Bonus Article: New Years Eve traditions From Around The World
Arizona doesn’t do a plain old ball drop – it drops what makes the state, well, Arizona. From a giant pinecone in the pines to a taco in the desert, here are four quirky New Year’s Eve drops around the state and what to expect if you want to join the countdown.
Flagstaff – The Great Pinecone Drop
If you want literal small-town spectacle with big-time charm, Flagstaff’s Great Pinecone Drop is the place. Each New Year’s Eve thousands gather outside the historic Weatherford Hotel to watch a six-foot, LED-lit pinecone descend from the hotel’s balcony. The event usually features music, food vendors and multiple drops (noon, 10 p.m. and midnight) so families and night owls can both take part. It began in 1999 as a nod to Flagstaff’s ponderosa pine forests and has become a regional tradition that draws visitors from across Arizona.
“Counting down to welcome the New Year is a cherished tradition around the world, and the residents of Flagstaff and visitors who enjoy coming here for the holidays recognize that few places have captured the spirit of the holiday like Sam Green and Henry Taylor at The Weatherford Hotel,” said Trace Ward, Executive Director of Discover Flagstaff.
Fun fact: Sam Green, co-owner of The Weatherford Hotel, crafted the first Great Pinecone by decorating a large trash can from the basement of the hotel, which they lowered from the roof more or less on a whim to celebrate the hotel’s anniversary. Nowadays the Great Pinecone is a much fancier decoration, and on any given night during the holiday season, you can see it hanging over the intersection in anticipation of New Year’s Eve.
Tucson – The Taco Drop
Tucson will celebrate New Year’s Eve 2025 with a party at Jacome Plaza, located off Church Ave. and Pennington St. 
The night will feature live music, headlined by the Lucky Devils Band, and a unique Silent Disco presented by Tucson Federal Credit Union. Attendees can enjoy food trucks and beer stations while waiting for the midnight touchdown, when a giant taco will be lowered from the sky to ring in 2025. The celebration will conclude with a fireworks display.
Show Low — Deuce of Clubs Drop
Show Low leans into local lore: the town’s memorable name allegedly comes from a poker game decided by the deuce of clubs. To celebrate, Show Low lowers a giant illuminated deuce-of-clubs card at midnight. This year’s festivities include music and entertainment, fire pits, games and activities for the kids (with prizes!), a photo booth, party favors and fireworks at midnight.
Prescott – The Boot Drop
The Whiskey Row Boot Drop will return to historic downtown Prescott on December 31, 2025, marking its 15th year as Northern Arizona’s signature New Year’s Eve celebration. Thousands are expected to gather as a six-foot illuminated cowboy boot descends from the Palace Building’s 40-foot flagpole, continuing a beloved tradition that gained international attention last year when CNN broadcast the event worldwide.
“It was incredible to see our small-town featured on an international stage,” Producer Matt Brassard said. “We’re thrilled to continue sharing Prescott’s unique charm and western heritage with the world.”
The milestone event will once again feature two boot drops – one at 10 p.m. to align with the New York City ball drop and another at midnight – both paired with fireworks displays.
Live music from Phoenix-based band The Instant Classics, along with food vendors, carnival games, and prizes, will keep the celebration going throughout the evening.
Keep in mind:
These downtown gatherings draw crowds – dress in layers, arrive early for good viewing spots, and plan for limited parking and road closures. And because some details (themes, sponsors, exact time/location) can change year to year, verify the event’s official page or local tourism site before heading out.
Choosing the right drop
Want family-friendly and early? Flagstaff’s 10 p.m. (or even the noon drop) and Prescott’s 10 p.m. option are perfect. Looking for a late-night, music-driven celebration with craft vendors? Tucson delivers. Craving small-town charm and local lore? Drive up to Show Low and bring your camera. Most of these events are free or low-cost, though some offer VIP ticketed options with food and reserved viewing – check the host city’s official event page before you go for parking notes, road closures and exact times.
Lots of venues around the Valley – like the Children’s Museum of Phoenix and area resorts – are hosting their own NYE celebrations with balloon drops, music and fun to bring in 2026 like only Arizona know show!
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