Wednesday, officials unveiled the 800-pound beach ball that will mark the beginning of 2010 in Panama City Beach. Staff members worked out all the kinks during their practice beach ball drop.

Bay County TDC president Dan Rowe said, "We expect to have well over 10,000 folks come out to the beach ball drop tomorrow night."

Tourism leaders hope to ring in a successful new year for Panama City Beach. Recently, Southwest Airlines announced it would be offering non-stop service to the nation's newest airport: The Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport.

Southwest is the presenting sponsor for the second annual beach ball drop in Panama City Beach. "So, it is the start of a countdown to the opening of a new airport and a new year," said Rowe.

But, before the big beach ball drops at midnight, there will be an earlier countdown for kids. At 8:30, children will be able to watch 7,000 inflatable beach balls drop on the streets of Pier Park.

Pier Park volunteer Perry Robinson said, "I think it's going to have a major effect. Major, major effect."

Families will also be able to enjoy live entertainment, a variety of performers and bounce houses. Southwest officials will be giving away airline tickets each hour to lucky guests. All that will turn Pier Park into the largest street festival in the region.

Panama City Beach resident John Burley said, "I think she's excited about that. Are you excited about that? She's excited about that!"

"Our tag line says it all. Real. Fun. Beach," said Rowe.

After seeing all the preparations underway Wednesday, locals and visitors say they are looking forward to Thursday's main event. The festivities will kick off at 5:30 on New Year's Eve.