There’s no better way to put a bow on the past year than by welcoming the year to come with open arms. Venues around the city are putting together spectacular celebrations to kick off 2019, and we’ve compiled a list of a few of the best. Unless otherwise noted, all the events listed below are scheduled for December 31. Happy New Year!
New Year’s Eve at Busch Gardens
10 p.m. (included with park admission)
Ring in the New Year in a thrilling way at Busch Gardens. Guests can ride the electrifying roller coasters until 1 a.m. and dance to music throughout the entire park. At midnight, participate in a park-wide countdown and a fireworks show in Gwazi Park.
Busch Gardens
10165 N. McKinley Drive
(813) 844-4386 | buschgardens.com/tampa
New Year’s Eve at Bizou
10 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Bizou Brasserie is hosting Cirque de Bizou, which features illusionists, fire acts, LED spinners and more mesmerizing acts. Attendees can take pictures in a photo booth and watch the ball drop on the outdoor patio. General admission, dinner packages and VIP tables are available to reserve in advance.
Bizou Brasserie at Le Meridien
601 N. Florida Ave.
(813) 227-9555
bizoutampa.com
Forrest Hoffar’s New Years Rockin’ Eve
7 p.m.
Cocktail hour begins just as the doors open at the Ybor concert venue, and dinner is served shortly after. Performances begin at 9:30 and continue throughout the night until champagne toasts ring in the new year.
The Attic
1510 E. 8th Ave.
(813) 241-0110
facebook.com/theatticyborcity
Jackson’s Bistro New Year’s Eve 2019
9 p.m. to 3 a.m.
The dance floor is waiting for you at Jackson’s Bistro. Champagne toasts, a balloon drop, party favors, DJs and an amazing view of the Tampa waterfront are sure to make this night a New Year’s Eve to remember.
Jackson’s
601 South Harbour Island Blvd.
(813) 812-4950
jacksonsbistro.com
Pied Piper’s New Year’s Eve
9 p.m.
Actor and TV personality Mario Lopez is back to host this popular party for the second year in a row, kicking off 2019 with what the organizer says is the city’s only dual-barge fireworks display. The event also features a champagne toast, party favors and live entertainment.
WTR at The Godfrey Hotel
7700 W. Courtney Campbell Causeway
(813) 265-1234
wtrpool.com
Kids’ New Year’s Eve Balloon Drop
11:30 a.m.
Since most bedtimes fall well before midnight, Armature Works is hosting an early celebration for kids with a countdown to noon. There will be a Spheres Bubble and Magic Show and a sparkling cider toast with a balloon drop in the center courtyard.
Armature Works
1910 N. Ola Ave.
(813) 250-3725
armatureworks.com
New Year’s Eve Gala 2019 at Armature Works
9 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Later in the day, Armature Works will be hosting an event for the older crowd. Before the clock strikes midnight, guests can enjoy an open bar accompanied by a live band and DJ in The Gathering event space. At midnight, a fireworks display in front of the lawn will light up the night sky.
Armature Works
1910 N. Ola Ave.
(813) 250-3725
armatureworks.com
Noon Year’s Eve
10 a.m. to noon
The kids get in on the fun at Sparkman Wharf, where they can shake it to tunes by kid DJ Jake Dela Cruz and sip on juices provided by Honest Juice. Rather than fireworks, the “noon” year will be marked with a confetti drop on the lawn.
Sparkman Wharf
615 Channelside Drive
(813) 345-5881
sparkmanwharf.com
NYE Wrap Party 2018
9 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Toast with “Austin Powers”-themed signature cocktails at the Tampa Theatre’s annual New Year’s Eve event. Guests can devour Mini-Me-Mosas, hors d’oeuvres and desserts and dance to live music.
Tampa Theatre
711 N. Franklin St.
(813) 274-8286
tampatheatre.org
