Sarasota’s New Year’s Eve Pineapple On Display Downtown Thursday

SARASOTA, FL — Though the famous Sarasota Pineapple Drop isn’t happening this year, the pineapple will be lit up and displayed on the corner of Lemon Avenue and Main Street near Mattison’s City Grille on New Year’s Eve, according to a news release from Mattison’s.

The drop has been canceled because of the COVID-19 pandemic and social distancing measures, the restaurant said.

Since 2000, downtown Sarasota has welcomed the new year by dropping the festive fruit that represents Southwest Florida. The event typically draws 20,000 to 25,000 people to the downtown area, according to Mattison’s.

The pineapple will be on display on New Year’s Eve only. People are encouraged to take pictures and see the pineapple up close. Tyler Butler with Out and About Sarasota will be on hand on New Year’s Eve for photos and live video, Mattison’s said.

Mattison’s City Grille, located at 1 North Lemon Ave., will be open on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. New Year’s Eve will feature a special holiday menu, live entertainment with the Shift Change Band, festive drinks and extended seating outside the restaurant.

New Year’s Day will feature a special brunch menu from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. with bottomless mimosas for $15.

For more information, call visit mattisons.com.

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