by Tampa Bay comes alive each December 31 with celebrations ranging from waterfront fireworks to beach parties, family activities, and vibrant nightlife. New Year’s Eve 2025 promises plenty of ways to say goodbye to 2025 and welcome 2026. Below is a complete guide to events including venues, timings, entertainment, food and drinks, ticketing info, and what to expect throughout the night.
Downtown Tampa Fireworks at the Riverwalk
- Date: December 31, 2025
- Firework Timings: Midnight (12:00 AM) over the Hillsborough River
- Ideal Viewing Window: Arrive by 11:30 PM for best spots
- Location: Tampa Riverwalk area
- Entertainment Highlights: Live music and DJ sets along the waterfront
- Food & Drinks: Food stalls and nearby bars serving snacks and beverages
- Notes: Prime viewing from outdoor spaces near the Riverwalk and nearby patios
This downtown celebration anchors Tampa’s NYE festivities with a scenic riverfront backdrop.
NYE Beach Party at Whiskey Joe’s Tampa
- Date & Time: December 31, 2025 | 7:00 PM – 12:30 AM
- Venue: Whiskey Joe’s Tampa Bar & Grill, West Courtney Campbell Causeway
- Tickets: General admission and VIP options
- Entertainment Lineup:
- Live music performances
- Fire dancers and pre-midnight beach entertainment
- Midnight champagne toast
- Food & Drinks: Beachfront food and beverage service, including seafood boil packages
- Additional Info: Tickets vary depending on perks such as open bar and premium viewing spots
A lively beach party with a festive atmosphere and excellent vantage points for fireworks.
Armature Works New Year’s Eve Celebration
- Date & Time: December 31, 2025 | 8:00 PM – 2:00 AM
- Location: Armature Works, 1910 N Ola Avenue, Tampa
- Target Crowd: Adults (21+) with VIP upgrades available
- Entertainment:
- DJs and dance areas along the pier
- Party zones overlooking the Hillsborough River
- Midnight countdown followed by fireworks
- Food & Drinks: On-site bar stations and food vendors with river views
This is one of Tampa’s major waterfront parties, combining music, dancing, and festive energy well past midnight.
Tampa Bay Water Taxi Fireworks Cruise
- Date & Time: December 31, 2025 | 11:30 PM – 12:30 AM
- Departure Area: Downtown Tampa waterfront
- Cruise Perks:
- Scenic one-hour cruise around the bay
- Complimentary champagne toast at midnight
- Unobstructed views of fireworks from the water
- Food & Drinks: Light refreshments included
- Audience: All ages welcome (21+ to drink)
A perfect option for those seeking a front-row view of the fireworks from the water.
Yacht Starship New Year’s Eve Cruise
- Date & Time: December 31, 2025 | 10:30 PM – 12:30 AM
- Venue: Departing from Channelside
- Tickets: Premium pricing
- Experience Includes:
- Two-hour cruise with hors d’oeuvres, desserts, and food stations
- Open premium bar and champagne toast
- Live DJ entertainment and celebration favors
- Extras: Some tickets may offer early boarding or extended party hours
An upscale cruise ideal for adults looking for a refined NYE experience with stunning water views.
Family & Daytime Counting Events
Armature Works Noon Year’s Eve
- Date & Time: December 31, 2025 | Late morning to early afternoon
- Highlights:
- Fun fireworks or smoke effects around lunchtime
- Games, inflatables, live DJ, and family entertainment
- Photo opportunities and yard games for kids
- Food & Drinks: Snacks and beverages from vendors on site
Daytime events allow families with younger children to join the New Year’s excitement without staying up late.
Dining & Countdown Spots
- Waterfront restaurants along Harbour Island and Tampa Riverwalk
- Hotels with rooftop lounges offering skyline views
- Social clubs in Downtown and Channelside featuring NYE menus
Reservations are recommended as NYE dining fills quickly.
Fireworks Views Beyond Tampa
- St. Petersburg NYE Pier Celebration: A short drive across the bay with large fireworks displays and waterfront entertainment
- Clearwater Beach at Midnight: Beachside fireworks, live music, and food vendors create a festive Gulf Coast atmosphere
These locations expand your viewing options and add a beachside flair to your celebrations.
Tips for Planning Your Night
- Arrive Early: Popular spots like the Riverwalk and Armature Works fill up quickly
- Transportation: Parking is limited; consider ride-sharing or public transit
- Dress for Comfort: December nights near the water can be cool; bring layers
- Reservations: Book dinners and cruises in advance for the best experience
Tampa’s New Year’s Eve scene offers riverfront energy, scenic cruises, beachfront celebrations, family events, and lively downtown parties. Whether you prefer a high-energy party or a relaxed waterfront view, there are options for everyone to ring in 2026 in style.
