Celebrate New Year's Eve: 8 Fun Ideas for Kids

My parents threw the BEST New Year parties. I still remember the millennium celebration like it was yesterday. Although they had all their friends there, I remember it was still awesome for us kids. We were allowed to stay stay up late and indulge in all of our favorite treats. There were games with prizes, dancing and the midnight countdown, if we could stay up that late. Oh, and of course, the best part of the night was my sparkly new outfit. I have to say, all the New Year Eve parties I’ve been to since being an adult, are not much more sophisticated. This year I have a sweet toddler who will be joining the celebrations and I got to thinking about how we could have a fun night filled with all our favorite people, little and big.

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1. Photo Booth

I feel like I don’t even need to elaborate. I mean, this is will keep guests and kids occupied for hours! You can make all kinds of fun photo booth backdrops for to fit your theme. If you want to really make it fun, set out some silly props, too.

Check out www.projectnursery.com for some nursery inspiration.

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2. Time Capsule

This will make such a great activity with the kids. A time capsule is a fun way to track their likes and dislikes see how much they have grown each year. Make it super simple by downloading this free printable.

Make sure you check out www.prettyprovidence.com for some tips on staying frugal!

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3. Play Games

There are a ton of games to play where the whole family is in on the fun. Just think minute-to-win-it style! And there is always New Years Eve themed bingo.

Visit www.theidearoom.net for more New Years Eve games and even more!

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4. Sparklers

I am certainly never going to be too old to enjoy sparklers, and they make a great and safe option instead of fireworks. They kids and adult will both love them and your definitely cannot have New Years celebration without them!

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5. Party Hats

Of course, it IS a party after all and I just love these DIY party hats. You can easily make it a fun craft project to do with the kids.

Head over to www.almostmakesperfect.com for more DIY projects and beautiful printables.

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6. Festive Food

Make some New Years Eve inspired food, like these delicious countdown cupcakes! They are so cute, and super simple to make.

Find more amazing recipes at www.somewhatsimple.com!

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7. Noise Makers

Make some DIY noise makers for to help ring in the new year. Remember, your don’t have to wait until midnight for the younger kiddos. Make yourself a count down timer and do it before the kids bedtime, that way they don’t miss out on all the fun.

For tons of amazing projects head over t0 www.learningcreatingliving.com.

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8. Get Your Friends Together

Invite your close friends and their kids over for the evening. Don’t stress about it being a “perfect night”. Just enjoy spending time together. Make it into a slumber party and throw all the kiddos in one room for a sleepover. Once the fun and games are over, settle them down with a movie and popcorn and steal away some time for adult conversation.

Ellice Vargas

I'm a British gal and mama to one sweet daughter. I love a good DIY project, interior design and photography. When I'm not writing for Life As Mama, I'm traveling as much as I can with my little family and filling up my camera roll with snapshots of our life.

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6. Create a Countdown Timer

Creating a countdown timer is a fantastic way to engage younger children in the excitement of New Year's Eve. Instead of waiting until midnight, parents can set a countdown for an earlier time that aligns with the children's bedtime, allowing them to participate in the celebration without staying up too late.

To make it even more fun, you can decorate a simple clock or timer with colorful markers and stickers. As the countdown progresses, involve the kids in fun activities or games, building anticipation for the moment when they can shout "Happy New Year!" together as a family.

7. Craft New Year’s Resolutions

Involving kids in crafting New Year’s resolutions can be a meaningful way to reflect on the past year and set positive intentions for the upcoming one. This activity encourages children to think about their goals and aspirations, fostering a sense of responsibility and personal growth.

Consider providing them with colorful paper and art supplies to create their resolutions visually. Whether it's learning a new skill, being kinder, or spending more time with family, this creative outlet can spark meaningful conversations and excitement about the year ahead.

8. Host a Family Dance Party

A family dance party is an excellent way to celebrate New Year's Eve while keeping the energy high and the atmosphere festive. Set up a playlist of upbeat songs that everyone loves, and encourage the kids to show off their best dance moves.

9. Make a New Year's Eve Snack Bar

Setting up a New Year's Eve snack bar can turn the evening into a culinary adventure for kids. Allow them to help choose and prepare a variety of snacks, from finger foods to sweet treats, making the celebration interactive and enjoyable.

Incorporate fun themes, like a "midnight snack" station with popcorn, cupcakes, and fruit skewers. This not only satisfies their taste buds but also encourages them to explore their creativity in the kitchen, making the night even more special.

8 Ways To Celebrate New Years Eve With Kids