December is full of fabulous family fun all month long, with one big celebration even falling on the very last day of the month. New Year’s Eve is a terrific time to gather with friends and family to reflect on 2025 while also looking forward to 2026 with hope and optimism. Whether celebrating earlier in the day or enjoying the time together down to the very last second, make a plan to commemorate the start of a brand new year full of opportunity and memory making together.

CELEBRATING EARLY
Having little ones means weighing the pros and cons of letting them stay up til the NYE ball drops at midnight. Doing so could potentially throw off sleep schedules and result in grumpy kiddos for several days (which is not an ideal way to start the new year). Consider what makes NYE so alluring in the first place—the anticipation, build-up, and of course, the countdown. Good news! Young ones can experience all of the feelings of NYE excitement earlier in the day. Many establishments like libraries, trampoline parks, and indoor play places throw “noon years” celebrations where kids can countdown to when the clock strikes noon!

Can’t make it to a noon year’s party out and about? Consider throwing a little countdown-style party at home. Add in special touches like party hats, a special sparkling cider toast, and sparklers to really set the vibe. As for the “10…9…8…” countdown, a quick search online for “Kid’s New Year’s Countdowns” shows tons of options, many of which feature popular kid’s characters, too. Kids don’t care if it’s kept simple, and a noon year’s style party at home is all of the fun, and none of the sleep deprivation, making it the perfect option for parents with younger kids.

PARTY LIKE IT’S 2026!
Some families love to be the hosts with the most, and having a NYE party can be a great way to cap a successful 2025. A little planning goes a long way; and having the most fun doesn’t have to cost the most money, either. Here are some budget-friendly tips on hosting a NYE party.

  • Set the Ambiance. Glitz and glamour is a great way to start a new year. Hit up the local dollar store and buy some inexpensive silver and gold gear like table covers, plates, napkins, balloons, streamers, etc. Kids may enjoy wearing glow bracelets and necklaces, too! Grab a poster board—party guests can sign it and share their resolutions.
  • Set the Table. Variety is the spice of life! And with New Year’s Eve parties falling during non-meal times, serving a spread of snack-style foods is sure to be a big hit. Some ideas include: dips, veggies, fruits, finger sandwiches, meatballs, pigs in a blanket, deviled eggs, flatbread pizza, mini cupcakes, a sundae bar, etc. Be sure to have some vegetarian and gluten-free options, so everyone can get their snack on. Have a tight budget? Ask friends and family to bring their favorite snack, or drink, to share.
  • Set an Itinerary. Socializing is a big part of having a party, but having a few little activities planned throughout the night can help make any adult gathering even more exciting. Using what is readily available within the home is a smart way to save money. Depending on the party guest’s interests, some fun ideas for activities include karaoke, minute-to-win-it type challenges, board or card games, etc. Having a variety of simple kid’s activities set up may also help keep littles busy, too. Examples include: LEGO building, creating beaded bracelets, coloring pages, video games, sensory bins, makeovers with temporary tattoos and hair color spray, and more!

Whether counting down early or late, with immediate family or a big group, New Year’s Eve is a great time to put the spotlight on spending time with those who matter most. Take time to reflect on everyone’s accomplishments made during the past 12 months while also resolving to put our collective best feet forward, to be our best selves, in the next year, too!

Have a safe and wonderful last day of 2025. We looks forward to spending another year with you and the rest of our wonderful community in 2026! Cheers!