OCALA, FL (352today.com) – It’s just about time to welcome in 2026, and if you haven’t yet firmed up your New Year’s Eve plans, we’ve got a big list of exciting possibilities.
Here are some of the best and most interesting NYE soirees going down in the 352, at all price points, from free events to luxe, high-end dance parties. And even if you’ve decided to stay home this year, we’ve all made that last-minute choice to suit up and strike out in search of some New Year’s fun–maybe at more than one!
New Year’s Eve Dance Party at WEC
What: New Year’s Eve party with live music, games, a light buffet, complimentary champaign, a photo booth and final countdown.
When: Dec. 31, 2025, from 8 p.m.-12:30 a.m.
Where: World Equestrian Center, 1750 NW 80th Ave., Ocala
Cost: $125 GA, $30 per child (5-12)
Happy New Year at Champion Run
What: Live music, dinner catered by Live Fire Chefs
When: Dec. 31, 2025, starting at 5 p.m.
Where: Champion Run clubhouse, 4213 NW 27th Pl., Ocala
Cost: $60
New Year’s Eve at Black Sheep
What: New Year’s Eve Party with a 4-bag ballon drop at midnight with money and prizes inside and a free Champagne toast.
When: Dec. 31, 2025, from 6 p.m.-1 a.m.
Where: Black Sheep on Broadway, 128 SW Broadway St., Ocala
Cost: Free
Prelude to Midnight
What: Celebrate the new year with a string quartet, dinner, cocktails and a countdown with proceeds benefiting the Ocala Symphony Orchestra.
When: Dec. 31, 2025, starting at 6 p.m.
Where: Country Club of Ocala, 6823 SE 12th Circle, Ocala
Cost: $200
NYE Casino Night at Katya Vineyards
What: Professional blackjack, craps and roulette tables with $100 in playing chips included for high-value prizes. Live music, gourmet hors d’oeuvres, a ball drop and Champagne toast.
When: Dec. 31, 2025, starting at 7 p.m.
Where: Katya Vineyards, 11 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala
Cost: $250
OPRY New Year’s Eve Show
What: A concert to commemorate the ending of 2025 and ring in 2026. Live music, party favors, a photo booth and light refreshments make for an apt New Year’s celebration.
When: Dec. 31, 2025, starting at 7 p.m.
Where: Orange Blossom Opry, 16439 SE 138th Terrace, Weirsdale
Cost: $38-$53
New Year’s Eve with The 789s
What: The 789s will be playing live hits from the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s to close out 2025.
When: Dec. 31, 2025, from 5-9 p.m.
Where: Brownwood Paddock Square, 2705 W. Torch Lake Dr., Wildwood (The Villages)
Cost: Free
Diva Legends New Year’s Eve Concert
What: Donna Moore will be performing a live tribute singing the songs of multiple well-known artists. Dinner is included.
When: Dec. 31, 2025, from 7-9 p.m.
Where: Grand Oaks Resort, 3000 Marion County Rd., Weirsdale
Cost: $50 GA, $58 VIP
Time Machine at City Fire Sumter
What: Dinner, dancing, a casino, a midnight balloon drop and a Champagne toast along with live music form the cover band Time Machine.
When: Dec. 31, 2025, 8 p.m.-12:15 a.m.
Where: City Fire American Oven & Bar, 2716 Brownwood Blvd., The Villages
Cost: $135 per person. Reservation only
25/26 New Year’s Eve Ball at Eisenhower Recreation Center
What: A fine year-ending ball featuring Latin and swing dancing, with a light buffet and photo booth.
When: Dec. 31, 2025, starting at 8:30 p.m.
Where: Eisenhower Recreation Center, 3560 Buena Vista Blvd., The Villages
Cost: $35 per person.
