The Pelican Drop again lights up downtown Pensacola on New Year’s Eve, welcoming the arrival of 2012. At the end of December, we turn the page on yet another year and welcome the arrival of 2012 – no matter what ominous predictions the Mayans made about Dec. 21 of next year in their infamous “Long Count Calendar.” If you’re looking for a great place to sing “Auld Lang Syne” on New Year’s Eve, check out one of these great end of the year parties.

Downtown Pensacola New Year’s Eve Pelican Drop

Ring in the new year in downtown Pensacola with The Pensacola Pelican Drop, a free event unique to the Gulf Coast. Festivities kick off at 5 p.m. on New Year's Eve and continue until 12:30 a.m.

Throughout the evening the giant Pelican (14 feet tall, with a 20-foot wingspan) is perched above the celebration on a 100-foot platform at the intersection of Palafox and Government Streets. Although Palafox and Government Street will be closed to traffic, area restaurants will be open and additional vendors will be providing refreshments.

Live performances on three outdoor stages provide ongoing entertainment throughout the evening. The popular kids’ area will be expanded this year and will feature the special kids’ countdown at 8 p.m. with confetti and the “bubble stomp.”

At the stroke of midnight, the whole city celebrates as the Pelican descends amidst fireworks and more confetti.

For more information, call 850- 435-1673 or visit www.pensacolapelicandrop.com.

Pensacola Beach New Year’s Eve Celebration

Ring in the New Year with islandwide celebrations across Pensacola Beach. The main event is a dazzling fireworks display from the end of the Gulf Pier at midnight.

The Sandshaker Lounge will provide complimentary champagne at midnight and other great party favors. It also offers the best view of the fireworks from the Observation Deck. The party starts at 9 p.m. and continues until 1 a.m.

For more information, contact the Visitors Information Center at 850- 932-1500 or visit www.pensacolabeachchamber.com.

HarborWalk Village New Year’s Eve Celebration

Dine, drink, and dance into the New Year at the many restaurants and bars at Destin’s HarborWalk Village. Festivities begin at 7 p.m., featuring the 3rd annual ball drop, live music on the Village stage, and fireworks over the Destin Harbor – a New Year's celebration not to miss!

For more information, call 850- 424-0600.

Village of Baytowne Wharf’s Baytowne Countdown

The Village of Baytowne Wharf in Sandestin hosts its New Year’s Eve celebration, Baytowne Countdown, from 7p.m. to midnight.

You don't want to miss The Village of Baytowne Wharf's end-of-year party! Go dance the night away and enjoy live bands and breathtaking fireworks, as they light up the sky over the lagoon at midnight.’

Call 850-267-8110 or visit www.sandestin.com/events for more information.

Get out and have some fun for the last time in 2011, but be safe.

If you’re not too hungover from the party, or if you’re still a little tipsy, go ahead and do your best polar bear impression by maniacally diving into the frigid water on New Year’s Day. You can warm up with a hot bowl of black eyed peas.