MIAMI — As the world gears up to bid farewell to 2024 and welcome 2025, final preparations are underway to bring in the new year South Florida-style.

Monty Trainer, the chairman of the Greater Miami Host Committee, expressed excitement.

“Bringing Miami this kind of entertainment is absolutely fantastic,” he said.

10 p.m. report:

Organizers promise the biggest party ever held at Bayfront Park, featuring 28 musical acts including Willy Chirino, Arturo Sandoval, Chyno y Nacho, Gente de Zona, and others.

The night will also feature double the fireworks, which will be launched from two barges in Biscayne Bay. Miami Commissioner Joe Carollo has announced a “special treat” for attendees: the unveiling of the newly restored fountain at Bayfront Park at 12:15 a.m.

Officials from both Miami’s police and fire departments said they’re committed to ensuring the event’s safety but urge attendees to cooperate.

“We have all the bases covered for a very large event,” Miami Fire Rescue Chief Robert Hevia said.

They recommend using public transportation and remind attendees that coolers, weapons, and personal fireworks are prohibited.

“If you have a drone, leave it at home. This is not the time. We just want to make sure everyone’s having a safe time,” Miami Police Department Chief Manny Morales said.

And what is New Year’s Eve in downtown Miami without the iconic Big Orange? His warm smile and even warmer glow will rise up the side of the InterContinental Hotel to ring in the new year.

Steve Carpenter, known as Mr. Neon, and his team conducted a test run on Monday to ensure the Big Orange is ready for its moment.

“We get like 100,000 plus people. It’s amazing,” Carpenter noted.

Miami street closures:

“New Year’s Eve at Bayfront Park will take place on Tuesday, December 31, 2024, with event time beginning at 6:00 p.m. -1:00 a.m.There will be Law Enforcement presence at the park and the Biscayne Bay waterways throughout the day in preparation for the fireworks display. Fireworks will begin at midnight with a 15-minute firework exhibition from the Biscayne Bay.Based on traffic volume along Biscayne Boulevard from SE 2 Avenue to 5 Street and patron egress - the following traffic pattern will be implemented at approximately 10:00 p.m.:• Southbound traffic at Biscayne Boulevard & NE 6 Street will divert West.• Eastbound traffic on NE 2 Avenue & 5 Street may continue East to Port Blvd/Port of Miami or North on Biscayne Blvd. No Southbound traffic on Biscayne Boulevard from NE 5 Street.• Northbound traffic on Brickell Avenue will divert West at SE 7 & 5 Street. No Northbound on Brickell Avenue Bridge toward Biscayne Blvd Way.• It is recommended to utilize SW 2 Avenue to travel Northbound.• Northbound traffic at SE 3 Street from Biscayne Blvd Way, re-route to SE 2 Street at the fork.• Vehicular traffic leaving Center lots on Biscayne Blvd must exit West towards NE 2 Avenue.• All traffic exiting onto SE 2 Avenue from I-95 will be routed Southbound.• It is recommended to utilize NE 2 Avenue to travel Southbound.Miami Police officers will be assigned throughout the area, to assist with residents, patrons, and traffic control conditions.Attendees are reminded that if you see something, say something by calling (305) 358-7550 or dialing 9-1-1 for emergencies.”

— Miami Police Department statement

While the giant orange goes up, the giant anchor in downtown Fort Lauderdale will drop to mark the last 10 seconds of 2024.

Touted as one of the best New Year’s Eve celebrations in Florida, Fort Lauderdale with throw its usual block party.

There will be a DJ, a live band, food and fun games for kids.

Note the road closures along Southwest 2nd Street from 5th Avenue to 2nd Avenue as the adults party along Himmarshee to bring 2024 to a close.

South Florida prepares to ring in 2025 with big celebrations

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Liane Morejon

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