As a former kid, I’ve had boots-on-the-ground experience feeling left out on New Year’s Eve. All the fun started after I was settled down for a long winter’s nap! Come to think of it, that hasn’t changed much … anyway! I’m sympathetic to the under-20 set’s lack of New Year’s celebrations.
While kiddos can’t make the midnight champers toast due to their age, there’s still plenty of appropriate alternatives right here in Austin. Each of these daytime NYE options provide fun activities as well as a way to tucker the youths out. Nothing starts the new year off better than a well-kept bedtime – for both the young and old.
Please remember to double check these events before attending, as time, capacity, and venue are all subject to change – as are we all, right? There’ll also be guidance on what ages each event is appropriate for, so make sure the fun fits your kiddo’s needs. See y’all in 2025!
Foodie Kids New Year’s Eve Party
3818 Far West #107, foodie-kids.com
Feat. a lesson on how to make confetti cake balls, brie & cranberry bites, midnight melt fondue, sugar cookie wands, and a countdown crunch. $80.
Noon Year’s Eve Storytime Celebration at Yarborough Branch Library
2200 Hancock, library.austintexas.gov
Feat. a special storytime, artmaking, noisemakers, bubbles, and a balloon drop. Free.
Noon Year’s Eve Party at Terrazas Branch Library
1105 E. César Chávez St., library.austintexas.gov
Feat. crafting, dancing, snacks, and a balloon drop. Free.
Thinkery NYE Celebration
1830 Simond, thinkeryaustin.org
Feat. a balloon drop, scarf drop, and festive crafts. $35 for non-members.
Noon Year’s Eve at Pinballz
All Pinballz locations, pinballz.com
Feat. a balloon drop, arts & crafts, arcade games, and prizes. $15 standard, $20 VIP that includes 1,000 bonus tickets.
Noon Year’s Eve Party at Twin Oaks Branch Library
1800 S. Fifth, library.austintexas.gov
Feat. a dance party storytime, festive crafts, bubbles, and a balloon drop. Free.
This article appears in December 27 • 2024.
