Jacksonville and Fernandina Beach, December 27, 2025
As 2025 comes to a close, Jacksonville and Fernandina Beach are gearing up for diverse celebrations including fireworks, a rooftop bash, and unique local traditions. From a grand fireworks display over the St. Johns River to fun events like the Shrimp Drop in Fernandina Beach, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. These festivities promise to create memorable experiences for residents and visitors alike, offering a varied selection of activities to welcome 2026.
Jacksonville and Fernandina Beach Prepare for Spectacular New Year’s Eve Celebrations
As 2025 draws to a close, Jacksonville and Fernandina Beach are set to host a variety of exciting events to ring in the New Year. From dazzling fireworks displays to unique traditions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Jacksonville’s Grand Fireworks Display
Jacksonville will usher in 2026 with a spectacular fireworks show over the St. Johns River. The display is scheduled to begin at midnight on December 31, 2025, and will be visible from both the North and South banks of Downtown Jacksonville, as well as from Brooklyn and under the Fuller Warren Bridge where the Riverside Arts Market is held. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot along the waterfront. This event is free and open to the public.
New Year’s Eve Rooftop Bash at Estrella Cocina
For those seeking a lively atmosphere, Estrella Cocina in Downtown Jacksonville is hosting a New Year’s Eve Rooftop Bash. The event features an all-you-can-eat Whole Hog Carnitas Buffet, a complimentary sparkling champagne toast, and exclusive access to Estrella Jax Rooftop. Tickets are priced at $90 per person and are available through Eventbrite.
New Year’s Eve Teal-Gate Fundraiser at James Weldon Johnson Park
James Weldon Johnson Park is hosting a New Year’s Eve Teal-Gate Fundraiser to benefit the park. The event starts at 10:00 AM on December 31, 2025, and features live music from Paul Ivey and the Souls of Joy, drinks, food, raffles, and games. This community event offers a festive way to support local initiatives.
Fernandina Beach’s New Year’s Eve Shrimp Drop
Fernandina Beach will celebrate the New Year with its annual New Year’s Eve Shrimp Drop. The festivities begin at 6:00 PM on December 31, 2025, at the Marina Parking Lot B. The event includes live music, food vendors, and the dropping of a giant LED-lighted shrimp at 7:00 PM, followed by fireworks. This family-friendly event is free and open to the public.
New Year’s Eve Dining Experience at Hoyt House
For a more intimate celebration, the Hoyt House in Downtown Fernandina is offering a New Year’s Eve Dining Experience. The evening includes a glass of sparkling wine, hand-passed hors d’oeuvres, and an interactive five-course seasonal tasting menu by Executive Chef Brian Frank. Guests can also opt for a four-varietal wine pairing. Limited tickets are available, with prices starting at $145 per person.
USS Orleck New Year’s Eve Ship Bash
For a unique experience, the USS Orleck Naval Museum in Jacksonville is hosting a New Year’s Eve Ship Bash. The event includes live music by the Mandalla Band, dancing, and a midnight fireworks display. VIP tickets are available for $160, offering early access, access to both ship decks and pier-side areas, pier-side dancing with seating, appetizers from 8–10 PM, and an open bar. General Admission tickets are available for $50 in advance or $65 at the gate, providing access to the pier starting at 10:00 PM, dancing by the water, a cash bar, and a complimentary first drink.
New Year’s Eve Countdown at Citri San Marco
Citri San Marco is hosting a New Year’s Eve Countdown Party starting at 7:30 PM on December 31, 2025. The event includes a reception, dinner, dancing, an open bar, party favors, and a champagne toast at midnight. Tickets are priced at $200 per person for the full experience and $100 per person for the party-only option.
New Year’s Eve Community Party at St. Johns Forest Clubhouse
The St. Johns Forest Clubhouse is hosting a New Year’s Eve Community Party from 9:00 PM to 12:30 AM on December 31, 2025. The event features a live DJ, catered snacks and refreshments, dancing, and a BYOB policy. This free event is open to residents and their guests.
Event Highlights
Whether you’re looking for a grand fireworks display, a festive party, or a unique local tradition, Jacksonville and Fernandina Beach offer a variety of events to help you celebrate the arrival of 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What time does the New Year’s Eve fireworks show in Jacksonville start?
The fireworks show in Jacksonville is scheduled to begin at midnight on December 31, 2025.
Where can I view the fireworks in Jacksonville?
The fireworks display will be visible from both the North and South banks of Downtown Jacksonville, as well as from Brooklyn and under the Fuller Warren Bridge where the Riverside Arts Market is held.
What is the New Year’s Eve Shrimp Drop in Fernandina Beach?
The New Year’s Eve Shrimp Drop is a family-friendly event in Fernandina Beach that includes live music, food vendors, and the dropping of a giant LED-lighted shrimp at 7:00 PM, followed by fireworks.
How can I purchase tickets for the New Year’s Eve Rooftop Bash at Estrella Cocina?
Tickets for the New Year’s Eve Rooftop Bash at Estrella Cocina are available through Eventbrite.
What is the New Year’s Eve Teal-Gate Fundraiser at James Weldon Johnson Park?
The New Year’s Eve Teal-Gate Fundraiser at James Weldon Johnson Park is an event featuring live music, drinks, food, raffles, and games, starting at 10:00 AM on December 31, 2025.
Event Features
| Event | Location | Date & Time | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jacksonville Fireworks Display | St. Johns River, Jacksonville, FL | December 31, 2025, at midnight | Free public event with fireworks visible from various locations along the river. |
| New Year’s Eve Rooftop Bash at Estrella Cocina | Estrella Cocina, Downtown Jacksonville, FL | December 31, 2025, 8:00 PM – 1:00 AM | Tickets required; includes buffet, champagne toast, and rooftop access. |
| New Year’s Eve Teal-Gate Fundraiser | James Weldon Johnson Park, Jacksonville, FL | December 31, 2025, starting at 10:00 AM | Community event with live music, food, and games. |
| New Year’s Eve Shrimp Drop | Marina Parking Lot B, Fernandina Beach, FL | December 31, 2025, starting at 6:00 PM | Includes live music, food vendors, and a giant LED-lighted shrimp drop. |
| New Year’s Eve Dining Experience at Hoyt House | Hoyt House, Downtown Fernandina, FL | December 31, 2025 | Interactive five-course tasting menu; limited tickets available. |
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Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
