Local Communities Prepare for New Year’s Eve 2025–2026 Celebrations Across Topsail Island and Coastal NC
As the final days of 2025 approach, towns across Topsail Island, Sneads Ferry, Surf City, Onslow County, and neighboring coastal communities are preparing for a full slate of New Year’s Eve events designed to welcome 2026. From daytime family programming and early evening fireworks to late-night parties, themed events, and brewery celebrations, local venues and organizations are once again offering residents and visitors multiple ways to mark the transition into the new year.
Daytime and Family-Oriented Events
Jacksonville Hosts Creative and Family Celebrations
In Jacksonville, FireFlies Pottery and Art Studio will host a daytime New Year’s Eve celebration on December 31 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The event doubles as the studio’s 10-year anniversary and includes a decade-themed program, pottery painting discounts, raffles, and in-studio activities aimed at families and casual participants.
Nearby, Zing Zumm Children’s Museum will hold its annual Noon Year’s Eve celebration from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The event features a balloon drop at noon, hands-on activities, and festive programming geared toward younger children. Pre-registration is required, with early access offered to museum members.
Burgaw’s Signature Blueberry Drop Returns
In Pender County, downtown Burgaw will host its annual Blueberry Drop on December 31 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. The community event includes food vendors, live music by Carl Newton’s Review, fireworks, and the ceremonial blueberry drop at 7:00 p.m. The early-evening schedule continues to make the event a popular option for families and those seeking a New Year’s celebration before midnight.
Evening and Late-Night Celebrations
Sneads Ferry and Topsail Area Breweries
In Sneads Ferry, Topsail Island Brewing will host its second annual New Year’s Eve Pajama Party beginning at 7:00 p.m. on December 31. The all-ages event encourages guests to attend in comfortable attire and includes music, giveaways, and a midnight toast.
Also in Sneads Ferry, Voodoo Brewing Co. - Sneads Ferry is scheduled to host a New Year’s Eve celebration from 6:00 p.m. until 2:00 a.m. The evening begins with a karaoke kickoff, followed by a live DJ, dancing, and a midnight countdown. Guests will have access to craft beer, specialty cocktails, and the brewpub’s elevated comfort food menu.
Community and Veterans Events
In Holly Ridge, VFW Post 9983 will host a New Year’s Eve party from 7:00 p.m. to midnight. The event is open to all branches of military service and includes food, drinks, and music in a community-focused setting.
Surf City Nightlife Rings in 2026
Several Surf City venues are planning themed and late-night celebrations. Tortuga's Nest will host a Roaring 20s and Gatsby-themed New Year’s Eve party. Doors open at 6:00 p.m., with a DJ beginning at 9:00 p.m., followed by a midnight countdown and complimentary champagne toast. Guests are encouraged to dress in Gatsby-era attire and enjoy one of the largest dance floors in town.
Velvet Cocktail will offer an upscale masquerade-themed New Year’s Eve event starting at 9:00 p.m., featuring a DJ, specialty cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, a photo booth, and a champagne toast at midnight. A cover charge applies, and reservations are limited.
For those seeking a more casual setting, The Trailer Bar is expected to be open on New Year’s Eve, typically offering live music in a relaxed local atmosphere. The venue generally operates without a cover charge and requires a nominal annual membership.
Meanwhile, High Waters Sports & Grill will feature New Year’s dining and drink specials beginning at 4:00 p.m. on December 31 and continuing into January 1. The restaurant plans to offer a holiday menu alongside signature cocktails such as margaritas, Bloody Marys, and mimosas.
Welcoming the New Year Outdoors
On New Year’s Day, Hammocks Beach State Park will host a First Day Hike from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. The guided two-mile maritime eco-hike begins at the visitor center trailhead and offers participants a nature-focused way to start 2026.
Community Outlook
With events spread across multiple towns and timeframes, local leaders and businesses expect New Year’s Eve 2025–2026 celebrations to draw both residents and holiday visitors. Attendees are encouraged to confirm event details, reservations, age requirements, and cover charges directly with venues as December 31 approaches.
About the Author
Written by J.L. Wells, a longtime Topsail Island resident and owner-operator of multiple local small businesses serving the Topsail Island area. With firsthand experience living and working on the island, J.L. Wells provides practical, locally grounded insight into Topsail Island’s towns, beaches, and year-round coastal living.