Carolina Beach New Year's Eve 2026: countdown and drone display
Island of Lights rings in 2027 on the Carolina Beach Boardwalk with live music, a countdown to midnight and two drone shows. The celebration alternates between Carolina Beach and Kure Beach each year, and 2026 is Carolina Beach's turn.
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Key details
- Date and time: Thursday, December 31, 2026, 8 PM to midnight Eastern Time
- Drone shows: 8:00 PM and midnight
- Location: Carolina Beach Boardwalk
- Cost: Free
- Organizer: Island of Lights, with Carolina Beach Parks and Recreation
What to expect
Live music on the Boardwalk, a ball-drop countdown and a drone display in the sky over the beach at 8 PM for families and again at midnight. Boardwalk bars and the Carolina Beach Pier run their own New Year's Eve parties, listed below.
Parking and getting there
The Boardwalk is busy on New Year's Eve. Town parking rules apply, so arrive early or plan a ride home.
Listings on Whats Up CB
- Island of Lights New Year's Eve Countdown and Drone Display · Thu, Dec 31 · Carolina Beach Boardwalk
- Karaoke New Year's Eve at Silver Dollar · Thu, Dec 31 · Silver Dollar
- New Year's Eve Party at Hurricane Alley's · Thu, Dec 31 · Hurricane Alley's
- Paddle ILM's New Year Party Animals Paddle · Sat, Jan 2 · Carolina Beach Public Kayak Launch Dinghy Dock (Sandpiper Lane)
Video from past years
Questions and answers
Where is the Carolina Beach New Year's Eve celebration?
On the Carolina Beach Boardwalk in 2026. The event alternates with Kure Beach, which hosted in 2025.
What time is the Carolina Beach NYE drone show?
8:00 PM and midnight on December 31, 2026.
Is the New Year's Eve countdown free?
Yes, the Island of Lights countdown is free to attend.
Are there other New Year's Eve parties nearby?
Yes. See the listings below and the full New Year's Eve events page.
Official information
Details can change; confirm with the organizer before you go.