Anna Maria Island is the perfect vacation destination for your family. You’ll be able to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life amidst the locals on the seven-mile stretch of beach. Experience great shopping, delicious food, and gorgeous beaches. If you’re visiting during the New Year, there are plenty of fun events for you to come out and enjoy the island. Here are a few of our favorite celebrations to ring in the new year, all on or around Anna Maria Island!
Sarasota New Year’s Eve Pineapple Drop
Just slightly south of the Island in Sarasota, the annual Pineapple Drop draws crowds from far and wide. Commence the New Year at the Downtown Sarasota Block Party and Pineapple Drop Celebration! The party kicks off on Friday, December 31 at 1:00 p.m. Enjoy amusement rides & games at 5 Points Park, live music at Main St. & Lemon, food, drinks and full bar concessions all followed by a fantastic firework display on Sarasota Bay as the Pineapple drops at midnight!
Enjoy a great view- without leaving the party! The event ends Saturday, January 1, at 1:30 am.
2020 EPIC Sarasota New Year’s Eve Celebration
For a celebration that’s a bit more upscale, Full Moon Promotions is hosting the EPIC Sarasota New Year’s Eve Celebration, the largest ticketed New Year’s Eve party in the city. You will walk down the red carpet to enter the celebration, enjoy bottomless champagne and an open top shelf bar, dance to the DJ and band, and enjoy the laser light show. Dance the night away and ring in the New Year the right way!
This event will take place from December 31st at 8 p.m. until January 1st at 2 am. The celebration will be located at Municipal Auditorium Recreation Club at 801 North Tamiami Trail in Sarasota. This event is ticketed, so visit their website for more information.
Marina Jack Restaurant
Marina Jack, located at the Sarasota bayfront, is also known for its NYE celebration. Special menus, live entertainment, and the fireworks display at midnight lure the festive crowds to the area. Special holiday cruise options are available at the marina as well. Go to Marina Jacks website for more information.
Main Street Live!
Just a short drive over the Manatee Avenue bridge is Downtown Bradenton. Head here for New Years to experience Main Street Live, a free event that welcomes all to enjoy some fun, food, and music. You can mingle with the locals or dance to the live music with your family. Try some of the freshest foods around courtesy of local restaurants and food trucks, and simply enjoy yourself before the fireworks. This is an annual event that has drawn crowds for years, and once you experience it for yourself, it isn’t hard to see why!
Main Street Live takes place all along Main Street in Bradenton. Look out for exact times closer to the date.
The Beach House Restaurant
Head to the Beach House Restaurant on Bradenton Beach to enjoy a casual meal or drink to ring in the New Year, complete with live music and a fun atmosphere. Come in to enjoy the dinner and drink specials and find the perfect seat for the firework show! You don’t need a reservation to view the show, you can also make your set up right outside of the beachfront restaurant for a similarly great view.
The Beach House Restaurant is located at 200 Gulf Drive North in Bradenton Beach. Check out the Beach House’s website: https://beachhousedining.com/ closer to New Year’s for exact details and times of the celebration.
Ringing in the new year on Anna Maria Island is a great way to spend the first minutes of 2022 with your friends and family. After you’re done celebrating, return to your Anna Maria Island vacation rental to relax and gear up for the rest of your trip.
We have rentals with pool access for a quick dip, or book one of our Anna Maria Island pet friendly rentals so your furry friend can come, too. For more information on New Years on the island and all of our rental options, contact us today!
