Chilly Friday morning with sunny skies expected in the afternoonRuling on abortion amendment expected on Monday
If you’re looking for fireworks displays and outdoor fun on New Year’s Eve in Southwest Florida, there are plenty of opportunities to choose from to celebrate the start of 2019. Cities in Southwest Florida are hosting events free to the public Monday, Dec. 31, and there are plenty more great venues to look for near you filled with fun festivities to enjoy with family and friends. FORT MYERS Downtown Countdown: River District Alliance hosts its annual New Year’s Eve celebration 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. on 1st and Hendry Street. Live music performed throughout the event. CAPE CORAL South Cape New Year’s Ball Drop: South Cape Hospitality and Entertainment Associations hosts its free celebration event 7 p.m. to 1 a.m. on SE 47th Terrace. Live music on the big stage. Open to all ages. FORT MYERS BEACH FMB New Year’s Eve/ Town Birthday Celebration: The double celebration event starts with the birthday party noon to 3:30 p.m. Live music begins at 5 p.m. until 1 a.m. when the celebration culminates with a ball drop and fireworks display immediately afterward. NAPLES New Year’s Eve Fireworks: Naples’ annual fireworks display will light up the sky at 7:00 p.m. Naples Pier will be closed at 5:00 p.m. to permit first responders (Fire, Police, EMS) to establish their posts for the fireworks display. The Naples Pier will reopen at 11:00 p.m. PUNTA GORDA Fishermen’s Village New Year’s Eve Celebration: Fishville’s New Year’s celebration starts at 6 p.m. running until midnight when the fireworks shows begins and ends at 12:30 a.m. The event offers a photo booth, glitter tattoos, face painting, hair dazzle, magic shows, balloon creations and more.