It’s been a tough year and it’s time to blow off some steam! Take this NYE as an opportunity to celebrate with your friends and meet new people in a fun and inclusive space. If you’re still undecided on where to go or what to do, we’ve compiled a list of the hottest LGBTQ+ events throughout the state of Florida to ring in the new year. Get ready to celebrate a gay New Year’s Eve in Florida!
Also make sure to check out our complete list of LGBTQ Bars & Clubs in Florida for more LGBTQ New Year’s Eve events happening throughout the state.
Note: Not all New Year’s Eve events listed below are LGBTQ-themed or hosted, but all are inclusive!
The Best LGBTQ+ Events & Venues For A New Year’s Eve Celebration In Florida
Here are some ideas for what you can do or where you can go to celebrate a gay New Year’s Eve in Florida and ring in 2022. Note that except when specified, all these events take place on December 31, 2021.
Tampa
Looking to live it up in Tampa this NYE? Fortunately, you’ll be spoiled for choice, there’s a wide variety of ways to celebrate the new year. From romantic cruises, crazy parties, and family-friendly events await – here are our top picks!
ZOOTAMPA at Lowry Park
When: Dec. 31, 2022 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: 1101 W Sligh Ave, Tampa, FL 33604
The festivities start earlier at Zootampa, so head there to celebrate in the daytime with your whole family! Featuring hourly toasts, a DJ dance party, and several contests and giveaways, it’s a fun way to celebrate a kid-friendly NYE. The whole-day party doesn’t need reservations and is considered part of your daily admission or Zoo membership.
Armature Works’ NYE Riverfront Concert & Fireworks
When: Dec. 31, 2022 8 p.m. to 11:59 p.m.
Where: 1910 N Ola Ave, Tampa, FL 33602
Midnight revelers will enjoy Armature Works’ Annual New Year’s Eve Celebration. Ring in the New Year with a midnight fireworks display, riverfront concert, and live music at the Riverfront Stage. Satellite bars will be available for easy ordering apart from Armature Works’ 18 food and drink options.
This event is also free and open to the public, but VIP tickets are available for those 21+ and offer exclusive perks. A VIP ticket offers access to a private bar, a complimentary midnight champagne toast and a specialty cocktail, and a prime seat for viewing fireworks and entertainment. Hurry though – Early Bird VIP tickets are already on sale at $100 a ticket, and prices will go up as the event gets closer!
Pirate Taxi’s New Year’s Eve Cruise
When: Dec. 31, 2022 11:30 p.m. to Jan. 1, 2023 12:30 a.m.
Where: Tampa Convention Center, 333 S Franklin St, Tampa, FL 33602
Why ring in the New Year when you can set sail towards it? Enjoy a pirate party cruise for an hour with a front row seat to the incredible fireworks show at downtown Tampa. Your cruise comes inclusive of a complimentary champagne toast at midnight, party favors, and a complimentary open bar for those 21+.
Feel free to dress casually, but pirate garb is strongly encouraged! Souvenirs can also be purchased abroad. Tickets for adults start at $69.95 plus $2 marine fee and tax, while children’s tickets start at $49.95 plus $2 marine fee and tax.
St. Pete and Clearwater
Whether you’re visiting the St. Pete/Clearwater area or are a local, you’ll be spoiled for choice with all the merry NYE events taking place there. Beachside fireworks, chill cocktail hours, and huge parties await!
Light It Up Clearwater Fireworks Celebration
When: Fireworks begin at 11:59 p.m. Dec. 31, 2022
Where: 429 Poinsettia Ave, Clearwater Beach, FL 33767
Come to Clearwater Beach to enjoy Light It Up Clearwater, their annual fireworks celebration. Relax in the sand, enjoy the sunset, get a snack, then get ready to celebrate the new year at midnight! The fireworks display this year will take place on the northernmost part of Sand Key Park, which will be closed to the public.
Though this awesome display will be visible along the whole beach, make sure to save a seat at the southern part of Clearwater Beach – this is the best viewing area!
First Night In Downtown St. Pete
When: Festivities start at 2 p.m. Dec. 31, 2022
Where: Downtown St. Petersburg, FL, 33731
First Night St. Pete’s Annual New Year’s Eve Celebration is one of the most highly anticipated NYE events in the area for a reason! This collaboration between local venues, artists, and performers features fireworks, incredible live music, dancing, games, art, and more.
