· ·

Ring In the New Year with Kid-Friendly Celebrations in the Philadelphia Region

ByBrittany Delgado Hours

As the clock ticks closer to midnight on December 31st, many grown-ups eagerly await the big countdown. But who says kids have to miss out on the New Year’s Eve festivities? If your family is in the Philadelphia region, you have plenty of opportunities to celebrate earlier in the day—and still make it home for bedtime! Here are some of our favorite “Countdown to Noon”-style celebrations and more kid-friendly New Year’s events happening around town.

1. PlayArts Countdown to Noon

  • Date & Time: December 31, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
  • Location: PlayArts
  • What to Expect: Head to PlayArts in Fishtown for their lively Countdown to Noon party. This family-focused spot combines art, music, movement, and creativity, ensuring a hands-on, playful experience for the littlest revelers. The big moment? A countdown to 12:00 p.m. complete with confetti and cheers, so your kids get the full “midnight” excitement before naptime.

2. Children’s Department at Parkway Central Library

  • Date & Time: December 31, 11:00 a.m.
  • Location: Parkway Central Library (Children’s Department)
  • What to Expect: Wear your sparkles to join them for their Countdown to Noon!  There will be bubbles and enjoy making party hats, drinking bubbly apple juice, having a dance party and making a wish tree among other festivites to countdown to the New Year!

3. Please Touch Museum: NYE Before Nap Time

  • Date & Time: December 31, 9:00–11:30 a.m. or 1:00–3:30 p.m.
  • Location: Please Touch Museum
  • What to Expect: One of the most popular children’s museums in Philly hosts not just one, but two sessions of festivities so you can fit the countdown into your schedule. Confetti, music, and museum fun abound, plus your children will love exploring all the interactive exhibits before the big balloon drop. Tickets sell fast, so be sure to snag yours early!

4. Noon Years Eve at We Rock the Spectrum Kid’s Gym

  • Date & Time: December 31, 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
  • Location: We Rock the Spectrum Kid’s Gym
  • What to Expect: Swing, climb, bounce, and celebrate! We Rock the Spectrum is an all-inclusive gym designed for children of all abilities. During their Noon Years Eve bash, the kids can enjoy open play, arts and crafts, a festive countdown, and more.

5. Kith + Kin NYE Bash

  • Date & Time: December 31, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
  • Location: Kith + Kin
  • What to Expect: Grab your little ones and head to Kith + Kin for a party. There will be party favors, a special countdown to noon, and plenty of ways to keep toddlers and preschoolers engaged and entertained!

6. New Year’s Eve Countdown & Balloon Drop at Romp n’ Roll

  • Date & Time: December 31, Multiple sessions (9:30–10:30 a.m., 10:30–11:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.)
  • Location: Romp n’ Roll
  • What to Expect: Romp n’ Roll offers three separate slots to help your family work around nap times and lunch breaks. Each session features an epic balloon drop, play time in the gym, and festive music that will have kids dancing and jumping into the new year.

7. Kids’ New Year’s Eve Countdown + Craftivity at Franklin Square

  • Date & Time: December 31, 5:00 – 8:00 p.m.
  • Location: Franklin Square
  • What to Expect: As part of Franklin Square’s seasonal light show and mini-golf fun, this event includes a kids’ countdown and a craft station. Hang out for the colorful display, watch the lights dancing around the fountain, and enjoy seasonal treats.

8. New Year’s Eve Kids Countdown with Pop-Up Play at Cherry Street Pier

  • Date & Time: December 31, 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.
  • Location: Cherry Street Pier
  • What to Expect: Celebrate with Pop Up Play as they take over Cherry Street Pier for a kid-centric party complete with games, crafts, and live entertainment—all leading up to the 6:00 p.m. fireworks over the Delaware River. It’s a perfect evening event for kids to celebrate 2024 while still getting them home in time for bedtime.

Tips for a Fun and Stress-Free Celebration:

  1. Plan Ahead: Many of these events require tickets or reservations. Book in advance to secure your spot.
  2. Dress for the Weather: Some festivities (like Franklin Square and Cherry Street Pier) are outdoors or partially outdoors. Bundle up!
  3. Arrive Early: Parking can get tricky in the city, especially on holidays. Give yourself extra time to navigate.
  4. Bring Snacks: Even if the event includes treats, kids might still get hungry or thirsty while waiting for the countdown.

Whether you choose a morning countdown, an afternoon party, or an early evening fireworks show, there’s something for every family looking to celebrate the New Year with the little ones. Here’s to a happy, healthy 2024—may it sparkle with learning, laughter, and fun for you and your kiddos!

Similar Posts