Looking for things to do in Destin for New Year’s Eve? Our coastal community boasts a variety of ways to welcome 2026. From sparkling fireworks over the harbor to family-friendly events, romantic dinners, and lively parties, Destin has something for everyone. So gather your loved ones and get ready to ring in the new year in style on the Emerald Coast! Here’s your ultimate guide to celebrating New Year’s Eve in Destin:

Noon Year’s Eve

No need to worry about staying awake until midnight—there are several “Noon Year’s Eve” parties that allow your kids to ring in 2026 without compromising that precious bedtime routine. These events offer kid-friendly activities and culminate in a special celebration as the clock strikes 12.

• Lulu’s: This popular party starts at 10am and features a beach ball drop at noon, face painting, live music, and more on the sandy beach.
• HarborWalk Village: Visit from 11am to 2pm for fun activities, DJ dance party on the lawn, creative crafts, and a special daytime smoke-show firework display over the Destin Harbor at noon. You can also enjoy a sample of signature mocktails or cocktails from the sponsors by the main stage.
• Alys Beach: Head over to 30A for live music, bubble machines, inflatable snow globe, face painting, cotton candy from Hello Sugar, complimentary children’s crafts, and a bar provided by Fonville Press Market + Café. Find the fun at the Alys Beach Amphitheatre from 10am to noon.
• Fudpuckers: This event features face painting, a live DJ, food, alligators, and a prize filled balloon drop at noon! The fun starts at 10am.
• Silver Sands Premium Outlets: From 10am to noon, enjoy music, games and more family fun. The event will conclude with a juice box toast and bubble blast when the clock strikes noon! The event will be held in the courtyard by Saks OFF 5TH.  

Fireworks Over Destin Harbor

HarborWalk Village hosts a Grande Celebration complete with two spectacular fireworks displays over the Destin Harbor, which take place at 8pm and Midnight. They are set off from a barge on the water in the East Pass, so you can see them from a variety of spots including other restaurants and docks along the harbor, a boat, or Norriego Point. The event at HarborWalk Village also features live music beginning at 7pm, a ball drop at midnight, and more festive activities.

Baytowne Countdown

The Village of Baytowne Wharf in Sandestin counts down to the new year with a fun family-friendly evening from 6pm to 8pm, complete with face painting, kids activities, live music, and two fireworks displays (8pm and Midnight).

Dining at Destin Restaurants

If you prefer ringing in the new year with a delicious dinner, there are many restaurants in Destin that offer special prix fixe menus, live entertainment and other festive features. Many of these venues offer live music, themed parties, and midnight champagne toasts. Many restaurants will offer prix fixe menus for New Year’s Eve, so make sure to check the menu ahead of time and make reservations early to avoid disappointment.

• Bitterroot is offering a three-course meal and champagne toast for $90 with the option to add drink pairings for $50. Chef Chadwick Donelson always serves up a memorable meal plus the elegant restaurant is beautifully decorated for the holiday season. Visit their website to make reservations.
• Primrose at Henderson Beach Resort will have a prix fixe menu for $129 per adult and $39 per child. Enjoy a delicious meal and the festive, upscale atmosphere from 5pm to 9pm.
• Beach Walk Café at Henderson Park Inn has a four-course prix fixe menu and holiday drink specials, plus a view of the Gulf. The menu features filet mignon, Maine lobster, pecan crusted grouper, amazing desserts and more.

Seaside Celebration and Fireworks

Seaside offers a picturesque setting for celebrating the new year complete with festive balloons at the iconic Seaside Post Office for the perfect photo backdrop. Enjoy crafts and face painting from 4pm to 9pm; Monsters of Yacht band on the Amphitheater Stage from 5pm to 9pm; and fireworks from the Gulf at 9pm. It’s the best way to close out 2025 right on the beach!

Fire & Ice New Year’ Eve Bash at Hotel Effie

Don’t miss the hottest (and coolest) party at Ara Rooftop Pool & Lounge from 7pm to 1am! The festive event atop Hotel Effie in Sandestin features handcrafted cocktails, a live DJ, two fireworks shows (8pm and midnight), plus VIP tables and cabananas for eight people with two botles of Veuve Clicquot. Tickets are $65+ tax and gratuity.