NYE – St. Pete 2 Ibiza
When: Dec. 31, 202212 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Where: 6300 Gulf Blvd, St Pete Beach, Florida 33706
Raise a glass to the new year at the Postcard Inn! Enter for free and dance the day away to live music with great beats courtesy of DJ Deville & DJ Barry Carew. Be awestruck by the fireworks display by St. Pete’s Beach right in front of the inn at 8 p.m.
Sarasota
Home to several gay bars, shops, and restaurants, Sarasota is famous for its beautiful beaches. Get accommodations near the beach for the NYE weekend and check out nightlife hotspots like Purple Rhino.
New Year’s Rooftop Soiree
When: Dec. 31, 2022, 9 p.m. to Jan. 1, 2023, 1 a.m.
Where: The Westin Sarasota Rooftop, 100 Marina View Drive, Sarasota
Celebrate your new year’s with spectacular views overlooking downtown Sarasota on the rooftop of The Westin. Ring in the new year with dancing to a live DJ, party favors, and a champaign toast.
Naples
If you’re in Naples this NYE, there are several big celebrations and LGBTQ-friendly spots you must visit!
Naples New Year’s Eve Fireworks
When: Cancelled this year
Where: Naples Pier, 25 12th Avenue South, Naples, FL 34102
Celebrate the New Year with a bang and visit the Naples Pier for the free fireworks display. Visitors and residents are welcome to bring their own chairs and blankets. Be dazzled by the half-hour minute light show just over the Gulf of Mexico!
Cavo Lounge New Years Eve Party
When: Dec. 31, 2022 – Dinner 5:30 – 9 p.m. or Party 10 p.m.
Where: 9108 Strada Pl, 9108 Strada Place, Naples, FL 34108
Treat yourself to a unique dining experience at LGBTQ-friendly hot spot Cavo Lounge on NYE. Grab your reservation for a delicious three-course New Year’s Eve dinner costs $85. Or get a ticket for the party for $50 . Partying and dancing will go well into the wee hours of the morning, so dress to the nines and get ready for a raucous night out!
Miami Beach
Sun-soaked Miami is famous for its gay and lesbian clubs where you can party your cares away. After visiting gay-friendly spots such as R House, Club Space, and the Wynwoods Art District, you can celebrate NYE at these fun events.
Palace Bar New Year’s Eve Dinner Drag
When: Seating begins at 8 p.m. Dec. 31, 2022
Where: 1052 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach, FL 33139
Get ready for the Palace Bar’s New Years’s Eve Dinner Drag Show! Famous for its nightly drag shows on Ocean Drive, it’s the perfect place to celebrate with incredible entertainment, drinks, and food.
Celebrate with their A-List three-course prix fixe dinner and a glass of champagne for $105, or toast with bottles of Veuve Cliquot, Moet & Chandon, and Dom Perignon at special prices. The Miami Beach fireworks display starts at midnight.
Miami Under the Fireworks Yacht Party New Year’s Eve 2022
When: Dec. 31, 2022 8:30 p.m. to Jan. 1, 2023 2 a.m.
Where: South Beach Lady – Downtown Hyatt, 400 SE 2nd Ave., Miami, FL 33140
Ring in the New Year in style and join Miami Nightlife’s celebration aboard the 350-passenger South Beach Lady Mega Yacht. Cruise tickets come inclusive of a premium open bar, dinner buffet, four decks for dancing and mingling, live DJs, and fantastic views of Miami’s fireworks show. Ticket prices range from $309 to $489.
Dreamland New Year’s Celebration In Miami Beach
When: Dec 29, 2022 to Jan 2, 2023
Where: Miami Beach, Miami Beach, FL 33139
This four-day New Year celebration has been dubbed “Queer-chella” by Out for a reason! This event is headlined by Kim Petras and features performances from Todrick Hall, Sofi Tukker, and Purple Disco Machine.
You can purchase single-event tickets to party at your event of choice. However, getting a full-access pass for all event days is highly recommended so you can enjoy all the evening celebrations, daytime activities, and a stay at Clevelander South Beach, the host hotel.
New Year’s Eve At The Fontainebleau Miami Beach
When: Dec. 31, 2022, 9 p.m. to Jan. 1, 2023, 2 a.m.
Where: 4441 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, FL 33140
Celebrate at the iconic and historic Fontainebleau Miami Beach. This year’s revelry features Marshmello + Khalid performing poolside. Enjoy an unforgettable night with any of their ticket or table packages, featuring reserved tables and open bar options. Whether you spring for Premium Admission, a reserved table, or an all-ages celebration at the Family Experience Area, you’re sure to ring in the new year in style!
