Ring in the New Year on Florida’s Historic Coast

New Year’s Eve Events

From the renowned Nights of Lights to fireworks at the beach, here are the top ways to ring in 2027 on Florida’s Historic Coast.

Here's What's Happening on New Year's Eve

1. Nights of Lights

First, take in the lights, all millions of them. Nights of Lights shines every evening through January 18, 2027, and it's a dazzling, free way to welcome the new year. Start at the holiday tree in the Plaza de la Constitución, then follow King Street past the Lightner Museum and Flagler College, where the lights climb from the grounds to the rooftops. Stroll the bayfront from the Bridge of Lions to the Castillo de San Marcos to see the lights reflected in Matanzas Bay. Everywhere you look is a brilliant spot for a New Year's Eve selfie.

2. Light Up the NIGHT! Beach Fireworks

There's nothing like fireworks over the ocean, and this St. Augustine Beach tradition is a perennial blast. Bring a blanket and join thousands of friends and neighbors for Light Up the NIGHT! at St. Johns County Ocean Pier Park at 8:30 p.m. Limited shuttle service and public parking are available. Best of all, it's free.

3. Watch the Fireworks from the Water

See the beach fireworks from Matanzas Bay on the Nights of Lights New Year's Eve Fireworks Cruise with Florida Water Tours. Cruises depart at 8:15, 8:30 and 8:45 p.m., then continue downtown for a look at Nights of Lights from the water. Guests 21 and older get a complimentary champagne toast.

Fireworks light up the night sky in St. Augustine.

4. Over the Top at the Circus

The big top returns to the St. Augustine Amphitheatre with Venardos Circus. Created by former Ringling Bros. Ringmaster Kevin Venardos, the show blends world-class circus acts with Broadway-style music and storytelling, with performances through January 3. It's a holiday outing the whole family will enjoy.

5. A Classic Evening at the Opera

Prefer something more classical? First Coast Opera rings in the new year with its annual holiday tradition, The Elixir of Love, at Lewis Auditorium at Flagler College. Catch Donizetti's romantic comedy on New Year's Eve at 7:30 p.m. or on January 2 at 2 p.m.

6. Live Music Downtown

Walk along St. George Street and you're bound to hear music in the air. Stop by Colonial Oak Music Park or one of downtown's many live music venues to keep the celebration going before midnight.

Celebrate with us on Florida’s Historic Coast.

Watch: Nights of Lights Family Fun

Watch: Falling in Love with Nights of Lights

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overhead view of friends enjoying great food and conversation at a St. Augustine Restaurant
Evening exterior of Salt Life Food Shack, a local nightlife hotspot, illuminated by pink and blue neon lights
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Oceanfront resort courtyard with a pool, palm trees and lounge chairs at Embassy Suites St. Augustine Beach