Ringing in 2018 in Destin - New Year’s Eve Celebrations Along the Emerald Coast

Are you planning to ring in 2018 in South Walton or Destin, Florida? If so, there are lots of great options for your New Year’s Eve celebration in and around Destin.  Here’s a roundup of the hottest spots to say farewell to 2017 and welcome 2018 along the Emerald Coast: 

Noon Year's Eve at LuLu’s (Destin) - The 3rd Annual Noon Year's Eve begins at 10 a.m. on New Year's Eve day, Sunday, December 31. It will be non-stop, free, kid-friendly fun for the whole family. Noon Year's Eve kicks off with a sandcastle building contest followed by arts and crafts, face painting, and more on the sandy beach overlooking the Choctawhatchee Bay. Live entertainment by Pelican 212, sibling band out of Nashville, TN that performs around the country, and was even featured on the TV show "Little Big Shots.” The beach ball drop counts down to noon and hundreds of beach balls will be released on the beach. Then kids get to stomp on bubble wrap throughout the restaurant. Lulu’s closes at 3 pm and will be closed on New Year’s Day.

New Year’s Eve Street Party at HarborWalk Village (Destin) - Enjoy live music in restaurants throughout HarborWalk Village as well as the HarborWalk Village Main Stage.  Families will enjoy the early fireworks show at 8pm and adults will enjoy sticking around for the 9th Annual Ball Drop over the Destin Harbor and more fireworks at midnight.

Baytowne Countdown (Sandestin) - If you’re staying in Miramar Beach, the Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin hosts the Baytowne Countdown. Restaurants throughout the Village will feature drink specials and live music and guests may also enjoy live entertainment at the Events Plaza until 1am.  All ages welcome until 10pm; and 21 and over after 10pm (20 and under must be accompanied by a legal guardian after 10pm). For more information, call (850) 267-8110.

Countdown Seaside (Seaside/30A) - For those staying along Scenic Hwy 30A, Countdown Seaside is a family-friendly end of year celebration held at the Seaside Amphitheater. Enjoy live music from 7:30pm to 12:30am. Entertainment includes kids activities, street performers and fireworks at midnight.

Beach Ball Drop at Pier Park (Panama City Beach) - The New Year’s Eve Beach Ball Drop offers two opportunities to welcome in the New Year. The streets of Pier Park are closed off for the New Year’s Eve celebration, which includes live music, entertainment, fireworks, and good cheer. For families, the first Beach Ball Drops at 8:00 p.m., followed by a second Beach Ball Drop at midnight with an incredible fireworks display.  

Private Celebration (Destin/South Walton) - Looking for a more intimate celebration?  Stay within your comfortable South Walton or Destin vacation rental and ring in the New Year with family and friends.  From cozy South Walton and Destin condos to luxury rental homes in Miramar Beach and Destin, the options for hosting your own private celebration are plentiful.

Haven’t booked your Destin vacation rental? View our available South Walton and Destin rentals online, including rentals at Hidden Dunes Resort, or call one of our friendly vacation specialists at 1-800-225-7652 and expedite your search. 

See you @ the beach!