Busch Gardens is celebrating the New Year with special entertainment and fireworks nightly, December 27-31. You can give 2009 the ultimate "wild" welcome with coasters in the dark, including SheiKra - America's only dive coaster. Hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. (until 1:00 a.m. on December 31). This event is included with daily park admission or a Passport membership.

The Outback Bowl Parade and pep rally by participating college cheerleaders. along 7th Avenue in Ybor City is a huge celebration featuring high school and participating college bands, professional-quality floats, and more. Parade begins 5:30 p.m., with a fantastic fireworks finale at 8:15 p.m. (Please note: No coolers, glass containers or open alcohol allowed on streets.)

Make a splash on the social scene this New Year's Eve at The Florida Aquarium, where you will see and be seen as you enjoy live entertainment, great food, complimentary beer and wine, underwater wonders and the best fireworks display in Tampa. Tickets are $75 for members before December 23; $80 general admission before December 7; $90 general admission before December 21; and, $100 after December 21. Call 813-273-4000 for further information.

Light Up Tampa Bay at Channelside on New Year's Eve with live entertainment and a midnight fireworks show and ball drop along the downtown Tampa waterfront. Before the fireworks, enjoy the numerous restuarants and night spots at Channelside. Call 813-223-4250 for more information.

Lowry Park Zoo will host Radio Disney with a countdown to noon during their Noon Year's Eve celebration from 9:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 31.