New Year’s on the North Gulf
Want to catch the best fireworks show in the North Gulf? Head to Baytowne Wharf in West Miramar. The biggest resort in town hosts one of the biggest fireworks spectaculars in the area, and you can easily spot them from the beach. Sandestin also offers a number of activities and parties on the big night, including live entertainment, dancing and much more. It’s a quick trip from your quiet Navarre hotel.
In Pensacola, there are two NYE fireworks shows available. One is for the little ones at 8 p.m. at Soundside, and the midnight show is at Gulf Pier. Also in Pensacola is the Pelican Drop at 5 p.m. The massive 14-foot pelican perches above the park on Palafox and Government Streets. Three stages of entertainment, a kid’s area, bubble stomp and more keep the party going until 12:30 a.m.
Party Picks
Destin offers wining, dining and dancing at HarborWalk Village. Live music on the mainstage and two fireworks shows make this annual ball drop-infused party one worth checking out. Others prefer the NYE Beach Ball Drop at Pier Park in Panama City Beach. It starts at 5:30 p.m. with a free, family-friendly party on the Boardwalk. Face painting, raffle prizes and live entertainment kicks off the event where 10,000 beach balls are released. There are also two fireworks shows here, one at 8:30 and one at midnight—the latter has the lowering of the 800-pound LED beach ball!
Prefer a more relaxing New Year’s? Head to The Wharf at Orange Beach from 5 p.m. – midnight. Live music, a kid’s area, beer garden and party on the main street rings in 2018. If you start feeling courageous, you can always try your hand at the mechanical bull before the fireworks show.