” party with a pre-purchase credit toward food and drinks, complimentary hors d’oeuvres, and a midnight champagne toast.
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: Santana tribute band “Supernatural” with two dinner seatings and a champagne toast.
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- PIER 22 Havana Nights NYE A ticketed social event with a theme.
- Details: Starts at 8 p.m. on Dec 31. Includes a dinner buffet, premium open bar, DJ entertainment, and a photobooth. Cost is $200+ per person.
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A full day and night of live music.
- Details: Features Jennifer Real Trio, Jason Parker, and the 80s rock band “Scream Machine” from 9 p.m. to 12:30 a.m..
- Derek Lersch Band at Rossi Park A concert for New Year’s Eve.
- Details: Starts at 8:30 p.m. on Dec 31.
- Bayshore Gardens Yacht Club Dance Open to everyone, featuring the Jimmy Keith Band.
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: The musical Come From Away is running through December 28.
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: Several shows are running, including Lucky Stiff (through Dec 28) and Feeling Good and Three Pianos (both running into 2026).
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: The venue is set to return after repairs, with events scheduled for January 2026.
- Live Music at The Plaza: Happening on December 27 at Waterside Place.
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: A consistent spot for live music and nightlife.
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: A weekly community market that runs on Saturdays.
- Details: Located in downtown Bradenton, open weekly through May 2026.
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North River Community Market
: A new market in Palmetto.
- Details: Held at North River, check the schedule for specific weekend dates.
- Sarasota Seafood & Music Festival: Starts just after the requested dates (Jan 2-4, 2026), but worth noting as a major upcoming event.
- LECOM Presents: Wonderland Believe: Holiday entertainment at The Mall at University Town Center, running through January 4, 2026.
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: Catch world-class artistry and entertainment under the big top.
- Details: Shows are scheduled daily during this period (Dec 26-Jan 1), with times usually from early afternoon to evening.
- Winter Break Camp at Arlington Park: A camp for kids ages 5-12 with sports, crafts, and games; Session II is Dec 29-31, 2025.
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: Enjoy the beautiful tropical plants and the holiday light show installation.
- Siesta Trolley – Holiday Tour of Lights: Enjoy a festive tour through December 29.
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The Ringling Courtyard
: This area hosts events and is part of the general cultural scene in the area.
