Sarasota Ready For New Year's Eve Pineapple Drop

SARASOTA, FL — The New Year's Eve pineapple had already been hoisted into place as of Tuesday afternoon high atop a crane ahead of downtown Sarasota's annual celebration.

"Downtown Sarasota is all set for tonight’s New Year’s Eve celebration and pineapple drop," city officials confirmed. "Who’s planning to be here to ring in 2020?"

The annual Pineapple Drop takes place at Lemon Avenue and Main Street.

Genevieve Judge of the Sarasota Police Department said revelers should leave backpacks, coolers and alcohol at home.

"Some individuals celebrate the arrival of the New Year by firing a weapon into the air," she cautioned. "This is known as celebratory gunfire and is dangerous and illegal."

Judge said it is illegal to fire a weapon in the city of Sarasota. "Violators can expect to be arrested," Judge said.

If you will be drinking on New Year's Eve, plan to have a designated driver or to take a taxi.

A free ‘Tow to Go’ service will be available until 6 a.m. Thursday through AAA.

For Tow to Go in Sarasota, call 855-2-TOW-2-GO (1-855-286-9246).

Sarasota police plans to enforce a zero tolerance policy on drinking and driving.

The following road closures will be in effect for the annual Pineapple Drop on New Year's Eve:

• Lemon Avenue closed from 1st Street to Pineapple Avenue from 4 a.m. Tuesday until 9 a.m. Wednesday.
• State Street closed from Lemon Avenue to the Public Parking Garage from 4 a.m. Tuesday until 9 a.m. Wednesday.
• Central Avenue closed from 1st Street to the Roundabout from 4 a.m. Tuesday until 9 a.m. Wednesday.
• Main Street closed from Orange Avenue to Five Points Roundabout from 4 a.m. Tuesday until 9 a.m. Wednesday.
• Pineapple Avenue closed from 1st Street to the Roundabout until 9 a.m. Wednesday.
• 1st Street closed from Pineapple Avenue to Central Avenue until 9 a.m., Wednesday.

Vehicles not removed by the posted time will be towed at the owner’s expense.

For information on towed vehicles, call Upman’s Towing at 941-365-6823.