5 U.S., Caribbean Destinations with Quirky New Year’s Eve Celebrations

Almost all of us have either witnessed firsthand or seen on television the ball drop to mark the new year, so why repeat the tradition when you can experience an exceptionally unique New Year’s Eve celebration instead? These five destinations across the United States and Caribbean have some pretty quirky ways to ring in the new year.

© Visit Sarasota

Watch a Giant Pineapple Drop in Sarasota, Florida

Every New Year’s Eve, downtown Sarasota drops a giant, glowing pineapple above Main Street just before midnight, followed by fireworks over Sarasota Bay. The drop is a nod to Florida’s tropical flair and the city’s welcoming spirit. It’s a tradition that draws more than 20,000 people each year since 2009.

© New Year’s Eve on the Plaza

Witness a Zia Symbol Rise in the Sky in Santa Fe, New Mexico

The 10^th annual New Year’s Eve on the Plaza celebration in Santa Fe is particularly different because of one thing: nothing drops. Instead, a colorful Zia symbol, created by a local artisan, rises at midnight against a backdrop of fireworks launched from La Fonda on the Plaza. The celebration also includes entertainment, food trucks, hot cocoa and piñon-scented bonfires.

© Tourism St. Barts

Cheer on Sailors at a New Year’s Eve Regatta in St. Barths

Down in the Caribbean, St. Barths transforms into a festive playground on New Year’s Eve with its famed New Year’s Eve Regatta. Spectate from Gustavia Harbor as racers navigate a 24-mile course, which culminates in a fireworks display. The excitement then continues with cocktail gatherings, skipper briefings and awards ceremonies.

© Visit Eastover

See a Giant Flea Drop in Eastover, North Carolina

Yes, you read that right. A 30-pound flea named Jasper, made from fabric, foam wire and wood, is dropped. This unusual tradition harkens back to a local legend: In the 19^th century, a colony of fleas reportedly infested the sandy soil beneath Salem United Methodist Church, earning the community the nickname “Flea Hill.”

Stand Beneath 15,000 Falling Beach Balls in Panama City Beach, Florida

Confetti is replaced with 15,000 inflatable beach balls that fill the air during the countdown to the new year. The city’s beach ball drop, presented by Coca-Cola, has two simultaneous countdowns — one along Pier Park Drive and another at Aaron Bessant Park. Across both locations, colorful beach balls are released, followed by fireworks.