W Hotel Miami New Year’s Eve Party
When: Dec. 31, 2022, 9 p.m. to Jan. 1, 2022, 1 a.m.
Where: W Miami Downtown – 15th Floor Rooftop Lounge, 485 Brickell Ave, 15th Floor, Miami, FL 33131
The tagline for this fun NYE party is “Kiss it goodbye!”, so come dressed to impress and ready to dance your cares off at the W Hotel! All tickets come inclusive of access to complimentary party favors, the premium open bar and a jawdropping view of the Biscayne Bay private fireworks show.
The VIP packages come with champagne service, access to a private VIP section with its own bars, and upgraded party favors. Buy a ticket and see for yourself why they proudly boast that they’re the top-rated countdown in downtown Miami!
Wilton Manors
Wilton Manors is an inclusive destination where you can learn more about the scene and visit many famous gay hotspots. After booking accommodations at one of their affordable and cozy hotels, go out and have an incredible New Year’s Eve celebration!
The Manor’s NYE: Neptune’s Kingdom
When: Dec. 31, 2022, 8 p.m. to Jan. 1, 2023, 4 a.m.
Where: 2345 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors, FL 33305
Party on New Year’s Eve at one of South Florida’s largest nightclubs, with music by DJ NINA FLOWERS and a performance by ZHANA SAUNDERS and many more. Choreographed productions and surprises await partygoers, as well as a balloon drop at midnight and live Times Square simulcast.
Get a General Admission ticket or book VIP table service. Premium bottle service is also available, so you can toast with your favorite tipple while you enjoy a fantastic view overlooking the crowd.
Fort Lauderdale
Planning to celebrate around the East Coast? Head over to Fort Lauderdale to celebrate at some of the largest, most exciting NYE events in Florida. LGBTQ parties, free firework shops, and galas await!
Fort Lauderdale Orange Bowl
When: Dec. 31, 2022 4:30 p.m. to Jan. 1, 2023 1 a.m.
Where: SW 2nd Street and SW 5th Avenue, Fort Lauderdale
Held since 2011, this free street festival is known as one of the best and largest New Year’s Eve celebrations in Florida. Every year, partiers head downtown to watch the incredible lighted drop at midnight and dance to live music. Families should bring their kids to join in the fun, as the Orange Bowl Downtown Countdown has kid-friendly activities like face painting, bounce houses, and their own special countdown!
Captain’s Ball at The Wharf
When: Dec. 31, 2022 6 p.m. to Jan. 1, 2023 3 a.m.
Where: 20 W Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
Celebrate the night away at The Wharf Fort Lauderdale. Feel like the captain of your own ship as you count down to the new year with music, dancing, great food, and remarkable views of The New River.
Mona’s New Year’s Eve Celebration
When: Dec. 31, 2022 – Jan. 1, 2023
Where: 502 E Sunrise Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
Toast to the New Year at Mona’s, an iconic Fort Lauderdale gay bar. There’s a champagne toast at midnight, so come over and get those hats and noisemakers ready! Tip: pop over for their happy hour specials if you want to get the party started early!
Lips Drag New Year’s Eve Celebration
When: Seating slots for 7 p.m. at 9:30 p.m. Dec. 31, 2022
Where: 1421 E. Oakland Park Blvd., Fort Lauderdale
NYE doesn’t have to be a drag! Celebrate with the glamorous ladies of drag-licious Lips, known for the incredible performances and great food. A ticket for the 7 p.m. seating costs $45, and includes a three-course meal and show. The 9:30 p.m. seating costs $85 and includes a three-course meal, show, party favors and midnight champagne toast. Don’t delay booking a reservation, because tickets sell out fast!
Pensacola
Pensacola has a lively scene with many gay-friendly businesses and LGBTQ clubs. It’s also home to the south’s biggest yearly LGBT Pride event! Check out the multiple nightlife and dining options here before heading out to celebrate 2022.
Ring In The New Year With The Pensacola Beach Chamber of Commerce
When: Dec. 31, 2022, 11:55 p.m. to Jan. 1, 2023, 12:30 a.m.
Where: 400 Quietwater Beach Rd, Pensacola Beach, FL 32561
What better way to celebrate the New Year than with an incredible fireworks display? Head over to the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk to watch a dazzling light display. Provided for free by the beach chamber, it will take place overlooking the Santa Rosa Sound near the boardwalk.
New Year’s Eve at Seville Quarter
When: Dec. 31, 2022, 8 p.m. to Jan. 1, 2023, 3 a.m.
