Residents and visitors across the Emerald Coast will have no shortage of ways to ring in the New Year, with multiple cities hosting fireworks displays, live music, and family-friendly festivities stretching from Okaloosa Island to Walton County and Crestview.

In Fort Walton Beach, The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island is expected to once again serve as a centerpiece for New Year’s Eve celebrations. Fireworks are typically scheduled twice — an earlier family-friendly show around 9 p.m., followed by a midnight display to welcome the New Year. Guests can enjoy waterfront dining, live music, and views from the beach, restaurants, or the fishing pier.

Just east, Destin will host one of the region’s largest New Year’s Eve events at HarborWalk Village, where fireworks are planned for 8 p.m. and again at midnight over Destin Harbor. The evening includes live music, entertainment, and a bustling crowd ringing in the New Year along the waterfront. Additional celebrations are expected at Baytowne Wharf in Sandestin, which traditionally offers live bands, a family countdown, and fireworks over the lagoon.

In Walton County, the Village of Baytowne Wharf remains the primary fireworks destination, with both an early evening display and a midnight show planned. Several hotels and venues in the area, including rooftop and waterfront locations, also host New Year’s Eve parties with views of the fireworks.

Further north, Crestview is expected to host its annual downtown New Year’s Eve celebration on Main Street, featuring live music, food vendors, and a midnight fireworks show. The event typically includes family-friendly activities earlier in the evening before transitioning into the countdown to the New Year.

Officials encourage attendees to arrive early, expect heavy traffic near major venues, and check official tourism websites and city social media pages for the latest event details and schedules as New Year’s Eve approaches.

https://www.destinfwb.com
https://fortwalton.lifemediagrp.com
https://www.harborwalkvillage.com
https://www.baytownewharf.com
https://www.cityofcrestview.org