Ringing in the New Year in Destin - New Year’s Eve Celebrations along Florida’s Emerald Coast

Are you planning to ring in the New Year in South Walton or Destin, Florida? If so, there are lots of great options for your New Year’s Eve celebration along the coast from the Destin Harbor to Miramar Beach to the towns of 30A to Panama City Beach.  Here’s a roundup of the hottest spots to welcome the New Year in Northwest Florida:

Noon Year's Eve at LuLu’s (Destin)

This loved local annual tradition starts early for families. The Annual Noon Year's Eve begins at 10 a.m. on New Year's Eve day, December 31. It will be non-stop, free, kid-friendly fun for the whole family. Noon Year's Eve kicks off with a sandcastle building contest followed by arts and crafts, face painting, and more on the sandy beach overlooking the Choctawhatchee Bay. Live entertainment. The family-friendly beach ball drop counts down to noon and hundreds of beach balls are released on the beach. Then kids get to stomp on bubble wrap throughout the restaurant. Lulu’s closes at 3 pm and will be closed on New Year’s Day.

New Year’s Eve Street Party at HarborWalk Village (Destin)

Enjoy live music in restaurants throughout HarborWalk Village as well as the HarborWalk Village Main Stage.  Families will enjoy the early fireworks show at 8 pm and adults will enjoy sticking around for the Annual Ball Drop over the Destin Harbor and more fireworks at midnight.

Baytowne Countdown (Sandestin)

If you’re staying in Miramar Beach, the Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin hosts the Baytowne Countdown. Restaurants throughout the Village will feature drink specials and live music and guests may also enjoy live entertainment at the Events Plaza until 1 am.  All ages welcome until 10 pm; and 21 and over after 10 pm (20 and under must be accompanied by a legal guardian after 10 pm). For more information, call (850) 267-8110.

Countdown Seaside (Seaside/30A)

For those staying along Scenic Hwy 30A, Countdown Seaside is a family-friendly end-of-year celebration held at the Seaside Amphitheater. Enjoy live music from 7:30 pm to 12:30 am. Entertainment includes kids' activities, street performers, and fireworks at midnight.

Beach Ball Drop at Pier Park (Panama City Beach)

The New Year’s Eve Beach Ball Drop offers two opportunities to welcome in the New Year. The streets of Pier Park are closed off for the New Year’s Eve celebration, which includes live music, entertainment, fireworks, and good cheer. For families, the first Beach Ball Drops at 8:00 p.m., followed by a second Beach Ball Drop at midnight with an incredible fireworks display.

Private Celebration (Destin/South Walton)

Looking for a more intimate celebration?  Stay within your comfortable South Walton or Destin vacation rental and ring in the New Year with family and friends.  From cozy South Walton and Destin condos to luxury rental homes in Miramar Beach and Destin, the options for hosting your own private celebration are plentiful.

Ready to book your New Year's Beach Getaway?

View Newman-Dailey's collection of vacation rental homes and condominiums in Destin and South Walton, Florida. Let our friendly, local team of vacation specialists narrow your search by calling 1-800-225-7652. Remember to always book direct with Newman-Dailey for our best rate guarantee.

See you @ the beach to toast the New Year!

Updated: 11/18/24