Where: 130 E Government St, Pensacola, FL 32502
You will not want to miss one of the biggest New Year’s Eve parties on the Gulf Coast. Every year, the streets of Seville Quarter are filled with music and dancing. Enjoy the amazing line up of performers for the four stages. They have packages for all budgets. The locals recommend the Membership Party Package for $80 which has benefits all year long.
Orlando
Orlando is best known for its theme parks, incredible natural attractions, and fabulous restaurants. Here’s an NYE event you should definitely check out after a fun day exploring the city!
New Year’s Eve At Tin Roof Orlando
When: Dec. 31, 2022, 8 p.m. to Jan. 1, 2023 (close TBD)
Where: 8371 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819
Celebrate the new year with a bang at Tin Roof, Vegas-style! Join the biggest party in Icon Park with Vegas-themed games, live bands, DJs and a complimentary midnight champagne toast
Choose from their VIP Fast Pass Entry, Live Music Room seats, Patio Table, or DJ Side Vegas Table. Tickets range from $25 to $600, and their premium packages come inclusive of champagne and a charcuterie board. Reserve your tickets and get ready for a night of good beats and even better vibes.
DeLand
DeLand is a great destination for an NYE weekend away, with its “Love Is Love” street parties and drag shows. After enjoying craft beer and noteworthy wines at Abbey Bar, head on to this event to greet 2022!
All That Glitter! New Year’s Eve Dinner & Drag Show
When: Dec. 31, 2022 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Where: 208 W Howry Ave, 208 West Howry Avenue, DeLand, FL 32720
Dress in your glitziest twenties-inspired threads and ring in the New Year at the Spellbound Cafe! This year’s revels feature performances by Ms. Ashley Satine & Bridgette Galore.
Tickets are priced at $99. A glamorous, gay dinner and drag show awaits guests, as well as two glasses of complimentary champagne. Nibble on canapes and get ready for a fabulous evening that’s not to be missed!
Key West
Key West is home to incredible gay nightclubs, historic cafes, and amazing drag shows, making it the perfect choice for a gay, happy New Year!
New Year’s Eve Key West The Shoe Drop!
When: Dec. 31, 2022, 0:30 p.m. to Jan. 1, 2023, 12:30 a.m.
Where: 724 Duval St, Key West, FL 33040, United States
Widely considered Key West’s centerpiece for its New Year celebration, this event features famous Key West drag queen Sushi. Watch her descend from a giant red pump lowered from the balcony of Bourbon Street Pub. A live musical dance and impersonation show will entertain guests before Sushi is lowered to the awestruck crowd!
Sloppy Joe’s Annual Dropping of the Conch Shell
When: Dec. 31, 2022, 11 a.m. to Jan. 1, 2023, 12:30 a.m.
Where: 201 Duval Street, Key West, Florida 33040
Spend your New Year’s Eve enjoying live music, food and dancing. Then stay as a huge clock counts down the seconds to midnight as they “drop” a gigantic manmade conch shell, the symbol of the Florida Keys. You will want to get there early because the tables are first come first serve.
The Schooner Wharf Bar New Year’s Eve Celebration
When: Dec. 31, 2022, 11:30 a.m. to Jan. 1, 2023, 4 a.m.
Where: 202 William Street, Key West, FL 33040
The NYE partying starts early at the Schooner Wharf Bar, with guitarist Michael McCloud performing for the crowd at 11:30 a.m. Live music, holiday drink specials, and complimentary hats await revelers. Keep your eyes peeled for pirate wench and Schooner co-owner Evalena Worthington as she descends against a dramatic midnight countdown!
Find The Perfect Way To Ring In A Gay, Happy New Year!
With so many different events and venues to choose from in this guide, you’ll be able to find the right event or venue for your gay New Year’s Eve. Take your pick from these amazing choices, put on your party clothes, and get ready to have an amazing time!
Click here for a full list of LGBTQ Bars & Clubs in Florida. We don’t doubt that parties are happening throughout the state!
Check out our event calendar for a full list of party ideas!
Whatever you decide to do on NYE, have fun and BE SAFE! Happy New Year.
***Disclaimer: There is a good chance that this post contains affiliate or sponsor links. If you make a purchase through them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you (for which we are extremely grateful).
Also, while we do our best to highlight LGBTQ-friendly destinations and businesses, info provided is based solely on personal experience and recommendations by community partners. We hope that nobody experiences discrimination or homophobia while visiting Florida, but we make no guarantees. Please inform us if you experience discrimination or homophobia while visiting any destination so we can make updates to our recommendations.
