Waterfront destinations in and around Tampa Bay have long been known to be prime locations for viewing the fireworks displays on New Year’s Eve. The Apollo Beach in the Hillsborough area has been the holiday pyrotechnic hotspot for the last four years. However, there are other locations where you can enjoy the festivities.
Apollo Beach
The community raises tens of thousands of dollars to ensure that Apollo Beach has the grandest fireworks display in the state. The pyrotechnics take flight from a 3,600 square-foot barge docked at the heart of Bal Harbor. The brilliant show begins at the stroke of midnight and is choreographed with a live musical broadcast provided by 101.9 FM. All are invited to view the no cost event.
Busch Gardens
The park opens at 9:00 A.M. on New Year’s Eve and remains open until 1:00 A.M. on New Year’s Day. The location offers live entertainment and music in addition to enjoying the park’s many rides. At midnight, guests are in a prime location to see the fireworks ignited in the park. Admission fees apply.
Channelside
The annual Channelside Lights Up the Bay party begins at 5:00 P.M. and features midnight fireworks at the bay plaza. The display is visible from Aqua-Eve. However, the site typically only accommodates 3,000 spectators, so visitors are encouraged to arrive as early as possible. The Florida Aquarium hosts an adults-only party with beverages, food, champagne toasts and live music. The venue additionally offers cruises around the harbor to watch the spectacle from the waterfront.
Clearwater Beach
At midnight, fireworks are sent rocketing from Sand Key and are visible anywhere along Clearwater Beach.
Downtown St. Petersburg
No alcoholic beverages are permitted at this family-friendly site along the waterfront. The celebration begins at 4:00 P.M. in Straub Park and requires no admission fees. However, attending any of the activities requires a pre-paid button. The festivities include an art exhibit, concerts and other live entertainment. The location presents two fireworks displays. The first occurs at 9:00 P.M. out of respect for families with youngsters. The second event begins at midnight. The sky-illuminating effects are visible from anywhere in the downtown area.
Jackson’s Bistro
The celebration at the popular restaurant takes place inside and out. The party starts at 9:00 P.M. on New Year’s Eve and continues until 3:00 A.M. on New Year’s Day. In addition to the Channelside presentation, bistro affiliates also plan on launching a display on the water at midnight. The spacious windows and venue patio are great for catching the action. The restaurant plans on serving up a variety of foods in lieu of the occasion that include conch fritters and crab ravioli. Tickets are required to attend the event and are available at the Pied Piper Productions website.
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