10 Fun Activities for Kids to Celebrate the New Year

New Year's Eve is just around the corner, and it's the perfect occasion for families to come together, reflect on the past year, and kick off the new one with a bang! As the year draws to a close and the countdown to midnight begins, New Year's Eve is a special time for reflection, celebration, and making memories with loved ones. While it's often associated with parties and festivities for adults, it's also a wonderful opportunity for families to come together and create lasting traditions. Here are a few delightful New Year's Eve ideas for kids that will make the evening memorable for the whole family.

11/15/20244 min read

New Year’s Eve is a magical time for kids and families—a time to reflect on the past year and look forward to what’s ahead. But for little ones, staying entertained during the long wait for the countdown can be a challenge. Whether you’re planning a family-friendly New Year’s Eve party or just a fun night at home, here are 10 fun activities for kids to ring in the New Year in style!

1. Countdown Balloon Pop 🎈

This activity keeps kids engaged and excited all evening long! Fill balloons with small surprises (like candy or activity ideas) and label each balloon with an hour. As time passes, let the kids pop the corresponding balloon to reveal a special treat or activity until midnight. It’s a fun way to count down together!

Pro Tip: If midnight is too late, set an earlier “midnight” countdown for the kiddos.

2. DIY Party Hats and Noisemakers 🎉

Let kids unleash their creativity by crafting their own New Year’s Eve party hats and noisemakers. Provide materials like paper, glue, glitter, markers, and stickers. For noisemakers, fill paper towel rolls or plastic containers with beads or dry rice. Kids will love showing off their creations when the clock strikes midnight!

3. Glow-in-the-Dark Dance Party 💃

Turn down the lights, hand out glow sticks, and crank up some kid-friendly tunes. A glow-in-the-dark dance party adds excitement to the night and gets everyone moving. You can even create a mini disco ball effect by using string lights or a flashlight with a spinning mirror.

4. New Year’s Resolution Jar ✨

New Year’s is a great time to reflect and set goals, even for kids! Have them write (or draw) their hopes, dreams, and goals for the upcoming year. Place these in a decorated “Resolution Jar” they can revisit throughout the year. It’s a meaningful way to make New Year’s special while encouraging positive habits.

5. Midnight (or Early) Countdown Toast 🥂

Kids love feeling like part of the celebration, so prepare a New Year’s toast just for them! Serve sparkling apple cider, grape juice, or a fun “mocktail” in plastic champagne flutes. Let them clink glasses and shout “Happy New Year!” like the grown-ups.

Mocktail Recipe Idea: Mix sparkling apple cider with orange juice and garnish with a slice of fruit.

6. New Year’s Eve Scavenger Hunt 🔍

Design a scavenger hunt with New Year’s-themed clues. For example, hide items like party hats, confetti, or small trinkets around the house and give the kids simple riddles or instructions to follow. This activity keeps them moving and entertained while you prep for the countdown.

7. Family Movie Marathon 🎬

Turn New Year’s Eve into a cozy family movie night! Choose kid-friendly movies with festive themes, and set up a snack bar with popcorn, candy, and drinks. You can even build a blanket fort for an extra-special movie-watching experience.

Kid-Friendly Movie Ideas:

Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa (with the New Year’s countdown scene!)

Frozen

The Secret Life of Pets

8. Photo Booth Fun 📸

Set up a simple photo booth with props like hats, glasses, and signs that say “Happy New Year!” or “2024.” Kids can strike silly poses, and you can capture adorable memories to look back on. All you need are some printed props, a backdrop (e.g., a sheet or string lights), and a smartphone or camera.

9. Craft a Time Capsule 🕰️

Help your kids create a time capsule to open next New Year’s Eve! Have them include drawings, photos, notes about their favorite memories from the year, or even predictions for the next year. Seal it in a box or jar and store it somewhere safe until next year’s celebration.

10. Balloon Drop at Midnight 🎈

Bring the excitement of New Year’s Eve parties to your home with a DIY balloon drop! Tape a plastic tablecloth filled with balloons to the ceiling and release it when the countdown ends. Kids will love the burst of color and fun as the balloons fall all around them.

Pro Tip: Use biodegradable balloons to make your celebration eco-friendly.

Make New Year’s Eve Unforgettable

These activities are sure to make New Year’s Eve a magical and memorable experience for your kids. Whether you’re crafting party hats, popping balloons, or sipping on sparkling mocktails, the key is to create a celebration filled with fun, laughter, and family togetherness.

Here’s to a Happy New Year filled with joy, love, and unforgettable moments! 🎆