Glazer Children’s Museum will hold its Downtown Countdown in Tampa. Activities include crafts and a noon countdown. Admission covers everything. Great Explorations Children’s Museum in St. Pete will have balloon drops, dance parties, crafts, and pizza.
ZooTampa will host an early celebration. Visitors can see animals, listen to music, and enjoy treats.
MOSI will offer its Quantum Countdown with several countdowns throughout the day and hands-on exhibits.
Armature Works in Tampa will hold a free gathering with inflatables, giant yard games, live music, and a noon countdown with smoke fireworks over the river — an exciting way to ring in the New Year before lunch.
The Pint-Sized Noon Year’s Eve Party in Largo will take place at Largo Historic Feed Store at Largo Central Park with games, snacks, and a balloon drop at noon.
Main Event in Wesley Chapel will host “When the Clock Strikes Fun” with bowling, arcade games, laser tag, prizes, and food.
Several fireworks shows will happen around the region for those attending evening gatherings. LEGOLAND Florida in Winter Haven will host an early evening fireworks show around 8 p.m.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay will combine rides, animal encounters, and a nighttime fireworks finale — a thrilling way to end the year.
New Year’s Eve on the Pier at Spa Beach Park in St. Pete will feature music, food vendors, and a fireworks show over the waterfront.
Clearwater Beach will hold one of the biggest celebrations in the area. Fireworks light up the Gulf at midnight. Treasure Island will host fireworks on the beach near Gulf Front Park at 10400 Gulf Blvd.
Parents attending nighttime fireworks should plan naps and bring ear protection for younger kids. Florida evenings can get chilly. Dressing in layers is smart for beach gatherings.