Duval Street transforms into a pedestrian street party for New Year's Eve on Tuesday, December 31, 2025, marking the arrival of 2026. The event features multiple countdown drops, live entertainment, and crowds gathering along the mile-long stretch. Street closures begin in the afternoon to accommodate the festivities.
Date and Time
- December 31, 2025
- Activities start around 9:00 p.m.
- Midnight countdown and drops
- Continues into early January 1, 2026
Location and Route
- Centered on Duval Street, from lower Duval (near Sloppy Joe's Bar at 201 Duval St.) to upper Duval (Bourbon Street Pub at 724 Duval St.)
- Pedestrian-only access along the full length of Duval Street
- Adjacent areas include the Historic Seaport for related events
Activities
- Live music and performances starting at 9:00 p.m., including drag shows and dancing in the street
- Key drops at midnight:
- Conch Shell Drop at Sloppy Joe's Bar (31st annual): A large conch shell descends to the rooftop, emceed from above with a visible countdown clock
- Red Shoe Drop at Bourbon Street Pub/New Orleans House: Female impersonator Randy Roberts descends in an 8-foot red high-heel shoe from the balcony
- Additional entertainment at Schooner Wharf Bar (202 William St.): Pirate Wench Drop from the mast of the tall ship America 2.0, with cannons, live music, and dancing
- Street vendors and bars offer food, drinks, and casual viewing spots
- Free street viewing; VIP balcony tickets available for select venues (e.g., Bourbon Street Pub, starting at $100–$200, include open bar and hors d'oeuvres)
Additional Information
- Managed by Key West Police Department; expect heavy crowds and limited vehicle access
- Weather typically mild (evening temperatures in the mid-70s°F)
- Family-friendly until late evening; event appeals to diverse groups, including LGBTQ+ community
- No formal vendor fair, but Duval Street bars and pop-up spots provide food and beverages
Related Events
- Pre-midnight: Happy hours and dinners at resorts like The Reach Key West (1435 Simonton St.), with live music from 4:00 p.m.
- January 1, 2026: Hangover Brunch options, such as at Four Marlins with bottomless mimosas starting at 10:00 a.m.
For updates on closures, tickets, or weather impacts, check fla-keys.com/calendar or the City of Key West website.