St. George’s rings in 2026 with a uniquely Bermudian countdown: the Onion Drop. On New Year’s Eve 2025, King’s Square becomes the island’s official celebration hub with live music, local food vendors, a kids’ fun zone, karaoke, and the illuminated onion lowering at midnight beside historic Towne Hall. Organizers confirm a free, family‑friendly street party from 8:00 p.m. to 1:30 a.m., led by the WallStreet Band, emcee Jah Simmons, and DJ Nadanja, with the nation’s countdown at 11:55 p.m. and festivities continuing well past the stroke of twelve.
Date, place, and what to expect
- When and where: Tuesday, December 31, 2025, 8:00 p.m. to 1:30 a.m., in King’s Square, St. George’s, Bermuda’s UNESCO World Heritage town; the event is free with free parking signposted for the evening.
- Headliners and hosts: Live set by the WallStreet Band from 8:30 p.m.; karaoke hour hosted by DJ Nadanja from 11:00 p.m.; emcee Jah Simmons guides the countdown and keeps energy high through 1:30 a.m.
- The countdown: Gather at Towne Hall by 11:55 p.m. for the official island countdown and the Onion Drop, the signature moment that ushers in 2026.
Why an onion
- A national symbol: Bermuda’s Onion Drop honors the island’s agricultural heritage. In the 1800s Bermuda onions were exported to the U.S. in huge quantities and became an emblem of local identity, still echoed in the affectionate nickname “onion” for natives.
- A tradition with a twist: Like the Times Square ball, St. George’s lowers a giant illuminated onion at midnight, a homegrown countdown that locals and visitors now regard as the nation’s official New Year moment.
Nightly schedule and features
- From 8:00 p.m.: Food, beverage, and memorabilia vendors open; Kids Fun Zone activities begin; the square starts to fill.
- 8:30 p.m.: WallStreet Band performs contemporary hits and classics, drawing big, multigenerational crowds.
- 11:00 p.m.: Karaoke with DJ Nadanja invites brave voices on stage before the final countdown.
- 11:55 p.m.: Gather at Towne Hall for the official countdown and Onion Drop; cheers and fireworks ambience accompany the illuminated onion’s descent.
- After midnight: DJ Nadanja spins until 1:30 a.m.; families, couples, and friend groups linger in the square as the first hour of 2026 unfolds.
Family‑friendly and free
- No tickets required: The Corporation of St. George’s emphasizes that the NYE party is free to attend, with free parking zones and wayfinding in the Old Towne to ease arrival.
- Space for kids: A dedicated Kids Fun Zone and vendors selling treats, light‑up toys, and face painting make the night easy for families. Past lineups list local favorites like Ashley’s Lemonade and Bermuda Cupcake Company among food stalls.
Culture and community
- The Old Towne’s stage: St. George’s is the island’s oldest town, and King’s Square provides a charming setting for live music and the Onion Drop, with restaurants and historic lanes framing the celebration.
- Community pride: The mayor and local leaders describe the night as a unifying, intergenerational party that reflects St. George’s heritage and Bermuda’s joyous spirit. UNESCO grant support underscores the cultural significance of hosting the national countdown in the World Heritage setting.
Practical tips for an easy night
- Arrive early: Get to the square by 8:00–8:30 p.m. for easier parking, closer vantage points near the stage, and time to explore vendors before the late‑night rush.
- Dress for the breeze: Evenings can be mild with maritime breezes; bring a light layer and comfortable shoes for standing and dancing.
- Where to stand: The best view of the Onion Drop is near Towne Hall; arrive at that area by 11:45 p.m. to secure a clear sightline for the countdown.
- After‑midnight plans: Taxis operate late, but demand spikes after 1:00 a.m. Consider booking return transport ahead or walking to nearby pickup points just outside the main square.
Make a festive day of it
- Afternoon in St. George’s: Wander the UNESCO‑listed lanes, step into St. Peter’s Church, and browse Water Street shops before an early dinner at a harborside restaurant.
- Pair with Christmas Walkabout: If timing allows, combine a December visit with the Bermuda National Trust Christmas Walk in St. George’s earlier in the month for another candlelit, heritage‑rich evening.
What the press says
- Big, warm crowds: Local coverage reports “hundreds” packing the square for “top‑drawer entertainment,” with families dancing to WallStreet Band and a jubilant scene during the onion’s descent.
- A signature scene: Newsrooms and island guides regularly frame the Onion Drop as Bermuda’s most original New Year countdown and the centerpiece of the Old Towne’s holiday calendar.
Accessibility and safety
- Wayfinding and facilities: Organizers signpost parking and amenities; keep to marked areas and follow instructions from stewards for safe crowd flow, especially in the minutes before and after midnight.
- Family comfort: Pack ear protection for young children if standing near speakers during the band and DJ sets; plan snack and restroom breaks before 11:30 p.m. to be back in position for the drop.
Verified essentials at a glance
- Event: New Year’s Eve in St. George’s — Onion Drop at King’s Square.
- Date and time: Dec 31, 2025, 8:00 p.m.–1:30 a.m.; official countdown 11:55 p.m.; Onion Drop at midnight.
- Entertainment: WallStreet Band live from 8:30 p.m.; karaoke with DJ Nadanja at 11:00 p.m.; emcee Jah Simmons; DJ Nadanja after midnight.
- Family‑friendly: Free entry, Kids Fun Zone, local food and memorabilia vendors, free parking guidance.
- Cultural note: The Onion Drop honors Bermuda’s historic onion trade and identity; the island’s official countdown takes place at Towne Hall.
Claim a spot near Towne Hall, grab a lemonade or warm treat, and count down with the island as the shining onion descends over King’s Square. With live music, community spirit, and a tradition found nowhere else on earth, New Year’s Eve in St. George’s is the most Bermudian way to welcome 2026 — plan early, arrive ready, and let the Onion Drop light the first moments of the year.
