Communities across Okaloosa County are ringing in 2025 with an array of family-friendly events featuring fireworks displays, live entertainment, and festive activities throughout December 31.
Fort Walton Beach:
- The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island presents a festive evening with spectacular beachfront fireworks at 9 p.m., offering prime viewing from any of the boardwalk restaurants or along the beach. Local favorites including Rockin’ Tacos, The Crab Trap, and Floyd’s Shrimp & Steak will serve special New Year’s Eve menus.
- Entertainment includes live music and dancing throughout the evening, culminating in a complimentary champagne toast as guests countdown to the fireworks display.
Crestview:
- The downtown area transforms for the “Boots & Bling” themed celebration, headlined by the Below Alabama band. The event features a combination of live entertainment, local food trucks, and adult beverage options, all leading up to a fireworks display.
- Special VIP seating is available for groups wanting a premium experience, with tables of eight priced at $100 each. General admission remains free for all attendees.
Destin/Miramar Beach:
HarborWalk Village:
- A daytime family celebration runs from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., featuring an energetic DJ dance party on the lawn, interactive entertainment including stilt walkers, a family scavenger hunt, and various hands-on crafts and activities, all at no cost.
- The venue will showcase a unique daytime smoke-show fireworks display at noon over Destin Harbor, complemented by signature mocktail and cocktail tastings from event sponsors near the main stage. Free on-site parking is available for all attendees.
Fudpucker’s Beachside Bar and Grill:
- Their signature “Noon Year’s Eve” celebration kicks off at 10 a.m., offering a full morning of family entertainment including face painting, live DJ performances, and the restaurant’s famous alligator exhibits.
- The free event culminates in an exciting prize-filled balloon drop at noon, providing an early New Year’s celebration perfect for families with young children.
Village of Baytowne Wharf:
- Evening festivities begin with family-friendly entertainment from 6-8 p.m., including face painting and kids’ activities, with DJ QMoney providing musical entertainment, leading up to the first fireworks display at 8 p.m.
- The Party Feels takes the stage from 7 p.m. to 1 a.m., while two spectacular drone light shows illuminate the sky at 7:30 p.m. and 11:30 p.m., building anticipation for the midnight fireworks finale.
- The venue implements age restrictions after 10 p.m., limiting entry to guests 21 and older for the late-night celebration and midnight fireworks display.
